Reasonable on 05 August 2010
Most people prefer a good ending - by that I mean one that satisfies for the game. It doesn't have to be up or anything. Also, it doesn't have to be anything to do with story, either. We could be talking a final boss or platform level.
Basically, build the game based on growing the complexity of the gameplay mechanics it contains and finish with a nice flourish.
Finishing a game and realizing the last three stages, levels, etc. where rubbish and the best section of the game was around the middle point isn't good.
So yes, it's important. If a game dies away towards the end the majority won't be happy and with videogames you're trying to keep the majority happy.
Try to be reasonable... its easier than you think...
