Biggest problem getting into gaming...

[Space Spoons]

I think cost would probably be the largest hurdle. It's a really expensive hobby with very little physical payout, when you think about it. Sure, you're getting hours of entertainment, and I guess for most gamers, that's enough, but I can't imagine it seeming worthwhile to outsiders.

 

[Fire Daemon]

We don't need simpler controllers, just simpler games. Just because there are a ton of buttons on a controller doesn't mean that they all have to be used. The 360 or PS3 controller can play a simple side scrolling just as well as the NES controller, maybe even better with the sensitivity. A controller can be used by nearly anyone when all they have to do is press A or X and hold the left trigger or press the D-Pad. Both the PS3 and the Xbox 360 need simpler platforming games that can be accessed really easily. Bundle these with the console and call it a starter pack or something and you'll be able to get people into gaming and have them go up to more difficult games like CoD4. Keep those simple games coming though because they might not want to move up.

 

[Mcface]

the biggest problem of the new gamers, is the fact there are a TON of skilled gamers, who will destroy them, and t-bag them time and time again.

 

[lostclause]

But you began to grasp how the controller works just by simply playing a GBA game. While it may be a lack of simple games, you don't think that one of the skills you have to master first, is the controller itself? Before you can start circle-strafing in an FPS, you have to learn how to move forward, left to right, right to left, backwards, and all of that good stuff. Without understand how to do this with whats in your hand...how can you possibly hope to even get into a more complex game?

Well, yes that's true and it's the reason I suck at PS games, because I couldn't tell you which one's square to save my life. However I do think that simpler games are a better way to bring people into gaming instead or simpler gamepads. When you've got a simple 2D game on the 360 for example, it becomes little different from a GBA. You only use a couple of buttons and the thumbstick becomes simpler, being only used for horizontal movement and only one of them generally. Once you got the hang of that you will move onto 3D games or games with odd quirks like PoP SoT as you get familiar with the controls and utilise their full postential. However since both simple and complex games can be made for these controls I don't see the sense it bringing down the complex, just in slighlty more emphasis on the simple.

 

[Mr.Pandah]

I think cost would probably be the largest hurdle. It's a really expensive hobby with very little physical payout, when you think about it. Sure, you're getting hours of entertainment, and I guess for most gamers, that's enough, but I can't imagine it seeming worthwhile to outsiders.

Yeah, as someone stated above as well, I can see how price can be a huge turn off for our hobby. It kinda makes me sit and think sometimes why I pay so much for this stuff.

Moviebob to the rescue! To share your thoughts and agree with you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aC1taRsnU-k

As for my opinion I'd say that there were two roads consoles took back when gaming was only in it's second generation. The first road was simple controls like the Atari 2600 and the second road was following a more computer-like route like the Intellivision and colecovision.

Intellivision, Colecovision and even the Atari 5200 all utilized a very odd controller for very simple games. These controllers had around 15 buttons consisting of a 0-9 keypad, 2 buttons on each side and sometimes the joystick was a button as well. Playing these systems made controls very obscure and hard to handle as just like with the controllers of today often overwhelmed the player unless they played the game a lot.

I'd say right now that developers really need to start being more disciplined and decide if every button needs a command with their games.

As for the player, I'm lucky to grow with my hobby being able to handle the growing complexity but for people new to the hobby unless they are willing to commit playing certain games can be a major turn off.

Yeah, I remember the Intellivision...even though I don't really want to haha I guess thats what the Wii is for though, correct? So that developers can help alleviate some of the stress of the controller situation with actually giving the player that feeling that they are moving. For example, I find turning in a shooter on the Wii frustrating as hell, but perhaps to a non gamer, it seems more natural to actually move the controller in the direction they want to go. Interesting concept...and thats why Nintendo is making out like a bandit this generation.

 

[CanadianWolverine]

I'm not saying we need to dumb down the controllers of this generation, or any future ones, but what could possibly be done to aid in the adventures of a prospective gamer? Is there any way at all that these behemoths that we call controllers can be more..."newb" friendly? (Yes, there are a few questions, first one being if you think there are other problems for new gamers and then the ones I wrote just now)

The first thing I thought of when reading through your post was the Wii controller. Even as a kid, I recall other new comers to the NES always tossing their hands around like that would somehow make Mario jump and I would just shake my head ... now my Mom has a controller that seems like it would perfectly suited to trying to control the character you see on screen that way and so I don't shake my head anymore but smile and laugh along with them. Motion controllers are a part of our virtual gaming reality finally, thank god.

