The Lonesome Road

Just how important is a storyline in games today?

Of course in Adventure games and RPGs’, a storyline is (technically) the most important part of the game. It is the basic premise around which the game is designed. In these games, a poor storyline can detract a lot from the gaming experience. Some of the best RPG’s I’ve played are the Baldur’s Gate Series, the Icewind Dale series and Planescape:Torment. All else being equal, Planescape walks away with being the best of the lot. Why? Because of an amazingly immersive storyline and great character interaction. It’s probably one of the only games where you can talk your way out of the final battle. Go figure.

Coming to the RTS and FPS sections - now this is where a plot line can really help. In most RTS, there is usually a good storyline. The major problem comes in that most of the plots are linear - and to a large extent - predictable. However, I do agree that to make a non-linear series of challenges for an RTS can be a challenge. most RTS cover this by giving an option where the players decision causes changes in a later mission. It’s in the case of the FPS that the major problem comes in. There are usually two basic types of people who play these games.
a) Those who just want the adrenaline rush. no questions asked shooting
b) Those who want to actually feel the type of person they are role-playing.

For people of the former category a storyline is the last thing to look for. And there does seem to be a sort of revivalist trend going on in this direction. Games like Serious Sam (1 and 2), Painkiller, Doom 3 are all Classic retro games where the storyline and pseudo-reality go for a toss. In my opinion - these games are usually 15 minute stress killers. They can’t really hold attention for longer periods of time. The lack of a storyline is usually covered by toning up the eye candy.

For immersiveness, a plot/story is a must. Consider Half-Life and it’s much awaited sequel. Not examples of great storylines - but what it had, combined with the impressive AI really helped players get under the skin of the character. Similarly, System Shock 2 - with great atmosphere and a decent storyline was an absolute joy to play.

Finally, the want or lack of a storyline is the choice of the person playing the game. but remember, as the reviewer of Doom3 said : “Space marine saves earth by killing monsters isn’t a plot”.

Until next time…