@@Scyrenus Thank you! I j just want to be myself and be honest. I want conversation. A community. Thank you so much for following and joining this journey.
Nostalgia’s a funny thing. Playing video games in the past still had their issues and pros and cons. If you think games aren’t fun, there’s not passionate devs anymore, or creative anymore, you should probably broaden your horizons. Having so many games at our fingertips gives you a wide range of variety to check out. Especially in the indie space
Oh yes I know. Nostalgia can be used in a way to complain or appreciate. I like to use it as an engine to appreciate. And Thankfully I have broadened my horizons. I was never just an annual madden or cod player. I grew up playing many different types of games and even now. There are so so many amazing indie games out there. If I had mentioned more about the indie space, then the video would be an hour long. So I thought I would save that for another time. There are plenty of passionate devs out there. Just like writers and filmmakers. Games like Stardew and Animal Well were made by a single dev.
I agree to a certain degree, I believe that there are games coming out today can still have the passion and love that they once had 20 years ago, you just gotta look for them.
I agree! You do have to look for them. My video was mainly focus on the big shifts in gaming that I think have changed gaming as a whole. Not to say games today are bad. There are plenty of dev teams out there that are passionate and love what they do. You do have to look for them. Thankfully the internet does make it a little easier to find some underrated games or games that might be overlooked and lost in the hype.
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yeah, 100% and it's honestly those hidden games that are the better ones, and the AAA games aren't that great. You made a lot of major points in your video and said everything that me and my brothers talk about.
Same can be said for any streaming services. Love how you explain. Two aspect that you left out was the death of campaign mode and split screen. My son and I have to buy two games and two console to play together. Family playing together has died and not fun.
I am talking mostly about first person shooters. Like call of duty and halo. Those seems to not allow single player storyline. If they do they are very short. I play games not to go against someone else but just decompressed. So I just play old games
Yes! I totally agree. Thank you for adding this. When I was editing this video I felt I left out so much. Indie games, campaign modes and split screen/couch co-op games. I do think the switch was the best thing to come out since the Wii. I brought my families together to play overcooked, Mario kart, super smash brothers, etc. It was a blast to relive that classic feeling of having everyone around one tv experiencing the game together! Thankfully Nintendo seems to hold on to that part of gaming and keeping it alive.
@@popculture3394 The older systems just had more to offer for less, there is less of a focus on FUN. I remember at one time when there were so many games that didn't take themselves to seriously, nothing but good clean fun, the days when physical media was about having a collection of great games to play.
I think slowing down really is the key. I've only played a handfull of game this year, all physical copy, all on switch, and I'm having a great time. Hollow knight, Tears of the kingdom, Sea of stars, Tactics Ogre Reborn, quality over quantity.
YES! Thankfully I have always been a slow gamer. Never have liked to rush through games. Same with my reading with books. I love taking my time. Being patient and enjoying the journey. Not rushing toward the destination. I think I have only played a few games this year. Baldurs Gate 3. Alan Wake 2 and now Witcher 3.
@@zaklesiou I think we are wise in the fact we don't fall for it anymore. I'm tired of getting lied to by these companies. I want to support the smaller companies that truly care and create out of love and passion.
Well said. Most modern games are designed around psychological tactics for addiction over the fun or experience of playing. Stimulation overload is easy to fall into and hard to get out of.
Pretty much agree with all the points you raised, very well said. 👍 More creators need to highlight the differences between videogames created by passionate designers, and "videogames" designed by giant corporations like EA, Ubisoft, Blizzard, etc. The corporate titles might appear at a glance to be a videogame but actually can be better described as a product. Someone else actually coined the term "addiction loop" to describe some of the endless forever games that keep milking people for money with endless skins, DLC, battle passes, etc. Part of the problem is that people confuse an addicting game with fun. A fun game is a joy and can be put down after an hour or two. An addictive game, aka addiction loop, makes people develop the habit of constantly logging into it, playing it, and hopefully constantly spending money on it. Alan Wake 2 and Fortnight might both be classified as "videogames" but to me they could not be more different things. Citizen Kane and pr0n0graphy both use film as a medium but one is a masterpiece of film and the other a steaming pile of trash designed to fry one's brain. I stay away from the latter and also stay the hell away from the Live Services/Forever Games/Addiction Loops, whatever the hell you wanna call them. More Alan Wake 2, less Fortnight! Sorry, didn't mean to write this much, thank you for reading!
YES! I don't think I even brought that up...."Addiction". Goodness what a great point. We have become addicted to logging in due to FOMO. Just to get that little weapon skin or a few extra v-bucks. Thankfully my wife and I have great self control when we play those type of games. We pretty much play Fortnite. But that is only when our friend can get on (who now has a child). So he can get on maybe once a week for an hour at a time if that. I would much rather engage with a deep thought provoking story than mindless addicted "fun". Great points. Thank you for sharing! I gotta ask now. What is your favorite game and why?
@@Thomas.R.Howell Just kinda threw Fortnite out there since it's a very famous live service/forever game, but it's certainly not the worst example. Though I haven't played it myself I've heard that despite everything it can be a fun time in certain amounts, so I wouldn't fault anyone for spending some time with it. And hey if both you and your wife are able to enjoy it responsibly, then it's all good! Some of the worst examples of predatory monetization tend to be found in mobile games, which is more what I had in mind when railing against addiction loops. As for *my* favorite game? Really hard to choose just one, so to keep it simpler lets stick to titles from the past three months: Astrobot! That game just makes me smile. (: And a quick honorable mention goes to Mario & Luigi Brothership. Really enjoying it. Despite some technical hiccups it's still a good time!
I realized alot of my favourite games were story driven. It took me a while to realise sometimes I skipped past gameplay parts to get the next part of the story. I got to a place where I can now appreciate books for the narratives and games for the gameplay. I appreciate it when a game does a story well or smartly using player input in a way a book could never. But I feel like if I'm looking for a game these days, it needs to be weird or pushing something novel in terms of genre or a master class in narative. I also love it when indie games try something weird or bizzare. (Games like Webfishing, wobbledogs or noita).I feel like the industry doesn't reward creativity as much anymore. If anyone needs a good puzzle game try out Case of the Golden Idol .The way it involves story building is something only a game as medium can do!
Have you tried Alan Wake 2? Talk about a game that is a masterclass in narrative and pushes the industry for the better. Takes risks. Goodness so so good. That is something I didn't even really touch on. Because the gaming industry is what it is now, I think the indie space is able to shine even more. I have heard of Golden idol! Heard great things! Sounds like a game my wife and I need to try. She LOVES puzzles.
That's exactly how I've been playing games the last couple of years. I pick 1-2 games out on my steam Wishlist when there is a sale, games which I have been anticipating, and play them until completion. I'm a completionist and I usually spend 40+ hours on large, difficult rpgs/immersive sims (right now it's Sekiro). Now I struggle far less with the problem of over consumption than I used to. It also helps that I have zero tolerance for a game I only half enjoy. The Outer Worlds started off strong, but I put it down after 20 hours when I realized I wasn't having fun or being challenged. It's important to step away from those experiences too, especially if you work a full time job and have non-gaming responsibilities. Cheers.
I love this! I am totally fine just playing through 1 or 2 games a year and fully experiencing them! And it is OKAY to step away and uninstall a game you don't like. SO what is the internet says it is a must play or one of the best games of all time! If you don't like it. That is OKAY. Cheers!
It's hard watching my kids go through the Battle Pass cycle. I often wonder if they are having fun anymore. If I ever do have time for gaming, I'll put in an old Madden or MLB The Show disc and play a couple games, and I'm content. Haha!
Kids these days will never get to experience the true magic of those single player games. Discovering new things and uncovering secrets on their own! Without a wallet. It's also something I didn't touch on. As adults we tend to go back to our comfort games or games that have quick 10-15 minute matches rather than get into an immersive single player game. That takes too much energy and commitment so we fall back on these quick matches.
@@Thomas.R.Howell I struggle spending money on something I know I can't commit the time to. I would love to purchase and play a full, immersive game. It just isn't a priority for me, but I totally understand and appreciate those who do! ☺️ Another method of storytelling that I feel isn't appreciated by many.
@@christophervehon9554 Exactly. So when you spend $70 on a game and it's barley finished or launches broken...that $70 leaving your wallet feels even worse.