 

[Mcface]

senses overload you'd get from something like Uncharted 2?

Agree, but a piss poor example.

Uncharted 2 is an extremely linear game that me and my girlfriend ease through on normal mode, she never really plays games.

 

[Versagen]

For me cost is a bigger problem than the controller.
I grew up with the Sega and Nintendo 64, so I was used to pressing a few buttons. After that I stuck to my PS2 and handheld games until I got my X-Box 360 a few months ago.

Granted, I was used to bulky controllers but when I first held my new controller in my hand I felt intimidated. I mean, it looks like Microsoft just wanted to see how many buttons they could fit onto it.

But you can get past it. I had to look down at the controller a few times whenever I switched between games, but now everything's nice and smooth. My friend got used to my controller within a few hours. And my mother... Well, my mother has no interest in gaming, but I made her look at my controller and she said that she would never learn how to use it because she was used to games like Pacman and Space Invaders. n.n

 

[Kasawd]

I would suggest a system.

To be exact, the Nintendo 64.

Looking at that paddle makes you wonder how you should even HOLD it.

Also, Banjo Kazooie cannot lose in the respect that it can be enjoyed by virtually everyone.

 

[Mr.Pandah]

senses overload you'd get from something like Uncharted 2?

Agree, but a piss poor example.

Uncharted 2 is an extremely linear game that me and my girlfriend ease through on normal mode, she never really plays games.

Okay, if thats a poor example, then refer to the CoD4 picture I have up higher. *Its running on the PC, and thats a multiplayer game, but you get my drift*

Uncharted 2, while linear, is very bright and colorful and while running around and playing the game for over 2 hours without a break, my head even started to ache. Its not fun looking for treasures without some sort of guide in that game, trust me.

We don't need simpler controllers, just simpler games. Just because there are a ton of buttons on a controller doesn't mean that they all have to be used. The 360 or PS3 controller can play a simple side scrolling just as well as the NES controller, maybe even better with the sensitivity. A controller can be used by nearly anyone when all they have to do is press A or X and hold the left trigger or press the D-Pad. Both the PS3 and the Xbox 360 need simpler platforming games that can be accessed really easily. Bundle these with the console and call it a starter pack or something and you'll be able to get people into gaming and have them go up to more difficult games like CoD4. Keep those simple games coming though because they might not want to move up.

Yeah, I wasn't aiming for simpler controllers. I don't want to see that happening, since I'm perfectly fine with controllers the way they are. When you start talking like this, a starter pack would be the only way I could see this work. Because what if this happened, I buy a brand new console, fire up the new hot FPS or whatever, and I'm in over my head...way over my head. What do I do? Take the system back? No! I have to persist! But god damnit...I keep losing! Then I look around frantically and realize that I have to pay even more to learn how to grasp my controller and this new video game environment by buying another game that will inevitably lead me to playing the game I originally bought.

It seems a bit backwards, but...I guess it could be done. I really only see a Starter pack being of any use for this kind of mentality though.

 

[Thaius]

I think the hardest things to overcome for many people are undoubtedly the stereotypes. Until a year or so ago, my mom didn't even know games had stories. I'm not sure how that logic follows, but she somehow thought that when I played Halo, I just sat there alone and shot random things for no reason over a 10+ hour campaign.

People really don't understand that video games have value. They don't understand the social value nor the literary value that video games hold. It's hard to get into something when you see it as nothing more than a waste of time.

Now this one interests me. I've never heard of that one before. Perhaps Sony heard about your story and decided to base their Uncharted 2 commercial around it.

Well that's not the only example. When I first talked to my best friend's mom about how video games told great stories, I got that dismissal that you get when an adult is no doubt thinking "Oh, you're so cute with your little ideas: don't worry, you'll grow and be big and smart someday!" She completely dismissed my idea, and I still can't think of a good reason why.

I am a huge proponent of video games as a form of literature, so you can't even imagine all the crap I've gotten from many older people about this: people just don't get it.

 

[Mr.Pandah]

I would suggest a system.

To be exact, the Nintendo 64.

Looking at that paddle makes you wonder how you should even HOLD it.

Also, Banjo Kazooie cannot lose in the respect that it can be enjoyed by virtually everyone.

I miss that game...

