Video Gaming

What We Want In Computers Is What We Want In Games

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Some time ago I wrote an essay that what people wanted in their computers was what they wanted in their neighborhoods: simple, accessible, clear. It was a strange essay, but one I think that made a point about how we often want similar things in seemly different and unrelated situations and technologies. It won't surprise you that I have another strange metaphor to yank out of the air and explore: that what we want in games is what we want in our technologies these days.

Let me back up for moment. Lately I've been trying to understand some of the trends in gaming, because frankly they don't make a lot of sense. We have an onslaught of casual games. We have vastly successful and complex MMOs. We have gaming appearing on every conceivable platform. I've wanted to get a grasp of these trends: and I think I have.

My take? That trends in computing and trends in gaming reflecting overall trend in culture and technology.

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MMOs and Success

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Last post I mentioned that I had come to the conclusions that MMO's would actually increase in market share and as part of gaming.  I believed this was due to the social nature they provided, the persistent and expanding content elements, and the financial benefits.

Though companies still need to make sure they reach enough people to take advantage of this success.  There are things that can remain undone – or done badly – that could slow successes of their products.  So what do I feel MMO's need to do to take advantage of a market that's in their favor (and not do it wrong)?

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Why MMO’s Have an Even Brighter Future

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I mentioned in a recent post that I'd been looking to purchase a new video game, and decided to wait for some titles because of the social effects of playing them – how I could share them, be part of a launch phenomena, etc.  This let me to further speculate on games with specific social aspects – namely, MMOs.

To put it bluntly, I think in today's age, MMO's are poised to do not only good, but better than they have.  I suspect as time goes on they will expand their hold on the market and onto multiple devices.

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