I think that was well written, Pete, and I agree with the spirit of nearly everything you said. Although I think the QTE fad has died off, it seemed confusing and outdated when Battlefield 3's campaign had it, I can't remember the last new game I played that did it, other than God of War III, but it wouldn't be God of War without the insanely brutal and over-the-top QTEs.

I understand that big companies need to make money. I'm an RPG guy, but I love me some big shooters and racing games as well. But I think the current environment is not very conducive to meaningful experiences. A game doesn't have to innovate or revolutionize, but it should have that charm or that x-factor, that magical video game element that really pulls you in, but I have to say even the cream of the crop games this gen just don't have that. This generation has been disappointingly mediocre. But I have a weird mind state where I can admit to being disappointed, but still put that aside and enjoy something for what it is nonetheless.

Quote Originally Posted by Jiro View Post
EDIT: I do have to say though, I love manuals. I think moving towards in game tutorials is sad. Manuals are a companion, to keep on hand and to reference. Sure, I don't mind in game tips, but I like to figure it out as I go, not be shown how to do things and then be told to continue doing it.
Co-sign 110%!!! It's super disappointing that most games give you a couple black and white pages to pass for a manual! I love manuals with awesome artwork from the game and cool character portraits like Metal Gear Solid. Even though MGS4 was black and white, I still loved the comics they packed in, especially the Metal Gear Online one at the end. It was funny! Back in the NES days games used to come with entire strategy guides for them! I know some passionate publishers make an effort to do this, but I'd really like to see it more, especially for a big AAA title.