I'm not saying we need to dumb down the controllers of this generation, or any future ones, but what could possibly be done to aid in the adventures of a prospective gamer? Is there any way at all that these behemoths that we call controllers can be more..."newb" friendly? (Yes, there are a few questions, first one being if you think there are other problems for new gamers and then the ones I wrote just now)

The first thing I thought of when reading through your post was the Wii controller. Even as a kid, I recall other new comers to the NES always tossing their hands around like that would somehow make Mario jump and I would just shake my head ... now my Mom has a controller that seems like it would perfectly suited to trying to control the character you see on screen that way and so I don't shake my head anymore but smile and laugh along with them. Motion controllers are a part of our virtual gaming reality finally, thank god.

Haha, figures, right after I post about the Wii controller, someone was busy typing up a post about it too. I agree wholeheartedly that the Wii is definitely a great accessory for new gamers. I see that as more of a stepping stone then playing old games and eventually evolving your gaming habits to the newer games.

 

[Mr.Pandah]

I think the hardest things to overcome for many people are undoubtedly the stereotypes. Until a year or so ago, my mom didn't even know games had stories. I'm not sure how that logic follows, but she somehow thought that when I played Halo, I just sat there alone and shot random things for no reason over a 10+ hour campaign.

People really don't understand that video games have value. They don't understand the social value nor the literary value that video games hold. It's hard to get into something when you see it as nothing more than a waste of time.

Now this one interests me. I've never heard of that one before. Perhaps Sony heard about your story and decided to base their Uncharted 2 commercial around it.

Well that's not the only example. When I first talked to my best friend's mom about how video games told great stories, I got that dismissal that you get when an adult is no doubt thinking "Oh, you're so cute with your little ideas: don't worry, you'll grow and be big and smart someday!" She completely dismissed my idea, and I still can't think of a good reason why.

I am a huge proponent of video games as a form of literature, so you can't even imagine all the crap I've gotten from many older people about this: people just don't get it.

Eh, I'm the same way, I just don't bother trying to explain it to people anymore though. I remember back when Okami first came out, and my mother was sitting down and glanced over at it and said how odd of a game it was. I told her about how great it was, all of the characters, the fleshed out story, the art form. She, thankfully, believed all of it and actually saw that the game was actually more then a game.

Another friend of mine who isn't always into games for their stories, was completely blown away by Shadow of the Collosus when I showed it to him. He bought the game the next day, and even though a story is almost non-existant, we both agreed that it was probably one of the best atmospheric games to date.

Edit: Sorry for the double post, but I have to go to bed. Duty calls. Hopefully this topic survives until I make it back here tomorrow.

 

[Mcface]

senses overload you'd get from something like Uncharted 2?

Agree, but a piss poor example.

Uncharted 2 is an extremely linear game that me and my girlfriend ease through on normal mode, she never really plays games.

Okay, if thats a poor example, then refer to the CoD4 picture I have up higher. *Its running on the PC, and thats a multiplayer game, but you get my drift*

Uncharted 2, while linear, is very bright and colorful and while running around and playing the game for over 2 hours without a break, my head even started to ache. Its not fun looking for treasures without some sort of guide in that game, trust me.

We don't need simpler controllers, just simpler games. Just because there are a ton of buttons on a controller doesn't mean that they all have to be used. The 360 or PS3 controller can play a simple side scrolling just as well as the NES controller, maybe even better with the sensitivity. A controller can be used by nearly anyone when all they have to do is press A or X and hold the left trigger or press the D-Pad. Both the PS3 and the Xbox 360 need simpler platforming games that can be accessed really easily. Bundle these with the console and call it a starter pack or something and you'll be able to get people into gaming and have them go up to more difficult games like CoD4. Keep those simple games coming though because they might not want to move up.

Yeah, I wasn't aiming for simpler controllers. I don't want to see that happening, since I'm perfectly fine with controllers the way they are. When you start talking like this, a starter pack would be the only way I could see this work. Because what if this happened, I buy a brand new console, fire up the new hot FPS or whatever, and I'm in over my head...way over my head. What do I do? Take the system back? No! I have to persist! But god damnit...I keep losing! Then I look around frantically and realize that I have to pay even more to learn how to grasp my controller and this new video game environment by buying another game that will inevitably lead me to playing the game I originally bought.

It seems a bit backwards, but...I guess it could be done. I really only see a Starter pack being of any use for this kind of mentality though.

