Is it me or is the RPG genre slightly dying? [Archive]

Borg1982

07-12-2008, 08:44 PM

By slightly, I mean that it is not headed for full destruction and there is no sign for that at all. For example, The PC will always continue to come out with MMORPGs and such.

But think about it. Since PS1 came out, they've been the carrier of the most RPGs one could play since the SNES. When PS2 came out, they ended up being the next generation of a large amount of RPGs. Those were the consoles we went to for RPGs.

The handhelds we went to for RPGs were not bad, either. GBC had some. GBA, which came out a little after PS2, ended up being a huge carrier of RPGs.

In the present day the very company we went to for RPGs for 12 years (Sony) has failed us tremendously. If you goto Gamespot and sort PS3 by RPGs-Only, you'll get Elder Scrolls which I personally own for the 360 already, and you'll get a couple more with not-so-good scores. A COUPLE MORE!? PS3 HAS BEEN OUT FOR A FEW YEARS AND THERE ARE A COUPLE-A RPGS FOR IT!!!!!!!???????

................. <-- thats all I can say now.

After the SNES, Nintendo's main consoles have been RPG failures. Gamecube perhaps did the best of the post-SNES Nintendo consoles but its just not enough.

The GBC and GBA I said has done very well and on the upside the DS has come out with a handful of RPGs every year since its release. So is the conclusion here that DS is the only thing left truly providing?

But back to the overall big picture, no wonder why I feel theres a big void in my life.

Comments.... :(

Atlas

07-12-2008, 08:54 PM

The PSP and DS remakes can only go so far so I figure when they run out of those, they'll realize that they need to start making some really good, original titles.

Hopefull the PS3 will start to house more great RPGs like we saw on it's predecessors.

King Zeal

07-13-2008, 12:49 AM

In the present day the very company we went to for RPGs for 12 years (Sony) has failed us tremendously. If you goto Gamespot and sort PS3 by RPGs-Only, you'll get Elder Scrolls which I personally own for the 360 already, and you'll get a couple more with not-so-good scores. A COUPLE MORE!? PS3 HAS BEEN OUT FOR A FEW YEARS AND THERE ARE A COUPLE-A RPGS FOR IT!!!!!!!???????

Welcome to the 21st Century.

I said it a long time ago: Halo and Grand Theft Auto 3 brought an end to the "golden age" of the console RPG. At least in the states, anyway. After those two games came out, first-person shooters and free-roaming adventure games became the toast of the industry.

And, now, I have to make an amendment to that statement. After the Wii was released, the industry changed again. Now, casual games like Wii Sports, Wii Fit, Cooking Mama, and other games that gamers can invite their parents, grandparents, or girlfriends to play are what drives sales in the gaming industry.

Role-playing games are just niche titles once again, that's all. But, before you bemoan how scarce that are, let me ask you something: Have you played Tales of the Abyss? Eternal Sonata? Enchanted Arms? Mass Effect? Rogue Galaxy? Or any of the other obscure RPG titles being released? Have you played all of those?

If not, that would answer your concerns. Until people start showing they're willing to take a chance on RPGs, developers won't respond in kind.

Sushi_b

07-13-2008, 08:36 AM

It's true, as Zeal said. The Wii, in particular this generation, has really put a focus on family fun and RPGs don't exactly qualify for such a bill. Don't be so hasty to down play RPGs as a whole. We still get a number of great games year in and year out. Be happy with what we get and enjoy the games for all they are worth.

As for Sony, oh well. Xbox now has a pretty good selection of RPG titles for people to play. So be it. Besides, in all honesty, how many RPGs does Sony themselves make? Not many. Dark Cloud series is the first to mind.

Siyama

07-14-2008, 02:19 AM

Hmm ... this thread must be where Moderators come and make unintelligent comments.

Well, for those who still lives under a nutshell (and consider themselves kings of infinite) - qoute from Shakespeare (hope the man don't mind), there's some new flash for you.

Halo - not so great. Just another FPS but with better graphics, sound effects and weapons. Nothing great about it in term of story (if it has one).

GTA - got banned in several countries in Europe for protraying violence. It even sparked racial issues because black people were potrayed as criminals and scenes where characters can pick up a gun and shoot cops. I think there was a major issue regarding this in Los Angeles about a year ago.

And Microsoft have to employee Asia programmers to create RPG games for X-Box because those where the ONLY way X-Box going to break into Asian market.

