with a game like MW2, it may have a story, but the story is not actually interactive.  The outcome is pretty set in stone vs. Mass Effect or Fable where the game documents mission choices to piece together the Epilogue for an individual story experience.  When games like MW2 don't allow your choices to affect the game, you are still an observer to the story, but you play through the action parts of the story.  The plot follows a script like a roller coaster.  In a game like Mass Effect, you can play the missions in any order, as well, you can choose not to complete missions which will significantly alter the outcome of your game.  Linear vs. Non-linear games are the big dichotomy.  Grand Theft Auto was one of the first "sandbox" games, but many games are open world style.  A game like "The Sims" doesn't have any story or gameplay.  You really just end up pointing, clicking and making decisions.  Many people seem to think "the Sims" are "fun", but it doesn't fit any traditional game style, or story telling style.  This is why I started off saying "hardcore gamers only THINK they're the real gamers".  

Chris 

Chris

by chrisandyasemin on 02/06/2010 08:42:07 PM EST

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