Sony Copied Microsoft, But Where Is The Backlash?

[Hapimeses]

Videogirl said:

Slimebeast said:

I'd say MS still invented achievements because when you say 'achievements' ppl r thinking of that universal point system that works towards a larger goal, and that was a unique invention that will stay in gaming for all time. 

Achievements dramatically changed the way so many gamers play their games, so in hindsight it will be one of the really huge things to be remembered from this gen.

 (but I'm in no way critizicing Sony for copying, I just say give credit where credit is due)

 

Yeah for the worst IMHO. Some people give too much credit to achievments and trophies and disregard completely the quality of a title as long as they can get a larger e-penis thanks to it. It's truly pitifull. Don't get me wrong I like online play and I'm all for competition in games, but this is not competition it's just vaunt.

 

I think that's unfair.

Achievements et al have changed how many play in a good way (and bad, but I'm only tackling the good here to respond to your point). Games that were only dipped into or played once often get far more playing. Aspects of play that would never be explored are done so for odder acheivements (when a developer cleverly designs them, and doesn't just reward a gamer for solely doing what the central thrust of the game requires). Many gamers gain many more hours of gameplay out of a title that could have been dull otherwise.

This is all good; assuming the game at hand in enjoyable and the achievements are fun to chase. It grants extra value for money. I like this.

However, where I do think you have a point is where people avoid titles without such rewards, missing out on a potentially great game or experience simply because of a ephemeral, largely meaningless reward. Not buying Valkyria Chronicles because of a lack of trophies, or not buying Empire: Total War because of a lack of achievements are two, clear examples of this. Really, two awesome games missed out on for such a petty reason seems a bit daft to me.