Fallout 3’s opening narrative begins with the series’ iconic statement: “War. War Never Changes.” The question is, do RPGs? And if so, what does the next generation of RPGs need? Well, if Fable 2 and Fallout 3’s sales are any indication, the answer seems to be pretty clear: sex, violence, and sequels.
Gamer Culture, MMORPGs, World of WarCraft
I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for role-playing games (that’s what she said?), dating way back to the original Final Fantasy on the NES. There’s just something about embarking on epic quests to far-away lands that really embodies gaming to me. Regardless of the game, RPGs represent escapism in perhaps its purest form, especially those RPGs that have a robust character creation system where you can literally be anyone you want to be. However, like any other genre, there are variations between games that can affect just how “escapist” an RPG can be, perhaps the strongest of which is perspective. The perspective a developer chooses for their game has a huge impact on how the story is presented to the player, whether it’s meant to suck you in and tell “your” story, or whether they already have an engaging story to tell and want you along for the ride.
Gamer Culture, Music, Nintendo Wii
Sometimes, the soundtrack to a game just won’t cut it. You’re in the middle of an intense gaming session, and the weak background music isn’t enough to fuel your fire. This is the time to mute your TV and crank up the stereo; it’s what you need to get you past that last level. But what are you listening to?
Nintendo Wii, Playstation 3, Xbox 360
The Xbox 360 has once again beaten out the Playstation 3 in Japan. This has been a continuing trend in the Japanese markets, ever since the 360’s price cut a few weeks ago. Though the Wii and Nintendo DS have more than double Microsoft’s sales, the fact that the 360 is moving forward looks promising. But what does it mean for Microsoft and gamers?
Disgaea is easily one of the most addictive strategy RPG series in recent gaming history. While primarily recognized for its cast of demoniacally adorable characters (Prinnies!!), its claim to fame is its feature where you may enter an original 100-level dungeon within any and every item that comes into your possession. From this, one could potentially play Disgaea forever. I, myself, continue to grind away, having bought the game years ago and leaving Disgaea 2 to collect dust on my shelf, waiting for its turn. With its second sequel due out this month, one must ask, “How do you make playing through infinity better?”
