In a wide ranging talk at the Develop Conference today that looked at the founding of his company and the making of its games flOw and Flower, thatgamecompany's Jenova Chen devoted some time to rant about a topic close to his heart.
Namely, that games just aren't trying hard enough to emotionally engage with players and that their content aren't mature enough.
Thatgamecompany's PlayStation Network games have been widely praised for their short, subtle and emotive content.
Despite being a gamer all his life - and a games development student no less - Chen said that the content of these games came about from his eventual dissatisfaction with mainstream games.
"I never see that sense of thrill any more in today's games," he said.
KnowTechie writes: Looking for some games to play that are meant to be a relaxing experience? We've got you covered with 10 games worth checking out.
Great recommendations, I love all the games listed that I've played so far. Going a bit stir-crazy with the constant WFH during this time. Thanks!!
Nelia writes: "Spring is nearly here and to celebrate we've put together a list of some of the best Springtime video games for the upcoming season."
WTMG's Leo Faria: "Flower is a gorgeous, well-crafted and relaxing game, but I have to say, I don’t get the massive love towards it. Its “story”, if you can call it that, is far from deep and thought-provoking as some say it is, its duration is borderline insulting for its asking price, and it just doesn’t motivate you to replay it after you’re done with its half a dozen levels. Sadly, Flower isn’t as meaty as it should be. A fair point in a way, given it’s a game about plants…"
I honestly can't believe such a nice article hasn't had a single comment. While a pathetic article involving slanderous and juvenile opinion gets more attention.
Yes, I agree with what the gentle said and his personal view of the situation. However, he off-handedly pointed out the problem when he mentioned "Mainstream" games.
It's a business as much as we like to think otherwise. Popularity is the name of this game, and while some games shine a glimmer of hope on the aspect of games being more like books and less like toys, its more an more evident that is not what the public wants.
The public wants their sequels, they want uninvolved 2D experiences. They want a roller coaster, a two minute joyride of pure adrenalin that ends early enough that they want to wander over to the next roller coaster.
I know I don't speak of all gamers with this rant. I just know it's true that I want games to start treating me like an adult. Not with violence and crude language, but with emotional depth and unique experiences.
grown-up ?? sorry what's that ? isn't drowning in fantasy the main reason most of people are playing games ?
While it's true some devs aren't trying hard enough ...well this comment was mis placed IMO
Lost Odyssey is one game that has a lot of emotional depth. Really a great game and all RPG fans should play it.
or
grow up and get a life.
what else is there to say?
games are now equal and better than, movies, tv shows, books and magazines. Its really not that difficult to find what youre looking for if you ask around. just dont go by gaming websites as they have a conflict of interest with thier stocks in game companies and advertising dollars to secure on thier website.