You boys in US may think that the World revolves around you (and US in general), but in reality, we in Asia don't need craps like Halo or Doom or Quake to get out fun engine started.

So, to answer the question whether RPG is dying ... No, it is just in your head.

Sushi_b

07-14-2008, 03:24 AM

Hmm ... this thread must be where Moderators come and make unintelligent comments.
Ouch, I'm hurt but those words. It's not as if your words are so much higher then the rest of us.

Halo - not so great. Just another FPS but with better graphics, sound effects and weapons. Nothing great about it in term of story (if it has one).

GTA - got banned in several countries in Europe for protraying violence. It even sparked racial issues because black people were potrayed as criminals and scenes where characters can pick up a gun and shoot cops. I think there was a major issue regarding this in Los Angeles about a year ago.

I agree with the Halo statement. I've never been a fan of the series. It doesn't bother me as such, but I just have no interest in it.

As for LA, it sounds like you are refering to the Rodney King issue. That was already over 10 years ago and wasn't sparked by GTA. If that is what you are talking about.

And Microsoft have to employee Asia programmers to create RPG games for X-Box because those where the ONLY way X-Box going to break into Asian market.
Haven't played Mass Effect, have you?

You boys in US may think that the World revolves around you (and US in general), but in reality, we in Asia don't need craps like Halo or Doom or Quake to get out fun engine started.

So, to answer the question whether RPG is dying ... No, it is just in your head.
I'm not living in the US. Even still, not everyone in the US or otherwise are only playing FPS as you are stating.

Each market has different tastes and that's the way it is. Japan has it's dating sims, Europe has it's football management sims and US has it's FPS. That doesn't mean that there aren't people around the world who enjoy those genre's as well as others.

Borg1982

07-14-2008, 04:00 AM

PS3:

I would have been happy if the PS3 came out with sequels to PS2 RPGs. Then, it would have close to a hundred by the consoles end. RPG FULFILLED: 0%

DS:

If the DS continues to come out with more RPGs, it'll at least match the GBA. RPG FULFILLED: 40% (60% once FF4, Dragon quest 4, 5, and 6, 9 come out).

Wii:

Nintendo lost me with regards to RPGs a long time ago. The n64 was a RPG failure. Pretty bad format to make RPGs with anyway. This is why FF went over to Sony.
The Wii has a DVD format now and can develop brilliant RPGs, but devs fail to do so.
RPG FULFILLED: 5% (DQ Swords...)

360:

I wish the 360 had a ton more JRPGs, my favorite type. RPG FULFILLED: 30%

Siyama

07-14-2008, 04:28 AM

Sushi_b :

As for LA, it sounds like you are refering to the Rodney King issue. That was already over 10 years ago and wasn't sparked by GTA. If that is what you are talking about.

No Sir, Rodney King case is during the L.A Riot. Someone have shot video of bunch of cops stopping Rodney by the street during those time and beat the crap out of him. It was a major embarrestment to the LAPD during that time. 1998 or 1999 if not mistaken.

The case about the GTA sparking dissatisfaction among the gamers and public over its protray of characters able to shoot cops and potraying black men as criminals came out after the GTA - San Diego (something). Forgot the actual name. I think it was around 2004 or 2005.

Haven't played Mass Effect, have you?

Never even heard of Mass Effect.

Each market has different tastes and that's the way it is. Japan has it's dating sims, Europe has it's football management sims and US has it's FPS. That doesn't mean that there aren't people around the world who enjoy those genre's as well as others.

You forgot that Koreans have this madness about MMORPG. But agreed ... different people have different game types which they like.

Sushi_b

07-14-2008, 06:20 AM

Sushi_b :

The case about the GTA sparking dissatisfaction among the gamers and public over its protray of characters able to shoot cops and potraying black men as criminals came out after the GTA - San Diego (something). Forgot the actual name. I think it was around 2004 or 2005.
Haven't heard about that one. Strange though because I thought that people were complaining before San Andreas that the main character was white and he was able to run around and kill people of every other ethnicity. Basically it seems that GTA will just always bring about some sort of debate.

Never even heard of Mass Effect.

Your missing out. I'm pretty sure the game has come out in most regions. Where are you located?

You forgot that Koreans have this madness about MMORPG. But agreed ... different people have different game types which they like.
I never forgot. I think it's not possible to forget the addictions that Koreans have with online gaming. They play MMORPGs, but RTS and FPS are just as popular.