I agree when it comes to the game industry making a game out of manipulating the customer to spend the most money and the downfall of physical gaming. I disagree when it comes to games being released in a complete state. In that aspect it’s not that different from modern broken games. Games back then were just as broken, probably more so, players just had to accept that fact, they couldn’t demand changes because there could be none.
That is a good point. Also maybe because TH-cam and social media wasn't as big back then. So there wasn't a lot of attention being brought to the negative aspects of those old games.
@ Witcher 3 is actually a good example of this. If I remember correctly, it was completely broken at launch and it ended up having a similar journey to that of Cyberpunk 2077 (by this I mean both games being fixed through many patches).
Another awesome video! I got a switch, but have never really been able to get into video games. The only game I've finished is BOTW actually, but I do want to focus on one and try to enjoy it. Keep it up!
I also feel (I'm 40) that games are too vast and large. Ya, all the options are great, but there doesn't seem to be an actual start and finish. I don't have hours of time to put in to a game. Before, it was 10 to 20 hours of game play. Than 40 to 60. Then 120 to infinite (or it feels that way). It acts as a deterint to want to invest any time into a game when I don't know if there is an end to be found. But that's probably just a me/generational thing. But, definitely one of the reasons I rarely pick up a controller anymore.
I agree! I didn't even mention it because if I did my video would've been 2 hours long. I would much rather play in a world that is handcrafted. A pond that is an ocean deep rather than an ocean that is as deep as a puddle. Many Ubisoft games have this idea of more is better. bigger is better. But that is so not always the case. Larger worlds have more busy work. Less quality and intentionality. Metro Exodus is a great game that is a semi open world game that gives enough freedom before it gets stale. In fact it is one of the most immersive games ever. Gone are the days of a good linear game with a deep story.
Nice video. I haven’t done a good single player game in a while and sometimes feel dissuaded from doing so because of the time commitment they take. It took me almost 2 months to play through the story Red Dead Redemption 2, playing almost every day. I think that’s one of the best games ever made.
That games was a masterpiece. A game that I think teaches us to slow down and enjoy the little details. It's a slow burn of a story with such natural progression and development.
It annoys me so much that studios hype releases up and then release an unfinished game it loses consumer trust in what you're releasing. How is money mismanaged so badly that a studio needs the money from pre-orders of the game to finish making said game.
What I did when I realised I was buying too many games was that I returned to an older laptop of mine and it helped me think twice before buying (because pc requirements and all of that). Now all I play is Elder scrolls: Oblivion, Stardew Valley and Undertale. Its genuinely great, since I have been doing this since I was 15 (3 years ago) I haven't been able to really experience high end games but I have no regrets as I still love these games if not more from when I started playing it.
Those games are great! Who needs high end games when you have deep experiences in those three games? Stardew is amazing! Still need to try Undertale. Heard amazing things about that.
@@Thomas.R.Howell you are able to gift , sell and trade with them. 💯 Your ownership. I remember reading about PS/audible pulling movies and books from their libraries even after people had bought them.
@@Thomas.R.Howell even now with the touch of a key, your physical copy will just be a glorified paperweight you really only own it for as long as they want you to
I miss the days when you could just pop in the disc (or cartridge) and just go. Now I have to try and boot up Skyrim 3 or 4 times because I get an error message that says that it took too long to load. As a great gaming TH-cam channel once said, “I just wanna eat breakfast and play some Skyrim.”
I've been thinking about this quite a bit recently, I don't think it's nostalgia, games just aren't as good nowadays. It feels like the developers are 'abusing the meta' to get the most out of our money/time instead of focusing on the love
i really am focusing on one game per console at a time, in addition to online multiplayer games that i only play with friends. right now i'm delving into kingdom come deliverance, and i'm having a blast with its realistic approach to its specific real world setting. i played a lot of middling games this year, and this really takes the cake. also playing ace attorney on my 3ds and final fantasy tactics wotl on my psp. it's a great shifting triangle, and one of my methods of avoiding the sense of chore. deep diving, and clearly trashing games that don't feel fun.
Left video gaming for reading books last year and never looked back. Harry Potter, A Song of Ice and Fire, Mistborn, Wheel of Time, Sun Eater, Red Rising, Dune. So many amazing worlds to delve into. Gaming is slowly dying. Too much greed. No wonder so many go back to classic games and stay there.
That is awesome! My main focus as a hobby is reading. Gaming is very much secondary. If I do game, it is now with a single player experience. And I take my time with it. Never forcing it or rushing through. What has been your favorite book or book series you've read? I'm currently finishing up Wheel of Time. On book 12.
This is a topic that's been on my mind lately with a recent release. I agree with so much of this. I know a lot has changed with the industry, but I also think the fans have become so toxic as a result of this overconsumption/stimulation/production. There's so much pressure they put on the creators to make more and make better and faster...pressure for PERFECTION. And the cycle continues. I don't play many games anymore; I don't have the time. I pretty much stick to games I love and play over and over. I'm willing to wait for a release and have waited many years for one. Not saying every gamer is like that, but I can't even post a positive thing online about a game without getting ripped into for even liking it. I, personally, would love to see the developers go back, take well-loved games, and remaster them with the technology we have today. We've seen this with a lot, but I'm thinking more about games like Fable 2, Dragon Age: Origins, and others. I really miss when a game would blow me away for trying something new, creative, innovative. Another thing I miss...the printed Strategy Guides. They've stopped doing those because of all of the free walk-throughs you can get online. But I miss having them. I make notes. I loved the artwork. That may be 'old school' of me but here we are lol.
YES! I totally agree. Yes we see many games being launched broken and unfinished. We see games not take risks. But it isn't a one way street. We as gamers don't play a game for what it is anymore. We always have to compare everything to Skyrim or call of duty (just a broad example). Any dip in frame rate or glitch in the graphics sends games into a negative spiral! I love your points. And I am on the same page with remakes/remasters. My wife and I have been in love with the resident evil remakes. 2 and 4. Fable 2 was a classic game in my childhood and would LOVE a remake of that. And my goodness you are speaking my language on strategy guides. I am one for physical media. Hence why I buy physical books. Guides are the same thing. I loved having guides to some of my favorite games. I miss that today. What are some of your favorite games that have come out recently? And what are some of your favorite games of all time?
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yes, exactly! Why do we have to compare everything? Even in the same franchise, sometimes GameX is not going to be the same as GameA and that's OK! Can't we just appreciate a game for what it is and talk about what we liked and didn't like in a civil way? I used to play Bayonetta and BloodRayne and Castlevania (Lament was my fav) as a teen. I did play Fable 2 and I attempted Elden Ring (too hard for me, but I may give it another shot). I also tried BG3 and I just don't vibe with turn-based, which I hated because I genuinely loved the story as far as I got and what I've seen. I'm a die hard Dragon Age fan. I played every game when it came out. I waited 10 years for Veilguard and, you know what? Is it exactly what I wanted DA4 to be? No. Have I enjoyed it? Absolutely. Do I think there's things that could be done better? Sure. Will I play it a dozen times like I have with the others? Definitely. But the fandom is so divided right now and it's sickening to be in it. I've had to get out of some subreddits and Facebook groups because it's so bad. I lost count how many times I read a comment of someone bashing the game after only playing it for an hour. They played 1-2% of a game and judged the entirety on that. Sometimes I read them doing it after 10-30 minutes. It's the need for instant gratification that bothers me...
@@carlee3958 Exactly! Same with books. Why can't we just have healthy agreements and disagreements. Let's learn from each other and our opinions. I really think It is awesome to hear you tried two of the biggest releases of the decade and didn't jive with em. That is something so many of us need to learn or apply. Just because a game is popular, doesn't mean you have to like it. I happen to LOVE BG3 because I am a dnd fan. I also tired Elden Ring and liked it. But dropped off. Then I tried it again with a new build and it clicked. A souls game finally clicked with me. And there is another thing people need to recognize...it's okay to like games that AREN'T necessarily popular among the fandoms. Like this new Dragon Age game. More power to you! Play what you want. The most important thing is to have fun and play what is fun for you!
@@Thomas.R.Howell Agree 100%. I really wanted to love BG3 because...Astarion lol. But I just don't have the patience for turn-based and the mod just doesn't work. Even on the easiest mode, Elden Ring kept kicking my butt. I'm not super skilled/strategic so I kept getting too frustrated. It was beautifully made, though. It was definitely my type of game art-wise. I was one of those that loved Lament of Innocence over the other Castlevania games. Odd duck over here lol! It would be great if everyone thought this way and could just have great conversations. Constructive criticism among fans could vastly improve the industry too. Another problem I think is this ability get a full refund after "trying" a game. It's a great idea, but I think it encourages buying too much and that instant money back if you don't immediately like it. You don't worry too much about spending the money. You're not as intentional about buying it. Spending $60-80, if you only get back so much, you might think 'oh, I'll give it more of a chance because I spent that.'
