Ben-DutkaWhen a new gameplay system or mechanic really takes off, developers like to use it. A lot.
Sometimes, though, it reaches a point where the once-attractive feature has waned, and everyone is tired of it.
Which is it for you? Is there one particular mechanic developers continue to use that either A. Feels tired and overused, B. Just drives you nuts, or C. Both…?
For me, I think it has to be the QTE (Quick Time Event). When we first started seeing it in great games like Resident Evil 4 and God of War , it was an incredible new form of interactive action that seemed to simultaneously simplify and engage. It didn't require that you pull off some sort of amazing button combination, but at the same time, it didn't remove you entirely from a series of splendidly choreographed events (ala the old-fashioned cut-scene). Some designers implemented this system better than others but for the most part, I liked it.
Now, I'm just getting tired of it. Maybe it was Beyond: Two Souls that pushed me over the edge, or maybe it's simply because I've grown bored. I understand the concept and of course, it can still work very well. However, I think it has overstayed its welcome and it's time for developers to come up with something new. Even an interesting variation on the tried-and-true QTE formula would be refreshing.
How's about you?