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.