How do you feel about realism in video games?
- Thread starter Lampokos
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Officer Berri
Cousin Redd's Nightmare
The only realism in games I care about is if the features of the game are realistic to the setting of the game itself. Which pretty much is my saying "I don't care if a game is realistic or not- as long as what I'm looking at doesn't take me out of the experience the game is trying to make me have, I'm fine."
Games can be as realistic if they want though. It's still just a game, regardless.
Games can be as realistic if they want though. It's still just a game, regardless.
Like AC, Mario, and DOA.
What do you mean by realism? Are you referring to thematic elements--characterization--aesthetics--setting--game mechanics? Because realism is a complex concept where its aspects work together, but cannot be compared as they are all entirely different concepts. Are you suggesting that the majority of shooters try to be realistic but aren't, so you provided an example of a realistic shooter; or are you indicating an example of a shooter that is too realistic for your tastes? Just seeking clarification.
The only games that aren't realistic in some fashion are games where game play and story are not equally integral to the game, games where writing and indirect setting details are minute, such as a Mario title, or purposely nonsensical, such as a Katamari Damacy. For instance, even games like Ni No Kuni have realistic problems. Some games are both realistic and not at the same time--i.e. Metal Gear Solid. I think that if a game wants to be taken seriously then it should be realistic on some level. If a game is a multiplayer experience or designed for fun, realism can get in the way. There is a difference between a realistic game--an aesthetic or suspension of disbelief concept (i.e. Mass Effect, Dishonored)--and a simulation game (i.e. Battlefield)--something that mirrors the real world. Simulations have no artistic depth because they aren't supposed to. You can't effectively equate the two because they're different approaches to gaming, and I think a lot of people miss out on innovative games because they're drawing comparisons, before they engage a realistic game, to simulator games.
That said, some people just prefer imaginary aesthetics, so I'm not about to criticize anyone for doing so. I like imaginary and realistic games, but am indifferent to simulator games, though I don't dispute their polish.
The only games that aren't realistic in some fashion are games where game play and story are not equally integral to the game, games where writing and indirect setting details are minute, such as a Mario title, or purposely nonsensical, such as a Katamari Damacy. For instance, even games like Ni No Kuni have realistic problems. Some games are both realistic and not at the same time--i.e. Metal Gear Solid. I think that if a game wants to be taken seriously then it should be realistic on some level. If a game is a multiplayer experience or designed for fun, realism can get in the way. There is a difference between a realistic game--an aesthetic or suspension of disbelief concept (i.e. Mass Effect, Dishonored)--and a simulation game (i.e. Battlefield)--something that mirrors the real world. Simulations have no artistic depth because they aren't supposed to. You can't effectively equate the two because they're different approaches to gaming, and I think a lot of people miss out on innovative games because they're drawing comparisons, before they engage a realistic game, to simulator games.
That said, some people just prefer imaginary aesthetics, so I'm not about to criticize anyone for doing so. I like imaginary and realistic games, but am indifferent to simulator games, though I don't dispute their polish.
To be honest, it takes me out of the game. I find the more made up the game looks, the less I complain about why I survived a direct shot to the head or survived a fall from over 200 feet. When they go for a realistic look, I feel like the WHOLE game should be realistic. Grand Theft Auto is my only exception.
Furry Sparks
Senior Member
The only real answer to this is it depends on the game. However, I like it when the combat is a little more realistic in terms of the damage done. For example, if a single bullet could kill both enemies and the player. A swing of a sword could be enough to kill someone when in the right place. I love it when games have settings like that, like Metro 2033.
Aesthetics vs Graphics.
I'm a realism artist, so I do like a degree of realism when it comes to a games aesthetics. There's a line though for me. When it comes to Call of Duty, or most of the games that like to refer to themselves as 'realistic' settings, I find that there's too much brown in the scene for me to really enjoy it. The environments are washed out and dull. On the other hand, Crysis which PRIDES itself on the realism has a vibrant palate that I can sit and enjoy, even if I don't care for the game itself.
It all comes down to more than just the viewing appeal to me though. You'll have 'realism' games that have music that doesn't match, or games that are cartoony that just have this heavy soundtrack. It pulls you right out of the game. It's all down to balance man. Get that balance right and I'll go for absolutely anything.
I'm a realism artist, so I do like a degree of realism when it comes to a games aesthetics. There's a line though for me. When it comes to Call of Duty, or most of the games that like to refer to themselves as 'realistic' settings, I find that there's too much brown in the scene for me to really enjoy it. The environments are washed out and dull. On the other hand, Crysis which PRIDES itself on the realism has a vibrant palate that I can sit and enjoy, even if I don't care for the game itself.
It all comes down to more than just the viewing appeal to me though. You'll have 'realism' games that have music that doesn't match, or games that are cartoony that just have this heavy soundtrack. It pulls you right out of the game. It's all down to balance man. Get that balance right and I'll go for absolutely anything.
This is what I want; realistic immersion. Whether a fantasy setting or held in the modern era, I'll play these type of games w/out the soundtrack (the ost I'll listen when I'm not gaming) & in 1st person. Skyrim & Fallout 3 are my fav. experiences. Fallout 3 in particular adds a meta gameplay mechanic that's just brilliant- the radio channels on the Pipboy. Great commentary that follows your character's progress, good music representational to that period, & welp, it even plays audio recordings that leads to rescue missions depending on your location.
Graphically, FO 3 is no slouch. There's hyper-realism to go w/ that ultra violence. If you've ever used V. A. T. S. ... wow, what an amazing yet terrible invention.
I like the COD & Battlefield series but they're too frantic for my tastes- when I feel like using guns/armor vehicles, they get it done. Def. doesn't help when the NPCs are screaming "Soap!" =) However, their MP segments, like coop & Spec-ops does a really good job of player immersion for me.
IMO, the most compelling story this gen goes to the Mass Effect series. Just superb writing, + sound & art design. They created a mythos involving alien races, some language elements, various unique planets & habitats, + tons of lore. It's scifi done right.
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