I am not saying they are not hardcore, I am saying that hardcore games are silly because of the themes and that they are taken too seriously among hardcore gamers.
Whether it is TV, Movies, videogames, or literature plots revolving revolving around aliens, pirates, ninjas, or zombies are in a difficult place to bring new people into the fold.
This isn't about Nintendo or Casual games (to answer that question) it's more of a question of how seriously any of these artforms can be taken. I often make jokes about the comic book guy from the Simpson's; it's people like that who scare others away from enjoying games, sci-fi, comics, etc.
Maybe it is my frustration with the whole industry right now, on one hand you have Nintendo who is making a major push to sell games mostly on gameplay. Why'll MS is pushing an online agenda, and Sony is pushing Bluray. All three are decent strategies, but don't help a more mature and sophisticated direction for the art of storytelling through games.
Heavy Rain is an attempt at drama, and I can appreciate the risk there, but I would like to see more. More War games that tackle the difficulties and pain of war. More adventure games that bring you into the feelings of loneliness and struggle of the adventurer. Fantasy that challenges modern day society to look at itself, like Gulliver's Travels or Alice in Wonderland. Where are the deeper characters, more poignant humor, and challenging themes?
I would cite regulation, but I know you will simply ignore it.