@@carlee3958 Whoa what a great point on purchasing games. The refund aspect really does take the worry out when buying a game. But it also creates an attitude of half heartedness. A lack of intentionality and dedication to the game you just bought. Sorry to sound like an old man saying back in my day...but truly back in my day when you bought a game.... that game meant so much because it was your only game. You wouldn't see another purchase for awhile. So you cared about that game. So back to your point you are right. If people weren't getting refunds I feel they would be more inclined to try that game again and give it more of a chance!
I also have the same issues with video games nowadays. Something I always started to notice more is how money hungry these live service video game companies are, and some of them don't even work up to what they promise (OW2). I started to get sick of this unending cycle of stimulation made by live service games and I decided to play a game that I've always been excited to play, GTA San Andreas. And wow. I've never had so much fun gaming since the days I was playing the Telltale's Walking Dead series. I remember spending 10+ hrs on GTA San Andreas in one day and I was having the time of my life. Once those credits rolled in, I realized how amazing games are when they have depth and can actually provide an escape from the world rather than causing more stress. I got my fortnite-addicted little brother to buy a game and he chose Assassin's Creed Valhalla and I remember him spending all the time playing it and I could tell he was having a lot of fun. I still have a lot of games that I own to still play...(RDR 2, RE1+2+4, P5R, and the list goes on...). But, I'm glad that I got back into gaming for fun and not the fear of missing out P.S. I recently spent last week playing over 20 hrs of Persona 3 Reload and finishing the game. It was such a beautiful game, and it was worth the 57 hrs I spent finishing it.
Don't get me started on overwatch 2. That is the most blatant example of why modern gaming doesn't honor the player. That is awesome to hear! There is something truly special. Magical. When a game hits you in the soul. That childlike wonder. San Andreas just feels like an early Saturday morning kinda game. Excited for you to dive into those other games! Persona 5 I put about 30 hours in then life got in the way. When I first started it, I was hit with that childlike wonder. Felt like a kid again on a Saturday morning. WHAT A GAME. So when I finish Witcher 3 I will restart P5R and give it my full attention.
@@Thomas.R.Howell I agree heavily with how nostalgic San Andreas feels. I remember waking up and going straight to the game which is something I definitely did a lot while playing games when I was younger 😂. Also, I've played around 24 hours of Persona 5 last year and I remember grinding out the Kamoshida dungeon all night. It felt like when I used to play Pokemon Fire Red and grind battles 24/7. I love that childlike wonder feeling and after finally playing my most anticipated games, San Andreas and Persona 3, I can't wait to play even more games. Good luck on finishing The Witcher 3 btw. That's definitely a game series I want to try out one day.
That’s exactly why I started reading as a hobby this year! Most video game studios are too corporate, and their games are simply lazy cash grabs. Not to mention multiplayer live-service games, which I stopped playing years ago. Of course, there are some studios that are still holding the gaming industry together, like FromSoft or Remedy, but you’ve got to wait a lot for their games to come out 😂. I’d say it’s the same with the movie industry. Except for Christopher Nolan or Villeneuve, who actually care about what they’re doing, the rest is basically redundant trash. So it was quite refreshing to get into reading and experience stories by authors who actually give a shit about the art they’re producing. Look at Sanderson, for example. The guy has a podcast that makes you feel like he’s just a dude who enjoys writing rather than someone who’s doing it for the money.
You are speaking my language. Did you say Villeneuve? He is my favorite filmmaker! Sicario and Prisoners are probably my favorite films of his. Although everything he makes is amazing. Agreed! I love playing games and reading books that were made by people who CARE! And watching films who care and have a story to tell. New movies....ugh don't get me started with the stuff they they are releasing now.
I agree with your grivances. Looking at how games are nowadays, how expensive and low quality many are, some of them costing 80€ for the normal version (NBA 2K and Star Wars Outlaws) and how developers, mostly corporate leaderships refuse giving fans what they want, I decided to go back to older games. Got an Xbox 360 and all the games I love or really wanted to play for that console, including the whole Fable Trilogy and Witcher 2, and I'm having a lot of fun with it. If you want deep thought-provoking games I recommend Silent Hill 2 (the original is better story-wise) and Planescape Torment. They're some of the best single player narrative focused games of all time.
totally see that. Especially in 2k ugh. I used to get that every year. It used to be innovative with its single player franchise modes but then My Park became the focus.... and influencers focus on that. So of course 2k will put more Development resources in not just the most popular modes but the modes that will bring in more money. LOVED the old fable trilogy. Hope the new one is....good. Is the remake of Silent Hill 2 on playstation?? I only have xbox...
@Thomas.R.Howell the remake of SH2 is a timed exclusive on PS5 for a year I believe. The new Fable will probably be very different from the old ones. It's aimed at a modern audience.
@@Jeustful Whoa really? Would you recommend it as a day one purchase?? I will do my extensive research. I will not let nostalgia blind me into getting it haha Why can't they remake fable 2 ugh
@@Thomas.R.Howell Silent Hill 2 is also aimed at a modern audience. It makes some changes from the original losing some of its identity, but it's a pretty good game. Even if they remade Fable 2, there were certain aspects that would probably change.
@@Jeustful I am all for quality of life changes and maybe some new mechanics and details. But change for the sake of change is not what I want. I see if in modern films and tv shows. It's sad. Especially if it is something that is built around a period of time in history. To honor that historic era and its cultures. We need that. To learn history and study other cultures. I think of Kingdom Come Deliverance. A game I have not played but because the sequel is coming makes me want to try it. I've studied up on that game and WOW. How honest they are with the time period. How cool would it be to live in the shoes of a character in the 1400s?
I used to play some games when I was younger. I don't play videogames anymore, but I understand what you say, nowadays we are in the inmedate era, patience is rarer today.
That is a whole other video. Patience. Being a patient gamer. Thankfully I have been so far behind on the releases I get to purchase games that are 80% off and enjoy them with a child like wonder. Play at my own pace. Not feeling rushed to finish before a new game releases!
I was a Nintendo kid growing up, but didn't somehow play any of the Zelda games. Fast forward to my 30s, I bought a switch and flew through Oracle of Ages/Seasons, Link to the Past/Links Awakening. It was such a breath of fresh air and now kinda glad I discovered them when I did- the storytelling is amazing. I also played a lot of Pokemon (yellow/red etc.) and the style of the Zelda games reminded me of those days.
Love that. I haven't played any of the classic Zeldas. I did however play the old Pokemon games growing up! Breathe of the Wild was my first true Zelda game and it is probably my favorite game of all time.
@@Thomas.R.Howell Funnily enough, I bought the physical copy of Breath of the Wild alongside my switch (it was the whole reason I bought it, tbh after getting hooked on some classic zelda on a super nintendo and heard amazing things about it). But got sidetracked with all the classics and Breath of the Wild felt overwhelming hahah. I'm still willing to open it up again one day though (hearing it's your favourite helps, too!). If you get the opportunity, I do recommend those classics...they are so lovely!
@@kaaylaac Oh wow! That's awesome. Well I am quite jealous of you. I wish I could erase my memory and play breathe of the wild for the first time again. So I hope you enjoy it whenever you get to it!
It’s truly such a special part of life to enjoy those things for the first time. Thank you & I hope you find the next great thing for yourself too (: Great video/content as always!
The reason they are not fun anymore is because they are not being made for fun, they are being made for money, the games we grew up on will always be fun because they were made for fun, this is why many people are revisiting their old videogames, great video man :)
great point! I'm thankful I have been a slow gamer. So I've got plenty of great games to catch up on. Witcher 3 for instance. So so good. I get to play the fun games without falling for the lies of these current releases. Thank you for watching dude!
A good game from a few years ago that a lot of passion was clearly invested in is Hades. Good art, fantastic music, great dialogue, tons of replayability... definitely worth checking out if you haven't yet.
Yes! I don't like a lot of roguelites or likes, but Hades got me into them. I barley even touched the surface with some of the amazing indie developers in this video. If I did it would've been an hour long haha.
I feel the same way but with the book industry. They are overproducing in a hurry instead of thinking quality writing. I do love gaming though. I have Nintendo Switch and instead of downloading I insert the games like in the good old days. Have you tried Animal Crossing? It is fun if you liked the Sims games.