Matron

07-14-2008, 06:30 AM

I don't think that anything is dying, just that rpgs are experiencing a bit of a downward cycle in popularity. That doesn't mean that there aren't still great RPGs out and coming out though. Mass Effect (from what I've seen, haven't played it myself yet) was great, Blue Dragon was loads of fun, Lost Odyssey, FFXII was still fun, Persona 3, Persona 4 is coming out. There are a lot of games on the schedule for this year and early next that sound interesting and I'm going to be trying out.

It's not that there are no great RPGs being released, it's just that right now, the FPS games are what is hot, so they are what is getting all the press, and so of course, that is what all the developers are pushing out right now. I remember when Resident Evil first hit, and suddenly every other game to hit the shelves was some knock off version of the game. RPGs will get their time in the spotlight again someday, and for now, we just have even more reason to treasure the truly great gems that we get today.

Siyama

07-14-2008, 06:36 AM

Haven't heard about that one. Strange though because I thought that people were complaining before San Andreas that the main character was white and he was able to run around and kill people of every other ethnicity. Basically it seems that GTA will just always bring about some sort of debate.

Yup, GTA San Andreas. And yeah, the main character was a white guy but many of the characters inside were black men who potrayed as gang members. Also, not to mention that you can shoot cops.

Your missing out. I'm pretty sure the game has come out in most regions. Where are you located?

South East Asia region - Malaysia to be exact.

I never forgot. I think it's not possible to forget the addictions that Koreans have with online gaming. They play MMORPGs, but RTS and FPS are just as popular.

I think they are interested in MMORPGs because it allows them to create online community where they could get together, form clans, solve (game) problems, talk for hours and maybe find a date.

I have a girlfriend who into World of Warcraft, and she spends most of her time chatting with friends online rather than whacking monsters. Personally, I didn't play any MMORPGs (yet).

Sushi_b

07-14-2008, 07:00 AM

Yup, GTA San Andreas. And yeah, the main character was a white guy but many of the characters inside were black men who potrayed as gang members. Also, not to mention that you can shoot cops.

Wait, but do you mean the fact that the main character was black or that he was white? In San Andreas the main character was black, the first time for the series as I'm aware. GTA III, IV and Vice City all feature white males in the lead role. But I think I get the point of what you are stating.

South East Asia region - Malaysia to be exact.

Strange that the game hasn't been released there. If that's the case. I know it's available in Chinese and Korean for sure. If you can track the game down, you might like it. Read up on it first though. I'm not sure what kind of RPGs you are interested in.

I think they are interested in MMORPGs because it allows them to create online community where they could get together, form clans, solve (game) problems, talk for hours and maybe find a date.

I have a girlfriend who into World of Warcraft, and she spends most of her time chatting with friends online rather than whacking monsters. Personally, I didn't play any MMORPGs (yet).
It's partly that and partly due to the market crashing here in the 1990s. When a ton of business' went bankrupt a lot of young workers had no jobs and were left with tons of free time. They all started playing games, PC in particular because it was cheaper to buy or play one locally then to purchase a home console. People started to get addicted to games such as Starcraft and others.

They really do have quite an addiction to PC games here. Baffling at times almost. I know lots of people can be like that and it's too bad to see.

Siyama

07-14-2008, 07:54 AM

Wait, but do you mean the fact that the main character was black or that he was white? In San Andreas the main character was black, the first time for the series as I'm aware. GTA III, IV and Vice City all feature white males in the lead role. But I think I get the point of what you are stating.[QUOTE]

Frankly speaking, I have no idea. I just seen the game played by others. He seems to have dark-brown skin, and I thought it was a white man who have a stronge tan. All I know is that GTA San Andreas have upset a lot of ppl who thinks that the game have potrayed black men as criminals. Funny cos white men who behave like criminals seems to be OK to black people.

[QUOTE] Strange that the game hasn't been released there. If that's the case. I know it's available in Chinese and Korean for sure. If you can track the game down, you might like it. Read up on it first though. I'm not sure what kind of RPGs you are interested in.

Maybe it is released in PC version. I won't know cos I'm not a big fan of PC games.

I'm interested in the regular type of RPG - FF, Shin Megami Tensei, Valkyrie's Profiles ... those type,

It's partly that and partly due to the market crashing here in the 1990s. When a ton of business' went bankrupt a lot of young workers had no jobs and were left with tons of free time. They all started playing games, PC in particular because it was cheaper to buy or play one locally then to purchase a home console. People started to get addicted to games such as Starcraft and others.

