I was thinking about my favorite 2D games. Mario and Punchout. The success of playing relies heavily on TIMING and PATTERN RECOGNITION. Two things that most 3D games do not require.

While 3D looks a lot better. I rarely have to time anything or figure out the patterns in AI. For example, in Gears of War I can just run around and shoot everything, then duck for cover when I need to regain health. Meh. Fun for awhile, but it's just a different challenge from 2D games.

Anyone else have thoughts on this?

Some newer 2D games are based heavily in trail and error but I prefer good ol' reflex based gameplay.

Thats why arcades were the golden age.

It's true that you needed a sharper sense of dexterity and reflexes in the old days. But in modern 3D games you also need to be able to track many more things on screen. I think both types of games require different skill sets. That's why it's still fun to go back and play old school games with inferior graphics even today.

Most of the things you "need to track" in 3D games is completely irrelevant though.

3D games = higher chance of having a seizure

2D games = more focused on creativity and gameplay

yesss