I totally agree! That's why I don't read a lot of popular authors or books. I stick with authors who put in the work and take their time to provide something with depth and something that will provoke feeling and thought. Yes! I loved the old Animal Crossing games on the DS. My wife and I have it on our switch as well. The new one is fun but it got stale after awhile. It didn't have the charm or variety like the old ones did. It seems more of a town and house design game. Which is still fun! But we lean more toward Stardew now...which I also have the cartridge for on my switch. So so nice.
i been having this subject in my mind recently and I agree 100 % with that feeling of being lied to for the game industry. but to the point where I´m cynical. Alan Wake II is a great example, while I was playin it I realize there was a location (The Lake house) that is not reacheble during gameplay, until of course, buying the DLC, and I was like, "yhea that make sense" but honestly whern it become so regular to me? to have incomplete games?
See I get that totally! However....I got the deluxe edition for Alan wake 2 haha. The other night my wife and I saw that option for the lake house. But we were so lost into the main story that we skipped that! It is weird for them to put that option in game and not the menu. It's very...sneaky... and misleading. And honestly immersion breaking.
@@jesamavi She loves watching me play games. And with this one, I played the first quarter. Then she took over. It was fun to sit back and experience the game through her gameplay. Plus she is a master at puzzles.
@@jesamavi Dude I LOVED watching my bro play video games. I'd spend hours watching him play the old school Zeldas on N64 or the James bod games on gamecube. Classic times.
Tbf Division wasn't that bad. On launch the game was relatively all good. I do agree with you that games are released poorly especially now and we have all these issues however I do believe the one thing that always gets left out the conversation as it's hard for people to consider themselves a part of the problem but the online space has made is awful for anyone who makes a game. If it has the slightest flaw it'll be ripped into and what not. Most things get jumped on and blown up more. I do agree with the whole video though.
YES! I agree. I didn't touch on that because that seemed to be a totally different video. The online space has really tainted the view on many video games. I mean look at video game journalism. Video games aren't given a fair shake. People aren't playing games for what they are. They always have to compare games to each other. And I do think graphics and frame rate are glorified WAY too much. Gameplay and depth are what matter to me. If a game looks bad but plays amazing and has wonderful deep systems and engages me... Then I am sold! Oh and don't get me started on "Hype". People hyping games up. To the point unrealistic expectations are thrown at that game. SO then the slightest inconvenience or flaw will ruin their expectations forever.
haha that's amazing! The taste isn't for everyone. But it might grow on you. I used to have cream and sugar in my coffee but now I drink it black. It's an acquired taste.
Nice. I'm 53 now and so, I've seen the rise ( and fall ) of games, since before the very first platform. I wholly agree with your sentiments here; games are no longer even designed to be fun. They're designed to be a collection quest, that, again, by design, is incomplete. That way, they can take more of your money. They've turned gaming into a completion addiction. That being said, the one thing which which I disagree with you on is that the single greatest problem with games these days is that they are never completed. It is the absolute heith of insanity that I can spend say, $60 on a game, take it home, and then I can't play it because either I have to download a multi Gb update, or, I have to be online to play it. That should be illegal. To this day, I can still pull out an old PS2 game, or PS3 game, slip in the disc, and guess what? : play.
What great points! Even the single player games (anything made by Ubisoft) are a chore. And buried in micro-transactions. Filled with busy work and side quests. Nothing is designed to be genuinely fun in those games. Its just a glorified chore (quest) list. Very very good point. It's crazy that we have to be online to play certain games. Or if I don't install a certain patch then the game is completely broken. my Switch and Wii U are the only systems I can literally put a game in and play. Gotta ask what is your favorite game of all time and why?
I don't like modern video games much either. Modern games have a lot of darkness in them. Not as in color gradient. I mean there isn't a real counterbalance of light. For example, Batman him self is pretty much a villian. He has had a horrible life, he has no family or ever decided to make one. He broods and is violent. And the world he inhabits is dark and evil. I want my protagonist to be more relatable than that. I want them to have humor and have some slice of life moments to offset the bad that happens in the game. Nathan Drake from Uncharted series is an example of this. I have never delved into Nintendo's library of games which seem to have a lighter feel to them from an outsider's perspective. I would certainly like to try it out soon and make the choice to pick up a Nintendo Switch. Maybe give myself a Christmas present that I never really do.
If you want to play an incredible game, I recommend Hollow Knight! the world is astounding and the gameplay is amazing. I think that only having one game downloaded sounds like a great way to build up discipline, and I honestly might try it for myself ... so you'll have to let us know how it goes!!
This is an issue not just with modern games. It’s an issue with older ones too. I mean the video game world has always been an industry. The problem is you were younger and everything seemed new and novel and fresh and innovative and worth exploring now you’re older and you’ve come to understand just how rare the passion project actually is. Modern video games can still be fun, but you have to dig for them because there’s so many cookie cutter experiences out there, but they still exist. Don’t give up on them.
Totally agree. As adults we see what's behind the curtain. So many cookie cutter games out there. But we can find some AMAZING gems. What are some of your favorite recent releases? And what are some of your favorite video games of all time?
If you (or anyone reading the comments) really want to immerse yourself in a unique RPG that does not hold your hand, I suggest Kingdom Come: Deliverance. It has become one of my favorite games of all time, and the sequel is coming out this February 💪
Dude...the timing of this. THANK YOU! I had this game come up on my radar pretty recently and watched the latest dev livestream for the sequel. I am sold. It looks like everything I would ever want in a game! Historically accurate. Choices that matter. A living breathing world. An eye for detail and the mundane. Gritty combat. Etc etc. Do you think I absolutely NEED to play the first one or can I just jump into the sequel? Because right now I am deep into Witcher 3 and will probably be done in time for KCD2 lol
I haven’t played video games since 2014 , you slowly develop a Peter Pan syndrome and if not in a passive way they try to induce it to you . Games are not anymore about mental stimulation , but the creation of brain disorders ... yeah and what about "grown ups" that end up being lonelier and lonelier , playing in live service games together with others that are 10-15 or 20 years younger than them , in some cases it doesn’t end up well .
@@Thomas.R.Howell I started it on August and red it back to back, now I'm on book 5. It' worth reading, better than the show in my opinion, and slow paced, like you enjoy books))
Halo, Skyrim, Cod and Minecraft shaped my childhood. Video games today just don't seem to have that same excitement that caused me to stay hooked like the games of old.
I also turned 30 this year, and you are my savior. This sort of content resonates with me so much.
You are so kind! I am happy I can resonate with you!
@@Thomas.R.Howell We need more positive content on this platform, and you're doing an excellent job. Keep up the good work!
@@Scyrenus Thank you! I j just want to be myself and be honest. I want conversation. A community. Thank you so much for following and joining this journey.
Nostalgia’s a funny thing. Playing video games in the past still had their issues and pros and cons. If you think games aren’t fun, there’s not passionate devs anymore, or creative anymore, you should probably broaden your horizons. Having so many games at our fingertips gives you a wide range of variety to check out. Especially in the indie space
Oh yes I know. Nostalgia can be used in a way to complain or appreciate. I like to use it as an engine to appreciate.
And Thankfully I have broadened my horizons. I was never just an annual madden or cod player. I grew up playing many different types of games and even now. There are so so many amazing indie games out there. If I had mentioned more about the indie space, then the video would be an hour long. So I thought I would save that for another time.
There are plenty of passionate devs out there. Just like writers and filmmakers. Games like Stardew and Animal Well were made by a single dev.
I agree to a certain degree, I believe that there are games coming out today can still have the passion and love that they once had 20 years ago, you just gotta look for them.
I agree! You do have to look for them. My video was mainly focus on the big shifts in gaming that I think have changed gaming as a whole. Not to say games today are bad. There are plenty of dev teams out there that are passionate and love what they do. You do have to look for them. Thankfully the internet does make it a little easier to find some underrated games or games that might be overlooked and lost in the hype.
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yeah, 100% and it's honestly those hidden games that are the better ones, and the AAA games aren't that great. You made a lot of major points in your video and said everything that me and my brothers talk about.
Same can be said for any streaming services. Love how you explain.
Two aspect that you left out was the death of campaign mode and split screen. My son and I have to buy two games and two console to play together. Family playing together has died and not fun.