Better than doing crime during tough times I guess. I always thought that people interested in online gaming because they have interest in interacting with other people.

They really do have quite an addiction to PC games here. Baffling at times almost. I know lots of people can be like that and it's too bad to see.

What so bad about that? Better than hanging out in singles bars. At least I know that my girlfriend will be at home, playing video games whenever I need to talk to her.

Sushi_b

07-14-2008, 10:25 AM

Frankly speaking, I have no idea. I just seen the game played by others. He seems to have dark-brown skin, and I thought it was a white man who have a stronge tan. All I know is that GTA San Andreas have upset a lot of ppl who thinks that the game have potrayed black men as criminals. Funny cos white men who behave like criminals seems to be OK to black people.

I think it was a lot to do with the HOT COFFEE mod as well. That seemed to be in the news a lot more from a video game perspective anyways.

Maybe it is released in PC version. I won't know cos I'm not a big fan of PC games.
There is a PC version, but it was released on the 360 first. Look into it some more if you are interested. That said it's not a traditional RPG at all in that regard. It's different but has a fantastic music score, story and characterization.

I'm interested in the regular type of RPG - FF, Shin Megami Tensei, Valkyrie's Profiles ... those type,
Mostly JRPGs then. That's cool, but also be open minded to other adventures that are out there as well.

Better than doing crime during tough times I guess. I always thought that people interested in online gaming because they have interest in interacting with other people.
Nothing wrong with that. Until it becomes your entire life and all you do is play that particular game in every spare moment you have. Then it's become a problem.

What so bad about that? Better than hanging out in singles bars. At least I know that my girlfriend will be at home, playing video games whenever I need to talk to her.
I would never argue against that. It's just a little disheartening to see when people don't know when then need to unplug and rest for a while, get out see the world and make sure that they still exist away from the game. I was more or less thinking of the younger kids, I didn't mention it specifically, who are cramming around PCs and TVs all the time.

Siyama

07-15-2008, 04:03 AM

I think it was a lot to do with the HOT COFFEE mod as well. That seemed to be in the news a lot more from a video game perspective anyways.

Unfortunately, ppl don't see thinks from game perspective or movie perspective. Any time someone sees something they don't like, they go berserk and state that others are out to get them.

However, in GTA case, I have to agree. I dislike games which has too much violence. But degree of violence acceptable could be a topic of discussion cos different ppl will feel different degree is a suitable one. Hell, ppl could think GTA is not violent enough, and some could say that Super Mario game could be too violent cos it features Mario hitting others with hammer.

There is a PC version, but it was released on the 360 first. Look into it some more if you are interested. That said it's not a traditional RPG at all in that regard. It's different but has a fantastic music score, story and characterization.

No wonder I have never heard of it. I don't own a 360 nor know any friends who does. Most of my friends own a PS2, and some play PC version (mostly football games). RPG in PC is not something they could go for.

Mostly JRPGs then. That's cool, but also be open minded to other adventures that are out there as well.

Well, when comes to Western-type of games, I usually go for Action Adventure like Metal Gear, Resident Evil and such. Not much RPG came out of the West which attracted my attention. Maybe most of this games were made for PC and not console engine.

Nothing wrong with that. Until it becomes your entire life and all you do is play that particular game in every spare moment you have. Then it's become a problem.

Well, working adults don't have much spare time to spend. On weekends, go to the Mall and do window-shopping. At home, spend it playing games or playing with my nephew and neice. That's how my life goes, and I have no problem with either.

I would never argue against that. It's just a little disheartening to see when people don't know when then need to unplug and rest for a while, get out see the world and make sure that they still exist away from the game. I was more or less thinking of the younger kids, I didn't mention it specifically, who are cramming around PCs and TVs all the time.

I blame it on adults and parents. If they give more time for their kids by taking them out, maybe the kids couldn't rely on the games (or TV) to fill their need for attention.

Jarrid

07-15-2008, 07:23 AM

I blame it on adults and parents. If they give more time for their kids by taking them out, maybe the kids couldn't rely on the games (or TV) to fill their need for attention.

