In the world of video gaming, we should endeavour to just keep it simple. Sometimes, there are benefits to moving from all-singing, all-dancing complexity to simple video games, and while this may seem like heresy, we’ve all got to dial it and remember that keeping things simple in our video gaming efforts can bring about a whole heap of positives, including the following:
A Pathway to Mastery
While simple games may lack in concept, the reality is that many classic games are difficult to truly master. Games like Sudoku and chess are excellent examples that have been perplexing people almost permanently. This means a satisfying challenge as players improve their skills over time. It can be incredibly complex to navigate modern gaming because of the sheer volume of functions, and this is why sometimes the simpler game mechanics, such as Sega Mega Drive and retro consoles, may have fewer features and are simpler. But this is a lesson in simplicity in every part of our lives. When we encourage ourselves to hone our abilities on simple and focused mechanics, we can achieve mastery and provide a solid gaming foundation that helps us in other aspects of our gaming journey.
Approachability and User Friendliness
Sometimes we just need to remember that simple is far more effective. Simpler games like Tetris are easy to learn and pick up, meaning that they are highly approachable for players of all skill levels. So rather than spending time fumbling with the controls trying to get into a game experience that we think we should be making the most of but getting frustrated in the process, simpler games like retro games with a handful of buttons make it a far more welcoming gameplay experience.
The Nostalgia Benefits
Nearly anybody of a certain age can look back on their childhood with fondness and remember playing games on the Commodore 64 or Super Nintendo. The enduring appeal of an old-fashioned game demonstrates that complex mechanics or graphics are not always necessary to provide an engaging gaming experience. We live in a world where games are heavy on content, and sometimes we need a palate cleanser. Shorter games with minimal rounds were all the rage in the 1990s. Games like The Terminator on the Mega Drive had four levels, providing an opportunity to enjoy gaming without being overburdened. That’s not to say they were games with more than a fair share of challenges. Flashback was another excellent game that had a handful of levels, but was densely layered.
While modern games are great for your memory and learning, sometimes we need to remember that simple can be far more sinister. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic escape or a change of pace, complexity is something that we should shun in the modern world, not just in gaming but in life. Sometimes we can benefit from keeping things simple. Those older games like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong, as well as rhythm games such as Rock Band and Guitar Hero, can be a welcoming change from the norm.