I am talking mostly about first person shooters. Like call of duty and halo. Those seems to not allow single player storyline. If they do they are very short. I play games not to go against someone else but just decompressed. So I just play old games
Yes! I totally agree. Thank you for adding this. When I was editing this video I felt I left out so much. Indie games, campaign modes and split screen/couch co-op games.
I do think the switch was the best thing to come out since the Wii. I brought my families together to play overcooked, Mario kart, super smash brothers, etc. It was a blast to relive that classic feeling of having everyone around one tv experiencing the game together! Thankfully Nintendo seems to hold on to that part of gaming and keeping it alive.
My friend if you can, get yourself an old console, get a ps2-3 or an xboxO or xbox 360 then you can enjoy a lot more games with your son.
@chillyman7340 well I think that speaks to the point of video. You have turn to old systems to get those features.
@@popculture3394 The older systems just had more to offer for less, there is less of a focus on FUN. I remember at one time when there were so many games that didn't take themselves to seriously, nothing but good clean fun, the days when physical media was about having a collection of great games to play.
Exactly my thoughts! Good video, love the easy and simple setting. Liked and earned a sub! 👌🏻
wow thank you!
I think slowing down really is the key. I've only played a handfull of game this year, all physical copy, all on switch, and I'm having a great time.
Hollow knight, Tears of the kingdom, Sea of stars, Tactics Ogre Reborn, quality over quantity.
YES! Thankfully I have always been a slow gamer. Never have liked to rush through games. Same with my reading with books. I love taking my time. Being patient and enjoying the journey. Not rushing toward the destination.
I think I have only played a few games this year. Baldurs Gate 3. Alan Wake 2 and now Witcher 3.
@Thomas.R.Howell We're on the same page, maybe it's something about being 30. Are we becoming wiser ?
Also, I bought most of them second hand !
@@zaklesiou I think we are wise in the fact we don't fall for it anymore. I'm tired of getting lied to by these companies. I want to support the smaller companies that truly care and create out of love and passion.
Well said. Most modern games are designed around psychological tactics for addiction over the fun or experience of playing. Stimulation overload is easy to fall into and hard to get out of.
Exactly! Also didn't even bring up SBMM... oof.
Pretty much agree with all the points you raised, very well said. 👍 More creators need to highlight the differences between videogames created by passionate designers, and "videogames" designed by giant corporations like EA, Ubisoft, Blizzard, etc. The corporate titles might appear at a glance to be a videogame but actually can be better described as a product. Someone else actually coined the term "addiction loop" to describe some of the endless forever games that keep milking people for money with endless skins, DLC, battle passes, etc.
Part of the problem is that people confuse an addicting game with fun. A fun game is a joy and can be put down after an hour or two. An addictive game, aka addiction loop, makes people develop the habit of constantly logging into it, playing it, and hopefully constantly spending money on it.
Alan Wake 2 and Fortnight might both be classified as "videogames" but to me they could not be more different things. Citizen Kane and pr0n0graphy both use film as a medium but one is a masterpiece of film and the other a steaming pile of trash designed to fry one's brain. I stay away from the latter and also stay the hell away from the Live Services/Forever Games/Addiction Loops, whatever the hell you wanna call them. More Alan Wake 2, less Fortnight! Sorry, didn't mean to write this much, thank you for reading!
YES! I don't think I even brought that up...."Addiction". Goodness what a great point. We have become addicted to logging in due to FOMO. Just to get that little weapon skin or a few extra v-bucks.
Thankfully my wife and I have great self control when we play those type of games. We pretty much play Fortnite. But that is only when our friend can get on (who now has a child). So he can get on maybe once a week for an hour at a time if that.
I would much rather engage with a deep thought provoking story than mindless addicted "fun".
Great points. Thank you for sharing!
I gotta ask now. What is your favorite game and why?
@@Thomas.R.Howell Just kinda threw Fortnite out there since it's a very famous live service/forever game, but it's certainly not the worst example. Though I haven't played it myself I've heard that despite everything it can be a fun time in certain amounts, so I wouldn't fault anyone for spending some time with it. And hey if both you and your wife are able to enjoy it responsibly, then it's all good!
Some of the worst examples of predatory monetization tend to be found in mobile games, which is more what I had in mind when railing against addiction loops.
As for *my* favorite game? Really hard to choose just one, so to keep it simpler lets stick to titles from the past three months: Astrobot! That game just makes me smile. (: And a quick honorable mention goes to Mario & Luigi Brothership. Really enjoying it. Despite some technical hiccups it's still a good time!
I realized alot of my favourite games were story driven. It took me a while to realise sometimes I skipped past gameplay parts to get the next part of the story. I got to a place where I can now appreciate books for the narratives and games for the gameplay. I appreciate it when a game does a story well or smartly using player input in a way a book could never. But I feel like if I'm looking for a game these days, it needs to be weird or pushing something novel in terms of genre or a master class in narative. I also love it when indie games try something weird or bizzare. (Games like Webfishing, wobbledogs or noita).I feel like the industry doesn't reward creativity as much anymore. If anyone needs a good puzzle game try out Case of the Golden Idol .The way it involves story building is something only a game as medium can do!
Have you tried Alan Wake 2? Talk about a game that is a masterclass in narrative and pushes the industry for the better. Takes risks. Goodness so so good.
That is something I didn't even really touch on. Because the gaming industry is what it is now, I think the indie space is able to shine even more. I have heard of Golden idol! Heard great things! Sounds like a game my wife and I need to try. She LOVES puzzles.
That's exactly how I've been playing games the last couple of years. I pick 1-2 games out on my steam Wishlist when there is a sale, games which I have been anticipating, and play them until completion. I'm a completionist and I usually spend 40+ hours on large, difficult rpgs/immersive sims (right now it's Sekiro). Now I struggle far less with the problem of over consumption than I used to. It also helps that I have zero tolerance for a game I only half enjoy. The Outer Worlds started off strong, but I put it down after 20 hours when I realized I wasn't having fun or being challenged. It's important to step away from those experiences too, especially if you work a full time job and have non-gaming responsibilities. Cheers.
I love this! I am totally fine just playing through 1 or 2 games a year and fully experiencing them!
And it is OKAY to step away and uninstall a game you don't like. SO what is the internet says it is a must play or one of the best games of all time! If you don't like it. That is OKAY.
Cheers!
It's hard watching my kids go through the Battle Pass cycle. I often wonder if they are having fun anymore. If I ever do have time for gaming, I'll put in an old Madden or MLB The Show disc and play a couple games, and I'm content. Haha!
Kids these days will never get to experience the true magic of those single player games. Discovering new things and uncovering secrets on their own! Without a wallet.
It's also something I didn't touch on. As adults we tend to go back to our comfort games or games that have quick 10-15 minute matches rather than get into an immersive single player game. That takes too much energy and commitment so we fall back on these quick matches.
@@Thomas.R.Howell I struggle spending money on something I know I can't commit the time to. I would love to purchase and play a full, immersive game. It just isn't a priority for me, but I totally understand and appreciate those who do! ☺️ Another method of storytelling that I feel isn't appreciated by many.
@@christophervehon9554 Exactly. So when you spend $70 on a game and it's barley finished or launches broken...that $70 leaving your wallet feels even worse.
I agree when it comes to the game industry making a game out of manipulating the customer to spend the most money and the downfall of physical gaming.
I disagree when it comes to games being released in a complete state. In that aspect it’s not that different from modern broken games. Games back then were just as broken, probably more so, players just had to accept that fact, they couldn’t demand changes because there could be none.
That is a good point. Also maybe because TH-cam and social media wasn't as big back then. So there wasn't a lot of attention being brought to the negative aspects of those old games.
@ Witcher 3 is actually a good example of this. If I remember correctly, it was completely broken at launch and it ended up having a similar journey to that of Cyberpunk 2077 (by this I mean both games being fixed through many patches).
Another awesome video! I got a switch, but have never really been able to get into video games. The only game I've finished is BOTW actually, but I do want to focus on one and try to enjoy it. Keep it up!
Thank you dude!
BOTW is my fav game of all time. It was everything for me when it comes to a game. Genuine joy sprung from within me. It was magic!
I also feel (I'm 40) that games are too vast and large. Ya, all the options are great, but there doesn't seem to be an actual start and finish.
I don't have hours of time to put in to a game. Before, it was 10 to 20 hours of game play. Than 40 to 60. Then 120 to infinite (or it feels that way).
It acts as a deterint to want to invest any time into a game when I don't know if there is an end to be found.
But that's probably just a me/generational thing. But, definitely one of the reasons I rarely pick up a controller anymore.
I agree! I didn't even mention it because if I did my video would've been 2 hours long. I would much rather play in a world that is handcrafted. A pond that is an ocean deep rather than an ocean that is as deep as a puddle. Many Ubisoft games have this idea of more is better. bigger is better. But that is so not always the case. Larger worlds have more busy work. Less quality and intentionality.
Metro Exodus is a great game that is a semi open world game that gives enough freedom before it gets stale. In fact it is one of the most immersive games ever.
Gone are the days of a good linear game with a deep story.
Nice video. I haven’t done a good single player game in a while and sometimes feel dissuaded from doing so because of the time commitment they take. It took me almost 2 months to play through the story Red Dead Redemption 2, playing almost every day. I think that’s one of the best games ever made.
That games was a masterpiece. A game that I think teaches us to slow down and enjoy the little details. It's a slow burn of a story with such natural progression and development.
It annoys me so much that studios hype releases up and then release an unfinished game it loses consumer trust in what you're releasing. How is money mismanaged so badly that a studio needs the money from pre-orders of the game to finish making said game.
My thoughts exactly! Great points
What I did when I realised I was buying too many games was that I returned to an older laptop of mine and it helped me think twice before buying (because pc requirements and all of that). Now all I play is Elder scrolls: Oblivion, Stardew Valley and Undertale. Its genuinely great, since I have been doing this since I was 15 (3 years ago) I haven't been able to really experience high end games but I have no regrets as I still love these games if not more from when I started playing it.
Those games are great! Who needs high end games when you have deep experiences in those three games? Stardew is amazing! Still need to try Undertale. Heard amazing things about that.
You Own Nothing Digital, we are slaves to the subscription model.
YES! Agree 100%. The only physical games I have that actually are the physical games, are anything on my switch or Wii U.
@@Thomas.R.Howell you are able to gift , sell and trade with them. 💯 Your ownership. I remember reading about PS/audible pulling movies and books from their libraries even after people had bought them.
@@Thomas.R.Howell even now with the touch of a key, your physical copy will just be a glorified paperweight you really only own it for as long as they want you to
My steam library is massive…I stopped buying games on sale unless I know I’m going to play it right away.
I miss the days when you could just pop in the disc (or cartridge) and just go. Now I have to try and boot up Skyrim 3 or 4 times because I get an error message that says that it took too long to load. As a great gaming TH-cam channel once said, “I just wanna eat breakfast and play some Skyrim.”
I know right!? I still own my Wii U. A system where I can put a game in and it goes!
@@Thomas.R.Howell I play on my Xbox One. But that’s the only console I have and Skyrim is the only game I have.
@@Twiceborn_by_grace love that! Skyrim is perfect!
@@Twiceborn_by_grace it's one of the most atmospheric games I have ever played.
@@Thomas.R.Howell especially with mods that make it EVEN MORE good looking.
I've been thinking about this quite a bit recently, I don't think it's nostalgia, games just aren't as good nowadays. It feels like the developers are 'abusing the meta' to get the most out of our money/time instead of focusing on the love
i really am focusing on one game per console at a time, in addition to online multiplayer games that i only play with friends. right now i'm delving into kingdom come deliverance, and i'm having a blast with its realistic approach to its specific real world setting. i played a lot of middling games this year, and this really takes the cake. also playing ace attorney on my 3ds and final fantasy tactics wotl on my psp. it's a great shifting triangle, and one of my methods of avoiding the sense of chore. deep diving, and clearly trashing games that don't feel fun.
That is the way to go! Love it. Yes Kingdom Come is on my radar!
Sly Cooper was the absolute best
Your list of games made me realize we are probably of the same age group lol cheers to those legendary titles
We had the best games to grow up with!
Left video gaming for reading books last year and never looked back. Harry Potter, A Song of Ice and Fire, Mistborn, Wheel of Time, Sun Eater, Red Rising, Dune. So many amazing worlds to delve into. Gaming is slowly dying. Too much greed. No wonder so many go back to classic games and stay there.
That is awesome! My main focus as a hobby is reading. Gaming is very much secondary. If I do game, it is now with a single player experience. And I take my time with it. Never forcing it or rushing through. What has been your favorite book or book series you've read?
I'm currently finishing up Wheel of Time. On book 12.
This is a topic that's been on my mind lately with a recent release. I agree with so much of this. I know a lot has changed with the industry, but I also think the fans have become so toxic as a result of this overconsumption/stimulation/production. There's so much pressure they put on the creators to make more and make better and faster...pressure for PERFECTION. And the cycle continues. I don't play many games anymore; I don't have the time. I pretty much stick to games I love and play over and over. I'm willing to wait for a release and have waited many years for one. Not saying every gamer is like that, but I can't even post a positive thing online about a game without getting ripped into for even liking it.
I, personally, would love to see the developers go back, take well-loved games, and remaster them with the technology we have today. We've seen this with a lot, but I'm thinking more about games like Fable 2, Dragon Age: Origins, and others. I really miss when a game would blow me away for trying something new, creative, innovative. Another thing I miss...the printed Strategy Guides. They've stopped doing those because of all of the free walk-throughs you can get online. But I miss having them. I make notes. I loved the artwork. That may be 'old school' of me but here we are lol.
YES! I totally agree. Yes we see many games being launched broken and unfinished. We see games not take risks. But it isn't a one way street. We as gamers don't play a game for what it is anymore. We always have to compare everything to Skyrim or call of duty (just a broad example). Any dip in frame rate or glitch in the graphics sends games into a negative spiral!
I love your points. And I am on the same page with remakes/remasters. My wife and I have been in love with the resident evil remakes. 2 and 4. Fable 2 was a classic game in my childhood and would LOVE a remake of that.
And my goodness you are speaking my language on strategy guides. I am one for physical media. Hence why I buy physical books. Guides are the same thing. I loved having guides to some of my favorite games. I miss that today.
What are some of your favorite games that have come out recently? And what are some of your favorite games of all time?
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yes, exactly! Why do we have to compare everything? Even in the same franchise, sometimes GameX is not going to be the same as GameA and that's OK! Can't we just appreciate a game for what it is and talk about what we liked and didn't like in a civil way?
I used to play Bayonetta and BloodRayne and Castlevania (Lament was my fav) as a teen. I did play Fable 2 and I attempted Elden Ring (too hard for me, but I may give it another shot). I also tried BG3 and I just don't vibe with turn-based, which I hated because I genuinely loved the story as far as I got and what I've seen.
I'm a die hard Dragon Age fan. I played every game when it came out. I waited 10 years for Veilguard and, you know what? Is it exactly what I wanted DA4 to be? No. Have I enjoyed it? Absolutely. Do I think there's things that could be done better? Sure. Will I play it a dozen times like I have with the others? Definitely. But the fandom is so divided right now and it's sickening to be in it. I've had to get out of some subreddits and Facebook groups because it's so bad. I lost count how many times I read a comment of someone bashing the game after only playing it for an hour. They played 1-2% of a game and judged the entirety on that. Sometimes I read them doing it after 10-30 minutes. It's the need for instant gratification that bothers me...
@@carlee3958 Exactly! Same with books. Why can't we just have healthy agreements and disagreements. Let's learn from each other and our opinions.
I really think It is awesome to hear you tried two of the biggest releases of the decade and didn't jive with em. That is something so many of us need to learn or apply. Just because a game is popular, doesn't mean you have to like it.
I happen to LOVE BG3 because I am a dnd fan. I also tired Elden Ring and liked it. But dropped off. Then I tried it again with a new build and it clicked. A souls game finally clicked with me.
And there is another thing people need to recognize...it's okay to like games that AREN'T necessarily popular among the fandoms. Like this new Dragon Age game. More power to you! Play what you want. The most important thing is to have fun and play what is fun for you!
@@Thomas.R.Howell Agree 100%. I really wanted to love BG3 because...Astarion lol. But I just don't have the patience for turn-based and the mod just doesn't work. Even on the easiest mode, Elden Ring kept kicking my butt. I'm not super skilled/strategic so I kept getting too frustrated. It was beautifully made, though. It was definitely my type of game art-wise. I was one of those that loved Lament of Innocence over the other Castlevania games. Odd duck over here lol!
It would be great if everyone thought this way and could just have great conversations. Constructive criticism among fans could vastly improve the industry too.
