It seems violence in video games is under constant scrutiny by the media. Loads of ‘concerned citizens’, most of whom don’t even game, are behind the idea of banning this game and halting production on that game because they are offended by the content.
Everyone is entitled to their own point of view. And as an avid gamer, I have my own opinions about what is offensive.
Forced cut scenes should be outlawed!
Ok look… I’m one of those lonely geeks who actually plays the campaign mode of a first person shooter. I know live online battle is the rave these days but hey, I like a good interactive story.
In fact a solid story line is one of the big reasons I play video games in the first place. It’s like watching a movie, only having direct control of the outcome.
Having said all this, it really ticks me off when a game designer decides to make the cut scenes mandatory. I shelled out bucks for the game, and I should be able to close out the cut scenes and get right back to the action if I so choose.
I especially get irked when, as is the case with the otherwise great game Area 51, these mandatory cut scenes are placed in crucial areas that totally disrupt your focus.
For example, a player should NEVER be required to view a cut scene right before a major boss battle.
Why? Simple.
If you get kiled off during the battle, you then have to cycle back through the cut scene. This totally kills your adrenaline and makes it tough for you to stay sharp.
In my opinion, the concept of mandatory cut scenes was hatched by some insecure dork who got picked on his whole life, then decided to lash out at society by imposing his will on others through ill-placed cut scenes that don’t allow a gamer to exit.