The problem is people who are good at games (ie. hard core gamers) want games to become harder. What they dont realize, is while a hard game is awesome for us, who have been playing forever, its impossible for someone to acquire new skills if every game is as unforgiving as the next.

But so many games are so basic and generic these days, it shouldnt really be a problem.

 

[gbemery]

I think the hardest things to overcome for many people are undoubtedly the stereotypes. Until a year or so ago, my mom didn't even know games had stories. I'm not sure how that logic follows, but she somehow thought that when I played Halo, I just sat there alone and shot random things for no reason over a 10+ hour campaign.

People really don't understand that video games have value. They don't understand the social value nor the literary value that video games hold. It's hard to get into something when you see it as nothing more than a waste of time.

basically this and breaking people out of their comfort zones. Some people would rather just play 'casual' games as oppose to a getting into a game with a real story.

 

[Akai Shizuku]

The only problems in my opinion are too-damn-complex interfaces and controllers with OVER 9000 buttons on them.

(yes, that meme was appropriate, thank you)

 

[Romicron]

The realization that in the time it takes to complete a full game, that one could have done a whole host of other things, some of which are much more productive. If the games first chosen are not up to par, it will taint one's view of games. Truly great games are (debatably) worth the time spent.

 

[Thaius]

I think the hardest things to overcome for many people are undoubtedly the stereotypes. Until a year or so ago, my mom didn't even know games had stories. I'm not sure how that logic follows, but she somehow thought that when I played Halo, I just sat there alone and shot random things for no reason over a 10+ hour campaign.

People really don't understand that video games have value. They don't understand the social value nor the literary value that video games hold. It's hard to get into something when you see it as nothing more than a waste of time.

Now this one interests me. I've never heard of that one before. Perhaps Sony heard about your story and decided to base their Uncharted 2 commercial around it.

Well that's not the only example. When I first talked to my best friend's mom about how video games told great stories, I got that dismissal that you get when an adult is no doubt thinking "Oh, you're so cute with your little ideas: don't worry, you'll grow and be big and smart someday!" She completely dismissed my idea, and I still can't think of a good reason why.

I am a huge proponent of video games as a form of literature, so you can't even imagine all the crap I've gotten from many older people about this: people just don't get it.

Eh, I'm the same way, I just don't bother trying to explain it to people anymore though. I remember back when Okami first came out, and my mother was sitting down and glanced over at it and said how odd of a game it was. I told her about how great it was, all of the characters, the fleshed out story, the art form. She, thankfully, believed all of it and actually saw that the game was actually more then a game.

Another friend of mine who isn't always into games for their stories, was completely blown away by Shadow of the Collosus when I showed it to him. He bought the game the next day, and even though a story is almost non-existant, we both agreed that it was probably one of the best atmospheric games to date.

Edit: Sorry for the double post, but I have to go to bed. Duty calls. Hopefully this topic survives until I make it back here tomorrow.

Well Shadow of the Colossus may not have had the most complex or involved story, but you have to appreciate the storytelling displayed at the end.

Spoiler: Shadow of the Colossus

Despite the lack of any real plot development, you still felt for Wander and his struggle: this is possibly due to the epic feel and desperate-looking animations on Wander as he's swaying and struggling on the giant beasts. Anyway, when it came to the end, we were forced not only to watch, but to participate in our heroes demise. As he was being sucked in to the far room, we were given control. The entire game we had been put in compromising situations, always being provided some way to get out of them, but not this time. We tried walking him, rolling him, everything to get him away from his imminent doom, but it was no use. We had to fight in vain against the enemy that would finally defeat our hero. That was emotionally intense for me.

Sorry for the rant. Video games can leave quite the impact on my psyche through their storytelling prowess.

 

[badgersprite]

The hardest part about getting into gaming is finding the right game. If your first experience with video games is bad, you might decide that it's not the right thing for you. I can't really speak from personal experience because my Dad and cousin are both gamers, so I was basically raised on them the same way kids are raised on Disney movies. I guess getting into games later in life, if someone picked up an old-school FPS, they might wonder to themselves, "What's the point?" or, alternatively, they might associate all games with something like WoW and just think they don't like games in general.

I don't know. Pretty much, I think it's just a matter of whether or not console games are something you've just always expected to fit into your life. Because they've always been a part of my life, it's just something that came naturally to me. I wouldn't imagine not having a console in my household, the same way I wouldn't imagine not having a guitar after being given one by my uncle at age 3 or not having a computer when my Dad's been working with them longer than I've been alive.