Another problem I think is this ability get a full refund after "trying" a game. It's a great idea, but I think it encourages buying too much and that instant money back if you don't immediately like it. You don't worry too much about spending the money. You're not as intentional about buying it. Spending $60-80, if you only get back so much, you might think 'oh, I'll give it more of a chance because I spent that.'
@@carlee3958 Whoa what a great point on purchasing games. The refund aspect really does take the worry out when buying a game. But it also creates an attitude of half heartedness. A lack of intentionality and dedication to the game you just bought.
Sorry to sound like an old man saying back in my day...but truly back in my day when you bought a game.... that game meant so much because it was your only game. You wouldn't see another purchase for awhile. So you cared about that game.
So back to your point you are right. If people weren't getting refunds I feel they would be more inclined to try that game again and give it more of a chance!
I also have the same issues with video games nowadays. Something I always started to notice more is how money hungry these live service video game companies are, and some of them don't even work up to what they promise (OW2). I started to get sick of this unending cycle of stimulation made by live service games and I decided to play a game that I've always been excited to play, GTA San Andreas. And wow. I've never had so much fun gaming since the days I was playing the Telltale's Walking Dead series. I remember spending 10+ hrs on GTA San Andreas in one day and I was having the time of my life. Once those credits rolled in, I realized how amazing games are when they have depth and can actually provide an escape from the world rather than causing more stress. I got my fortnite-addicted little brother to buy a game and he chose Assassin's Creed Valhalla and I remember him spending all the time playing it and I could tell he was having a lot of fun. I still have a lot of games that I own to still play...(RDR 2, RE1+2+4, P5R, and the list goes on...). But, I'm glad that I got back into gaming for fun and not the fear of missing out
P.S. I recently spent last week playing over 20 hrs of Persona 3 Reload and finishing the game. It was such a beautiful game, and it was worth the 57 hrs I spent finishing it.
Don't get me started on overwatch 2. That is the most blatant example of why modern gaming doesn't honor the player.
That is awesome to hear! There is something truly special. Magical. When a game hits you in the soul. That childlike wonder. San Andreas just feels like an early Saturday morning kinda game. Excited for you to dive into those other games! Persona 5 I put about 30 hours in then life got in the way. When I first started it, I was hit with that childlike wonder. Felt like a kid again on a Saturday morning. WHAT A GAME. So when I finish Witcher 3 I will restart P5R and give it my full attention.
@@Thomas.R.Howell I agree heavily with how nostalgic San Andreas feels. I remember waking up and going straight to the game which is something I definitely did a lot while playing games when I was younger 😂. Also, I've played around 24 hours of Persona 5 last year and I remember grinding out the Kamoshida dungeon all night. It felt like when I used to play Pokemon Fire Red and grind battles 24/7. I love that childlike wonder feeling and after finally playing my most anticipated games, San Andreas and Persona 3, I can't wait to play even more games. Good luck on finishing The Witcher 3 btw. That's definitely a game series I want to try out one day.
That’s exactly why I started reading as a hobby this year!
Most video game studios are too corporate, and their games are simply lazy cash grabs. Not to mention multiplayer live-service games, which I stopped playing years ago. Of course, there are some studios that are still holding the gaming industry together, like FromSoft or Remedy, but you’ve got to wait a lot for their games to come out 😂. I’d say it’s the same with the movie industry. Except for Christopher Nolan or Villeneuve, who actually care about what they’re doing, the rest is basically redundant trash.
So it was quite refreshing to get into reading and experience stories by authors who actually give a shit about the art they’re producing. Look at Sanderson, for example. The guy has a podcast that makes you feel like he’s just a dude who enjoys writing rather than someone who’s doing it for the money.
You are speaking my language. Did you say Villeneuve? He is my favorite filmmaker! Sicario and Prisoners are probably my favorite films of his. Although everything he makes is amazing.
Agreed! I love playing games and reading books that were made by people who CARE! And watching films who care and have a story to tell. New movies....ugh don't get me started with the stuff they they are releasing now.
I agree with your grivances. Looking at how games are nowadays, how expensive and low quality many are, some of them costing 80€ for the normal version (NBA 2K and Star Wars Outlaws) and how developers, mostly corporate leaderships refuse giving fans what they want, I decided to go back to older games. Got an Xbox 360 and all the games I love or really wanted to play for that console, including the whole Fable Trilogy and Witcher 2, and I'm having a lot of fun with it.
If you want deep thought-provoking games I recommend Silent Hill 2 (the original is better story-wise) and Planescape Torment. They're some of the best single player narrative focused games of all time.
totally see that. Especially in 2k ugh. I used to get that every year. It used to be innovative with its single player franchise modes but then My Park became the focus.... and influencers focus on that. So of course 2k will put more Development resources in not just the most popular modes but the modes that will bring in more money.
LOVED the old fable trilogy. Hope the new one is....good.
Is the remake of Silent Hill 2 on playstation?? I only have xbox...
@Thomas.R.Howell the remake of SH2 is a timed exclusive on PS5 for a year I believe.
The new Fable will probably be very different from the old ones. It's aimed at a modern audience.
@@Jeustful Whoa really? Would you recommend it as a day one purchase??
I will do my extensive research. I will not let nostalgia blind me into getting it haha Why can't they remake fable 2 ugh
@@Thomas.R.Howell Silent Hill 2 is also aimed at a modern audience. It makes some changes from the original losing some of its identity, but it's a pretty good game.
Even if they remade Fable 2, there were certain aspects that would probably change.
@@Jeustful I am all for quality of life changes and maybe some new mechanics and details. But change for the sake of change is not what I want. I see if in modern films and tv shows. It's sad. Especially if it is something that is built around a period of time in history. To honor that historic era and its cultures. We need that. To learn history and study other cultures. I think of Kingdom Come Deliverance. A game I have not played but because the sequel is coming makes me want to try it. I've studied up on that game and WOW. How honest they are with the time period. How cool would it be to live in the shoes of a character in the 1400s?
I used to play some games when I was younger. I don't play videogames anymore, but I understand what you say, nowadays we are in the inmedate era, patience is rarer today.
That is a whole other video. Patience. Being a patient gamer. Thankfully I have been so far behind on the releases I get to purchase games that are 80% off and enjoy them with a child like wonder. Play at my own pace. Not feeling rushed to finish before a new game releases!
@@Thomas.R.Howell That's the best approach! :)
I was a Nintendo kid growing up, but didn't somehow play any of the Zelda games. Fast forward to my 30s, I bought a switch and flew through Oracle of Ages/Seasons, Link to the Past/Links Awakening. It was such a breath of fresh air and now kinda glad I discovered them when I did- the storytelling is amazing. I also played a lot of Pokemon (yellow/red etc.) and the style of the Zelda games reminded me of those days.
Love that. I haven't played any of the classic Zeldas. I did however play the old Pokemon games growing up! Breathe of the Wild was my first true Zelda game and it is probably my favorite game of all time.
@@Thomas.R.Howell Funnily enough, I bought the physical copy of Breath of the Wild alongside my switch (it was the whole reason I bought it, tbh after getting hooked on some classic zelda on a super nintendo and heard amazing things about it). But got sidetracked with all the classics and Breath of the Wild felt overwhelming hahah. I'm still willing to open it up again one day though (hearing it's your favourite helps, too!).
If you get the opportunity, I do recommend those classics...they are so lovely!
@@kaaylaac Oh wow! That's awesome. Well I am quite jealous of you. I wish I could erase my memory and play breathe of the wild for the first time again. So I hope you enjoy it whenever you get to it!
It’s truly such a special part of life to enjoy those things for the first time. Thank you & I hope you find the next great thing for yourself too (: Great video/content as always!
The reason they are not fun anymore is because they are not being made for fun, they are being made for money, the games we grew up on will always be fun because they were made for fun, this is why many people are revisiting their old videogames, great video man :)
great point! I'm thankful I have been a slow gamer. So I've got plenty of great games to catch up on. Witcher 3 for instance. So so good. I get to play the fun games without falling for the lies of these current releases.
Thank you for watching dude!
An ad for Xbox game pass played whilst I was watching this video 😂
no way!? hahaha
A good game from a few years ago that a lot of passion was clearly invested in is Hades. Good art, fantastic music, great dialogue, tons of replayability... definitely worth checking out if you haven't yet.
Yes! I don't like a lot of roguelites or likes, but Hades got me into them. I barley even touched the surface with some of the amazing indie developers in this video. If I did it would've been an hour long haha.
Before I even watch the video, I just wanna say I appreciate you a lot!