In response to that, I will probably raise my kids playing videogames, but I could not agree with you more on that. Even though my family did not do a whole lot with each other due to problems, and I just practically played videogames the whole time, I do think that what you said is a big problem. It seems like parents are not paying enough attention to their kids and getting them out of the house to do other activities that do not require a controller and TV. There are tons of psychological issues that can go wrong with all of that.

King Zeal

07-15-2008, 07:52 PM

Oh dear God, Ryong is back.

Halo - not so great. Just another FPS but with better graphics, sound effects and weapons. Nothing great about it in term of story (if it has one).

GTA - got banned in several countries in Europe for protraying violence. It even sparked racial issues because black people were potrayed as criminals and scenes where characters can pick up a gun and shoot cops. I think there was a major issue regarding this in Los Angeles about a year ago.

I agree, but you missed my point. My point is that GTA and Halo both sell millions of copies in the United States these days while most JRPGs don't even hope to get similar sales numbers. Because of that, Western developers will make Halo and GTA clones instead of RPGs. What I was saying, for better or worse, is that western developers would rather make first-person shooters and free-roaming adventure games. I didn't say that I think those games are better.

You boys in US may think that the World revolves around you (and US in general), but in reality, we in Asia don't need craps like Halo or Doom or Quake to get out fun engine started.

Asia regularly comes out with crappy games just as much as America does. The Sexy Beach and Battle Raper series spring to mind.

Well, when comes to Western-type of games, I usually go for Action Adventure like Metal Gear, Resident Evil and such.

Neither Metal Gear nor Resident Evil are "western". They were both made in Japan. They just happen to have American protagonists.

What so bad about that? Better than hanging out in singles bars. At least I know that my girlfriend will be at home, playing video games whenever I need to talk to her.

Yeah, but that's the thing. People who have a gaming obsession (key word here) don't want to talk to anyone or do anything other than play games. People who are videogame shut-ins let their personal live suffer while trying to perfect their life in the game.

Matron

07-15-2008, 08:10 PM

I raise my kids playing video games. I play, they play, we play together, and it's just a family thing for us, just like some families get together and play football or cards. We play games.

I come to places like this to talk about games (and other stuff), but also to learn. I like knowing what is to come, what is popular. I like having a place that I can ask for advice, I can ask about various games my son wants, and learn if they are appropriate for a kid his age, how the game play is, etc.

Gaming is just a part of who we are as a family. Sure, there are times when everyone is holed up for a few days playing something on their own, but there are also times when we are all playing on the Wii together, or when me, my son, and my husband are playing WoW together, or my husband plays Zelda with our youngest daughter, teaching her how to get the sword, how to solve the puzzles. I know that because of gaming, my family spends a lot more time together than I ever spent with my own parents growing up. It gives us something in common, something to do together. With my kids getting older, I'll take any common ground I can find. (also, it really makes you a cool mom when your son's friend comes in and sees you playing something like Bioshock or Metal Gear;) )

Another funny thing about raising them this way- my 5 year old doesn't ask me to braid her hair- she asks for a Lara Croft. That always makes me laugh.

Siyama

07-16-2008, 02:52 AM

In response to that, I will probably raise my kids playing videogames, but I could not agree with you more on that. Even though my family did not do a whole lot with each other due to problems, and I just practically played videogames the whole time, I do think that what you said is a big problem. It seems like parents are not paying enough attention to their kids and getting them out of the house to do other activities that do not require a controller and TV. There are tons of psychological issues that can go wrong with all of that.

Psychology - Art of making everything looks bad so they could make money trying to screw things up. :D

Look ... if you're a parent and only time you have for your kids are time enough for playing games, just play the games (with your kids). I don't think anything wrong with that. Just don't yank the controller away from your kids and dominate the game. Allow them to play and you can explain things as it goes along.

PS : Choose good games, and don't go playing FPS with your kids. We don't want them growing up screwed up, do we?

Oh dear God, Ryong is back.

I agree, but you missed my point. My point is that GTA and Halo both sell millions of copies in the United States these days while most JRPGs don't even hope to get similar sales numbers. Because of that, Western developers will make Halo and GTA clones instead of RPGs. What I was saying, for better or worse, is that western developers would rather make first-person shooters and free-roaming adventure games. I didn't say that I think those games are better.

Never left ... forgot my password, didn't save it anywhere. Lazy to create a new one, then Raidou kept bugging me to rejoin. So, here's I am ... fresh start.

Number of sales means nothing here. At one time, FF8 sold over a million copy when it was released in Asia (and Europe).

Look, if they kept making the same type of game with the same style of playing, sooner or later, ppl going to be bored out of their heads with this sort of games. That is why FPS are not very famous in Asia and why Microsoft have to hire Asian programmers to create RPG titles for X-Box.

Asia regularly comes out with crappy games just as much as America does. The Sexy Beach and Battle Raper series spring to mind.

And games like Guy Games, Playboy Mansion, GTA and a few others does come to mind when talking about Western games also. Yes, both side makes crappy games now and then.

Neither Metal Gear nor Resident Evil are "western". They were both made in Japan. They just happen to have American protagonists.

Made in Japan, famous in US and Europe. How many games from US and Europe could be made there but become famous in Asia? I could say Wizardry could be one of them, but you have to remember, Asians love RPG games.

Yeah, but that's the thing. People who have a gaming obsession (key word here) don't want to talk to anyone or do anything other than play games. People who are videogame shut-ins let their personal live suffer while trying to perfect their life in the game.

Same way drug addicts behave. Only different here is game brings about obsession while drugs brings about addictions. Same principle, same effect, different medium.

Blame it on the users, not the medium.

Raidou

07-16-2008, 03:08 AM

I know you folks will miss him, so I kept bugging him to come back. Fun isnt it?

p.s: FPS sux, totally agree. Motion sickness is no fun too.

Edit: GTA super sux!

Double edit: Xbox360 uber ultra sux! PS3 rulez!

Matron

07-16-2008, 03:26 AM

Psychology - Art of making everything looks bad so they could make money trying to screw things up. :D

Look ... if you're a parent and only time you have for your kids are time enough for playing games, just play the games (with your kids). I don't think anything wrong with that. Just don't yank the controller away from your kids and dominate the game. Allow them to play and you can explain things as it goes along.

PS : Choose good games, and don't go playing FPS with your kids. We don't want them growing up screwed up, do we?

Don't go making such broad statements.

My son, who will be 13 in just a few hours, loves FPS games, and all shooter games, Gears of War, Call of Duty, Rainbow Six Vegas, etc. He is not in the least screwed up, and not violent (any more than any other 13 yr old lol).

And we share the games, we don't fight over them, we all play. If it's something we all enjoy, we take turns, no fighting, no hogging.

King Zeal

07-16-2008, 04:23 AM

Never left ... forgot my password, didn't save it anywhere. Lazy to create a new one, then Raidou kept bugging me to rejoin. So, here's I am ... fresh start.

Number of sales means nothing here. At one time, FF8 sold over a million copy when it was released in Asia (and Europe).

Look, if they kept making the same type of game with the same style of playing, sooner or later, ppl going to be bored out of their heads with this sort of games. That is why FPS are not very famous in Asia and why Microsoft have to hire Asian programmers to create RPG titles for X-Box.

Again, you miss my point. I'm explaining why RPGs don't sell as much as first-person shooters and GTA clones in America. Whether or not the sales mean anything means nothing to my statement. I'm not saying that one type of game is better than another, so I don't understand why you keep bringing up the quality argument.

And games like Guy Games, Playboy Mansion, GTA and a few others does come to mind when talking about Western games also. Yes, both side makes crappy games now and then.

I'm glad we could agree here, then.

Made in Japan, famous in US and Europe. How many games from US and Europe could be made there but become famous in Asia? I could say Wizardry could be one of them, but you have to remember, Asians love RPG games.

Everquest and World of Warcraft has millions of users in Asia. Rock Band is highly popular in Japan. Grand Theft Auto and Call of Duty 4 both get respectaable numbers.

It's not impossible for Western games to sell in Asia.

Same way drug addicts behave. Only different here is game brings about obsession while drugs brings about addictions. Same principle, same effect, different medium.

Blame it on the users, not the medium.

When did I blame anybody for anything?

Siyama

07-16-2008, 05:08 AM

Don't go making such broad statements.

My son, who will be 13 in just a few hours, loves FPS games, and all shooter games, Gears of War, Call of Duty, Rainbow Six Vegas, etc. He is not in the least screwed up, and not violent (any more than any other 13 yr old lol).

And we share the games, we don't fight over them, we all play. If it's something we all enjoy, we take turns, no fighting, no hogging.

Give a few more years. I'm sure he will be needing psychiatric help by then.

PS : don't keep guns in the house.

