Have we missed simplicity in games ?
In recent years the video game industry has witnessed tremendous development in terms of graphics story and gameplay mechanics But with this development an important question arises Have we missed simplicity in games To answer this question lets take a look at several aspects of ancient and modern games
Old and simple games
Games in the past relied heavily on simplicity in design and gameplay mechanics The graphics were limited and the technical capabilities were less which made the developers focus on providing a straightforward and easytounderstand gaming experience Games like PacMan Tetris and Super Mario Bros feature simple mechanics that anyone can understand and start playing without needing a lengthy guide or training.
- Simple Control In older games controls were often simple limited to a few buttons and movements
- Clear Objectives Objectives in older games were clear and straightforward such as collecting points or reaching the end of the level
- Ease of Access Anyone regardless of age or experience can easily enjoy these games
Modern games and complexity
In contrast modern games have become more complex and sophisticated Games now offer massive open worlds complex stories and stunningly realistic graphics While this advancement provides an immersive and exciting experience it can make these games more difficult to get into for new players or those looking for a simple and easy experience
- Modern games often require mastering many different buttons and movements which can be frustrating for some
- Multiple Objectives where in Modern games offer multiple and varied objectives which can sometimes be confusing.
Need for time investment Many modern games take a long time to fully enjoy which can be difficult for people with limited time to play.
Have we missed simplicity?
not necessarily Although many modern games are complex there is a growing movement towards returning to the simple roots of gaming Indie games often revive oldfashioned simplicity focusing on simple mechanics and innovative ideas Games like Celeste Stardew Valley and Among Us offer simple yet fun and challenging gaming experiences
While many modern games have become more complex simplicity has not completely disappeared There are still many games that focus on providing a simple and accessible gaming experience So it can be said that we have not completely lost simplicity in games but rather it has become part of the rich diversity of the current gaming industry In the end every player can find what suits him whether simple or complex games.
In my opinion, the new ones are better "clearly" but I miss the time when I didn't know them and there were only the simple and basic games "the best times"
Controllers have more buttons than previous generations and that offers the player more options to play the game. It's not 'Required' but it might seem like a waste of a button if it isn't utilized.
Thankfully there is an indie scene that sticks to basic controls while trying to keep the genre of games they create fresh/relevant with the current times.
It's sometimes tough because on a day I require mental stimulation in a game, those crazy button inputs are almost exactly what I need, whereas on days where I just want to zone out I often turn on a low input button/simple game and just relax while playing it. Different speeds for different moods I suppose but I am glad both are available to me.
Yes, modern games can easily get complicated with the over input but that doesn't mean 'simple' games have been left by the wayside in favor of more input, it just means that now these 'simple' games have a niche to fill that certain gamers are content with.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts!