It's true. You go into a game nowadays and they have elaborate schemes, detailed histories, and good, believable characters and NPCs. But then there is the flipside. Games that have almost no plot, that make you assume things that you later learn are untrue. Yes, sometimes these games have inventive ways to show the plot, but it is a horrible feeling for the player when they assume they are supposed to be doing this, when you are actually supposed to do this. You sometimes learn halfway through the game, which I don't think is right. There are other factors to think of as well.
Linear vs. Non-Linear. Some people think that linear is good, and that you have to be driven by the game, just doing puzzles and killing badguys while the game "propels" you towards the end. There are also non-linear games, which are just as bad. You start in the middle of the field, being able to do anything. It may take up to an hour to find out what you are to do next, even with a strategy guide. It is simply too free. A good game takes these aspects and mixes them together. Sure, it lets you wander through the world, but certain plot twists and speech from your party members points you in the right direction.
So, what makes a good game? A good game explains everything in an interesting manner, but never makes the viewer assume anything. It doesn't just take you to the ending, a good game makes you work for it. It makes you wish for more when you are done. A good game is shown by it's plot, mainly. That is what we will be working on in this section.