Again, you miss my point. I'm explaining why RPGs don't sell as much as first-person shooters and GTA clones in America. Whether or not the sales mean anything means nothing to my statement. I'm not saying that one type of game is better than another, so I don't understand why you keep bringing up the quality argument. [QUOTE]

And why is it again that RPG doesn't sell as much as FPS in America again? I must have missed that point.

[QUOTE]I'm glad we could agree here, then.
OK.

Everquest and World of Warcraft has millions of users in Asia. Rock Band is highly popular in Japan. Grand Theft Auto and Call of Duty 4 both get respectaable numbers.

WoW in Online version - Yes, I could agree. Everquest for PC version, well, I guess I could go with that. I have not seen much of Everquest in Console version for the past few years.

It's not impossible for Western games to sell in Asia.
Not impossible. Any games could sell with the right marketing strategy.

When did I blame anybody for anything?

So what's with the talk about games and how it promote obsession again?

Matron

07-16-2008, 05:33 AM

*sighs*

Gross generalizations like that just make you look like an idiot.

If all I used to parent my kids was FPS games, then you might have a point. However, I do far more than just plunk the boy down in front of the tv. We've had numerous talks about how games aren't real, how you can't shoot away your problems, and about gun safety. And yes, we have guns, and yes, the boy can shoot. We've taught him how to shoot, and we've shown him the consequences, that everything you shoot doesn't get back up or respawn like in video games or cartoons. And we keep what we have locked away, very safe.

He is one of the most well adjusted, well behaved kids that I have come across, and I'm not just saying that because I'm his mom. He never gets into trouble, in or out of school, because I do my job as a parent, and video games don't have a damn thing to do with that job, other than educating myself about the games, and educating him about reality and virtual reality.

Hyde

07-16-2008, 06:05 AM

There is to be NO insulting of anyone's kids on the forum, Ryong....

Don't do it. Keep the discussion where it belongs.

JustATemp

07-16-2008, 08:14 AM

In my opinion, the reason RPGs are waning is because more people are buying games that don't want to be pulled into the storyline, they don't want plot development. they want a game where they can sit down and in 2 minutes, they're halfway through the stage. it's all about instant gratification, i tell you.

i've always said a good rpg is the same as a good book. and who reads nowadays? nobody. it's digital masturbation, nothing more. and it's sad.

Priest4hire

07-16-2008, 11:56 AM

RPGs aren't anything like novels. Of all the genres, interactive fiction is most like a novel. After that it would be adventure (point & click, traditional or whatever you want to call it). The death of the adventure game demonstrated where pure storytelling in games sits on the totem pole.

If RPGs are waning I think it's the result of a number of issues. Many gamers want a more direct and intense experience which does tie into gratification. Also consider how the console golden age started. Final Fantasy VII might have gotten good reviews of the story but it was the flashy cutscenes and style that made it so popular. The other genres have since caught on. RPGs have also banked a great deal on nostalgia which is fine for the existing fanbase but doesn't necessarily lead to growth.

At the same time Bioware has grown into quite a significant developer by just making RPGs. Obsidian is doing pretty good as well. If it's a niche genre it's one that still very much alive. And don't forget what the early days of the PS1 was like for RPGs.

PS. Actually, the rumors of adventure gaming's death have been greatly exaggerated. If Jane Jansen is making a new game then all can't be lost.

Luisfe

07-16-2008, 06:01 PM

I can't wait for Jane Jensen's new game
But goddamnit I wanted my Gabriel Knight 4, damn you cryptic hints and stuff about ghosts!

Void

07-16-2008, 09:56 PM

I don't really see the genre as dying. It's just that RPG elements can be found in other games too. If anything, every other game is catching up to RPGs. Now there are millions of sub-genres, and the straight forward genres are less and less.

There aren't as many puzzle games being released these days, but more games have puzzles in them than say, 20 years ago, when the only puzzles in a Mario game were 'which block has the secret warp vine in it?'

Siyama

07-17-2008, 03:25 AM

There is to be NO insulting of anyone's kids on the forum, Ryong....

Don't do it. Keep the discussion where it belongs.

It's Siyama now. And yeah, sure. We will leave the happy mother alone.

In my opinion, the reason RPGs are waning is because more people are buying games that don't want to be pulled into the storyline, they don't want plot development. they want a game where they can sit down and in 2 minutes, they're halfway through the stage. it's all about instant gratification, i tell you.

i've always said a good rpg is the same as a good book. and who reads nowadays? nobody. it's digital masturbation, nothing more. and it's sad.

