The first video game I ever played was Putt Putt Enters the Race. I remember this game because of the joy it gave me when I would complete some sort of mission and receive a bottle. I would recycle these bottles, and eventually I would get enough to join the race through recycling enough of those bottles. This system gave me an incentive to keep playing and try to get as many bottles as possible. I became so absorbed with collecting bottles I don't think I really cared about the race, which was the whole point of the game. I believe the mechanics of this game were what kept making me come back to play more. As a little kid, I couldn't explain why but I got some sense of fulfillment from collecting the green bottles and recycling them.
Another game I used to play was Pokemon on my Nintendo DS. I played Blue Mystery Dungeon the most, and I can vividly remember sitting in my room playing that game for hours. I enjoyed the story and I wanted to get my Pokemon to high levels so I could beat the game. I wanted to beat the game not just for the sake of beating it, but for the sake of satisfying the story and seeing what happened in the end. I didn't ever beat the game, but I still have fond memories of it.
The last game I have chosen from my childhood would have to be Cooking Mama. I still smile every time think of the memories. I used to play this game with my sister all the time when I was bored or she wanted to use the Wii. Just the sheer aspect of being a competitive game can draw kids into it despite not really having a story or much appeal. Just racing to chop onions or grind meat is entertaining as long as you are playing against someone else. If I could pinpoint one thing from the Tetrad it would be Aesthetics because I loved when the eggs would break and splatter everywhere. Otherwise, it was just the mere opportunity to compete versus someone else.
I think your selection of games is really interesting. It seems that you really enjoyed a wide variety of games, from heavy story-based games to those that emphasize mechanics or aesthetics. I also like that you highlighted the fond memories you had of the games, including Cooking Mama. I know some of my favorite old games I enjoyed with my family as well, so I can totally relate. As a side note, I can relate to the struggle with Mystery Dungeon. That game was pretty difficult from what I recall, but I remember I loved the story as well.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I have never played "Putt Putt Enters the Race", I really like how you organized the first paragraph, introducing the game, presenting personal interest and emphasizing the effectiveness of the mechanics. The next two games you mentioned are both two of my favorite childhood games too. I really enjoy how you incorporate your personal experience and go deeply into the mechanics of the games.
ReplyDeleteI really liked your diverse selection of games and how you described the most exciting factor in each. While I've never played Blue Mystery Dungeon myself, a lot of my friends did and I like how you highlighted why it resonated with you. A good story is always a key element in any good game. As for Cooking Mama, I can remember playing it with my sister as well. I completely agree; the aesthetics and competition made the game what is was despite the lack of plot or levels. Great review, you did a nice job of summarizing each game.
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