Thursday, April 12, 2012

Video Games - an insight, Part-1

The satisfaction that one gains by completing a well written game is much more than what we can get out by completing a good book or watching a decent movie. Why? Because games put you 'in' the middle of the story like nothing else. Also with the role playing genre and its  variants getting increasing popular, story telling has never been so user focussed. Especially in games like the Elder scrolls series which is the higest level any role playing game can go, and the Mass Effect series where your decisions can lead to unforseen consequenses ahead, there is a huge involvement of the player in how the plot will unfold itself. There comes a sense of ownership in play which I must say is an experience like no other. Above all, these games give the user a chance to be a part of the world that can never exist, where imagination flies wild, breathtaking views, unforgettable characters. (Where else can you go about slaying dragons or fighting an alien species bent upon destroying your planet?!) No wonder it gets exciting! 

I must say not all games are just child's play. Games like Heavy rain combine intense story telling with unconventional gameplay to deliver an experience which  ins't easy for a younger age group to comprehend. But sadly not too many of such games come out. If we move ahead to where the market is right now, you will be surprised that Hollywood is in no comparison as to the revenue generated by the gaming industry. Call of Duty-Modern Warfare 3 (2012) raked in over a billion US $ in revenue in less than 30days, more than what Titanic made in 10 years after it was first screened. This alone would make investors to sit-up and take notice.
I must end by saying that there are some games out there which I sincerely believe must be tried by all just for the reason that they are no less than masterpieces, which offer unforgettable experiences and touch you like no other form of entertainment.