Hmm ... funny cos this is why people could go to the movies, or watch TV shows or Soap Operas. They WANT plot development, they want to see how characters interacts and they want to see emotions which they cannot experience in real life. You're saying that people going to stop watching TV or stop going to the movies now?

And no, don't say it is not the same. It is. Only difference between a RPG and movies (or TV shows) is that in the game, the gamers have the choice to interact with the virtual environment and shape the story (up to a certain level).

PS : Masturbation maybe good for you, but RPG is like a hot sex with a hot babe. You can't beat that. :D

RPGs aren't anything like novels.

I beg to differ.

RPG IS LIKE A NOVEL. What? You think you can take a great novel like Lord of the Rings and shove it into a FPS and have the same effect? Hell no, but you can (and they have) shove the same novel into a RPG game and have better effect than you could have reading a book. Because reading a book, you will have to imagine the whole thing, playing a game, you just have to immerse in the already imaginative world.

That is the limitation of a FPS. You have all sort of weapons, armour, tanks and bla bla bla, but you will still run around a tree or a hill, looking at someone's a$$, trying to shoot him while he will be staring at your a$$ trying to shoot you. FPS games are like a dog chasing its own tail. :D

Raidou

07-17-2008, 03:31 AM

Hey Siyama stop it. I don't like FPS too but no point to be linking that to parenthood ya. Is true that some folks in the US does have issues when parenting kids but that does not mean playing video game at home with kids is a sin! It is proven that kids that grow up playing video games from young are much better in making decisions and faster in problem-solving. So please, stop generalizing.

PS : Masturbation maybe good for you, but RPG is like a hot sex with a hot babe. You can't beat that.

WTF!????

Siyama

07-17-2008, 03:37 AM

Hey Siyama stop it. I don't like FPS too but no point to be linking that to parenthood ya. Is true that some folks in the US does have issues when parenting kids but that does not mean playing video game at home with kids is a sin! It is proven that kids that grow up playing video games from young are much better in making decisions and faster in problem-solving. So please, stop generalizing.

WTF!????

Whatever ... leave it be.

Well, the other guy says that FPS is like mastubarting ... sure, I could agree. But RPG is like having sex with a hot babe. Got my drift? :D

Matron

07-18-2008, 12:53 AM

It's Siyama now. And yeah, sure. We will leave the happy mother alone.

Don't do so on my account.

Just don't make gross generalizations about parenting unless you are one, and don't talk about my kids having psychological problems unless you have met me or my kids, which will never happen.

Hyde

07-18-2008, 02:33 AM

It's Siyama now. And yeah, sure. We will leave the happy mother alone.

Trust me...it's gonna be Ryong until I get to write on your report card "Plays Well With Others..."

And "We" ? There's only one of you, praise be to Odin...

Priest4hire

07-18-2008, 06:13 AM

RPG IS LIKE A NOVEL. What? You think you can take a great novel like Lord of the Rings and shove it into a FPS and have the same effect? Hell no, but you can (and they have) shove the same novel into a RPG game and have better effect than you could have reading a book. Because reading a book, you will have to imagine the whole thing, playing a game, you just have to immerse in the already imaginative world.

That is the limitation of a FPS. You have all sort of weapons, armour, tanks and bla bla bla, but you will still run around a tree or a hill, looking at someone's a$$, trying to shoot him while he will be staring at your a$$ trying to shoot you. FPS games are like a dog chasing its own tail. :D

What is your issue with first person shooters? Why do you keep dragging them into the conversation? In no way does the status of a FPS relative to novels have any bearing on whether a RPG is like a novel. However, your argument in favour of RPGs not only doesn't show them to be novel like (it actually does the opposite) but it can be equally applied to any videogame by the simple fact that it is visual. Paper and pencil RPGs are more like books in this regard because they also require imagination.

Tell me though, how many RPGs have you played that are based on Lord of the Rings? I've played the recent EA version and the old SNES game and the Interplay PC adaptations of the first two books. Not one of them was like reading the book. Now, The Hobbit released in 1982 is another story. But then again it's interactive fiction, not a RPG. Perhaps you'd be more familiar with visual novels. They are basically the Japanese version of interactive fiction. Again far more novel like.

By the way, are you really sure you want support RPGs by arguing they require less brainpower than a novel? ;)