I’m not quite if I’ve asked this before, but it’s something that just came to my mind. I, for one, appreciate the subtle nods we see in Miyazaki soulslikes. However, it can get quite frustrating to play a game and not know what the hell is going on. So I personally prefer more direct storytelling a la Lies of P or Sekiro.
It’s a delicate balance, though, since too direct storytelling can lead to an overall “dumbed down” story. The layers of meaning can get lost in the “tell, don’t show” approach.
What do you prefer?
For me personally, video games are interactive stories. I want a good plot, engaging characters and setting, and to be able to experience it through a protagonist whose actions I control. I want to feel like I’m living in this world, making the decisions the hero would choose.
When I’m dumped into a game world where the objective is “run around and have fun!,” I don’t really know what to do. I don’t understand where I am or what’s going on. And the process of discovering the plot can be long and arduous, which just takes me out of the game. Especially if there are complex mechanics like skill trees or gear leveling, etc. I don’t want to grind in a game just to advance, give me a better flow to the story and progression!