Maybe I just need something easier.

11 Apr 06

Since I was so sick, I had some time to think. I should have had time to game as well, but my energy levels were so low and my ability to concentrate so minimal, I didn't get any gaming in. I did begin to think about why gaming required so much energy. Even 'simple' action games require complex movements and combos to play. In general, I like greater depth in gameplay, but part of me misses the pick up and play games. Now small learning curve games can be picked up in 30 minutes. That got me to Nintendo.

I think I finally understand some of the thinking behind the Revolution. Warioware was one of the easiest games to pick up and play I can remember. It sold like hot cakes. It was just a collection of simple minigames. I think it opened Nintendo's eyes. Games that had simple themes that didn't even need an explanation like Nintendogs came next. Of course there are more Mario Party games than you can shake a stick at. I think they realized there were a lot of people who used to enjoy games that have been put off by the entry barrier. If they had games that were inexpensive, easy to pick up and play and could be stopped at any time, they could get those people back. They didn't even have to stop making games for their loyal fans.

Like Guitar Hero, I think you'll find a lot of Revolution games that people intuitively understand. Unlike Guitar Hero, the hardware making it possible is already there in the Revolution. I wouldn't be surprised to see smaller collections of simple games being released at budget prices. They might even have a pick up and play line of games with special packaging and a lower standard price kind of like the player's choice (greatest hits) line now.

Sure, the hardcore can dismiss them as kiddie and simple, but I bet the best of the games will appeal to nearly everyone. I know as a 'hardcore' gamer, I wouldn't mind have some easy, quick and fun games in my collection. Xbox Live Arcade works in a similar way, but Microsoft will have to radically change the perception of the Xbox line to get non gamers. Nintendo already means fun gaming for everyone. Perhaps this Revolution just might work.

Jason