Games Aren't Numbers

All the videogames that try to blaze new territory in what kind of technology, virtual environments, and interactions can be created are very nice, but I really like games that are just for people who love videogames for the way they are now.

Viewtiful Joe's keys that need finding, buttons that need pressing, crates that need pushing, and so on are simple entertainment for players who love doing that kind of thing. These miniature missions are so simple and easy that they have really no depth, they add nothing to the gameplay at all, and seem almost pointless at a glance. But to someone who grew up with games that used all of those mechanics their presence, no matter how seemingly insignificant, makes the game so much more satisfying and enjoyable.

Super Mario Galaxy's life system also at a glance seems meaningless. The worth of a “life” is devalued by how much they're practically handed out to the player. But most seasoned players will find plenty of fun in collecting the 1ups as long as they have some practical value, no matter how small.

Painkiller is for players who like shooting monsters, lots of monsters. There's not much else to this game than shooting lots of monsters, except the gimmicky weapons. Anyone who can't get enough of either of those should enjoy this game.

Most of Okami's collectibles were in no way necessary to complete the game. It would often send the player on long quests just to gain another common item. The overall system of the game requires only a few items to complete, all of which were easily found. But a player who wants to really indulge into the game's full potential can spend hours collecting everything.

And there are plenty of other games as well. Cave Story and the Bit.Trip series come to mind, hopefully without any necessary explanation. In a world where technology is addicted to pushing limits and discovering new territory, it's refreshing to play something that can still see the value in our old, familiar territory.