Oh wow thank you so much!
I feel the same way but with the book industry. They are overproducing in a hurry instead of thinking quality writing.
I do love gaming though. I have Nintendo Switch and instead of downloading I insert the games like in the good old days. Have you tried Animal Crossing? It is fun if you liked the Sims games.
I totally agree! That's why I don't read a lot of popular authors or books. I stick with authors who put in the work and take their time to provide something with depth and something that will provoke feeling and thought.
Yes! I loved the old Animal Crossing games on the DS. My wife and I have it on our switch as well. The new one is fun but it got stale after awhile. It didn't have the charm or variety like the old ones did. It seems more of a town and house design game. Which is still fun! But we lean more toward Stardew now...which I also have the cartridge for on my switch. So so nice.
i been having this subject in my mind recently and I agree 100 % with that feeling of being lied to for the game industry. but to the point where I´m cynical.
Alan Wake II is a great example, while I was playin it I realize there was a location (The Lake house) that is not reacheble during gameplay, until of course, buying the DLC, and I was like, "yhea that make sense" but honestly whern it become so regular to me? to have incomplete games?
See I get that totally! However....I got the deluxe edition for Alan wake 2 haha. The other night my wife and I saw that option for the lake house. But we were so lost into the main story that we skipped that!
It is weird for them to put that option in game and not the menu. It's very...sneaky... and misleading. And honestly immersion breaking.
@@Thomas.R.Howell Question Alan Wake II has no co-op mode, so, Do you play the game and your wife just watches you, or viceversa?
@@jesamavi She loves watching me play games. And with this one, I played the first quarter. Then she took over. It was fun to sit back and experience the game through her gameplay. Plus she is a master at puzzles.
@@Thomas.R.Howell That is so damn awesome! I remember I used to watch my old brother playing videogames when we were younger.
@@jesamavi Dude I LOVED watching my bro play video games. I'd spend hours watching him play the old school Zeldas on N64 or the James bod games on gamecube. Classic times.
Also I do with Apple Music. I only download a couple of album. Too many choices your enjoy nothing
I like that!
Tbf Division wasn't that bad. On launch the game was relatively all good. I do agree with you that games are released poorly especially now and we have all these issues however I do believe the one thing that always gets left out the conversation as it's hard for people to consider themselves a part of the problem but the online space has made is awful for anyone who makes a game. If it has the slightest flaw it'll be ripped into and what not. Most things get jumped on and blown up more.
I do agree with the whole video though.
YES! I agree. I didn't touch on that because that seemed to be a totally different video. The online space has really tainted the view on many video games. I mean look at video game journalism. Video games aren't given a fair shake. People aren't playing games for what they are. They always have to compare games to each other. And I do think graphics and frame rate are glorified WAY too much. Gameplay and depth are what matter to me. If a game looks bad but plays amazing and has wonderful deep systems and engages me... Then I am sold!
Oh and don't get me started on "Hype". People hyping games up. To the point unrealistic expectations are thrown at that game. SO then the slightest inconvenience or flaw will ruin their expectations forever.
Multiplayer games have been long dead to me for some time now.
I'm sad it's taking me this long to realize. What games do you play now? What are some of your favs?
@@Thomas.R.Howell I find myself coming back to Skyrim and The Last of Us quite often. I am revisiting Half-Life 2 right now.
@@firstlinelibrary Love Skyrim and Last of Us! Haven't played Half life at all.
I do not like coffee at all and yet now I want to make coffee after watching your videos…
haha that's amazing! The taste isn't for everyone. But it might grow on you. I used to have cream and sugar in my coffee but now I drink it black. It's an acquired taste.
Nice. I'm 53 now and so, I've seen the rise ( and fall ) of games, since before the very first platform. I wholly agree with your sentiments here; games are no longer even designed to be fun. They're designed to be a collection quest, that, again, by design, is incomplete. That way, they can take more of your money. They've turned gaming into a completion addiction. That being said, the one thing which which I disagree with you on is that the single greatest problem with games these days is that they are never completed. It is the absolute heith of insanity that I can spend say, $60 on a game, take it home, and then I can't play it because either I have to download a multi Gb update, or, I have to be online to play it. That should be illegal. To this day, I can still pull out an old PS2 game, or PS3 game, slip in the disc, and guess what? : play.
What great points! Even the single player games (anything made by Ubisoft) are a chore. And buried in micro-transactions. Filled with busy work and side quests. Nothing is designed to be genuinely fun in those games. Its just a glorified chore (quest) list.
Very very good point. It's crazy that we have to be online to play certain games. Or if I don't install a certain patch then the game is completely broken.
my Switch and Wii U are the only systems I can literally put a game in and play.
Gotta ask what is your favorite game of all time and why?
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yeah,it's sad to see what things have become. Sadder yet, younger generations don't realize what they're missing...
@@steved1135 thankfully we can share those amazing memories and experiences with them. My children will grow up with the best games ever.
@@Thomas.R.Howell Indeed. I've been fortunate to have been able to show my 2 nephews what good games are really like.
Books and video games. I love it 🫶
Thank you thank you for stopping by!
I don't like modern video games much either. Modern games have a lot of darkness in them. Not as in color gradient. I mean there isn't a real counterbalance of light. For example, Batman him self is pretty much a villian. He has had a horrible life, he has no family or ever decided to make one. He broods and is violent. And the world he inhabits is dark and evil.
I want my protagonist to be more relatable than that. I want them to have humor and have some slice of life moments to offset the bad that happens in the game. Nathan Drake from Uncharted series is an example of this.
I have never delved into Nintendo's library of games which seem to have a lighter feel to them from an outsider's perspective. I would certainly like to try it out soon and make the choice to pick up a Nintendo Switch. Maybe give myself a Christmas present that I never really do.
New vídeo, new like 😁
Thank you!
If you want to play an incredible game, I recommend Hollow Knight! the world is astounding and the gameplay is amazing. I think that only having one game downloaded sounds like a great way to build up discipline, and I honestly might try it for myself ... so you'll have to let us know how it goes!!
I have heard amazing things about that game! Love the art direction. Just haven't been a fan of that genre. I might give it a go one of these days.
This is an issue not just with modern games. It’s an issue with older ones too. I mean the video game world has always been an industry. The problem is you were younger and everything seemed new and novel and fresh and innovative and worth exploring now you’re older and you’ve come to understand just how rare the passion project actually is. Modern video games can still be fun, but you have to dig for them because there’s so many cookie cutter experiences out there, but they still exist. Don’t give up on them.
Totally agree. As adults we see what's behind the curtain. So many cookie cutter games out there. But we can find some AMAZING gems. What are some of your favorite recent releases? And what are some of your favorite video games of all time?
If you (or anyone reading the comments) really want to immerse yourself in a unique RPG that does not hold your hand, I suggest Kingdom Come: Deliverance. It has become one of my favorite games of all time, and the sequel is coming out this February 💪
Dude...the timing of this. THANK YOU! I had this game come up on my radar pretty recently and watched the latest dev livestream for the sequel. I am sold. It looks like everything I would ever want in a game! Historically accurate. Choices that matter. A living breathing world. An eye for detail and the mundane. Gritty combat. Etc etc.
Do you think I absolutely NEED to play the first one or can I just jump into the sequel? Because right now I am deep into Witcher 3 and will probably be done in time for KCD2 lol
I haven’t played video games since 2014 , you slowly develop a Peter Pan syndrome and if not in a passive way they try to induce it to you . Games are not anymore about mental stimulation , but the creation of brain disorders ... yeah and what about "grown ups" that end up being lonelier and lonelier , playing in live service games together with others that are 10-15 or 20 years younger than them , in some cases it doesn’t end up well .
Love your vids! Have you read A Song Of Ice And Fire by George R.R. Martin?
Thank you! No I have not! But I do want to try it. Also I believe the series is still worth reading even if it isn't finished!
@@Thomas.R.Howell I started it on August and red it back to back, now I'm on book 5. It' worth reading, better than the show in my opinion, and slow paced, like you enjoy books))
@@cristy6409 That's awesome!
the problem with modern games can be summarized to the two things: 1. too many 1. too similar to each other
YES! Too many copy cats. That's why I love the indie games. They take risks and are completely unique from one another.
Halo, Skyrim, Cod and Minecraft shaped my childhood. Video games today just don't seem to have that same excitement that caused me to stay hooked like the games of old.
At least we have magic the gathering and dnd.
Nostalgia. Millennials.