A new game is coming to the market this year, and it is already generating divided opinions. The game, which is one of the promises of Rockstar Games – the same developer of GTA –, has disappointed fans for not delivering the “open concept” that we usually see in the company’s games. With a different proposal, understand why the fans are criticizing the game, what exactly is “open concept” in a game, and what to expect from its release.
Why isn’t the new GTA game open-world?
This new game is developed by Leslie Benzimes, former president of Rockstar, the same company that gave life to GTA. Since it is from the same company as one of the most beloved franchises in the gaming world, and has a similar premise, this background alone would be enough to make fans anxious for its release. But, unfortunately, one feature of the game left the public apprehensive: it’s not open-world.
Open-world games are a universe of infinite possibilities, where the player has the freedom to explore the game’s virtual environment without the restriction of following a linearity or progression. This is one of the most striking features of GTA for fans, and it was precisely the most interesting point to see in another game. However, developers say that there is an explanation behind why they made something different from GTA.
The name of this game is Mind’s Eye, and it was developed to deliver an intense gaming experience, with around 20 hours of story. This means that, unlike GTA, this game has a linear and direct narrative, with a beginning, middle, and end, designed to engage the player. Its developers intended to make something unique, with relevant missions, and that would not demand too much time and money.
Reactions from fans and the gaming community
In the gaming universe, the choice made by the developers of Mind’s Eye did not please everyone. On social networks or specialized forums, opinions were divided. Some defended the idea that not every title needs to be open-world to be good, but because it was made by Rockstar, others claim that it broke the expectations of fans, who were waiting for something similar to GTA.
Another factor that has caused dissatisfaction and complaints from fans is the very high price for a very short campaign time. Despite being designed to be played in just 20 hours, the game costs US$60, leaving fans disappointed with the abusive prices for games that are not that long.
Abusive prices in the gaming sector are something that directly influences consumer satisfaction and, in times of inflation, are an important factor when we look at the drop in game sales in recent times. Gamers are increasingly looking for something that compensates for their investment and dedication.
The future of gaming: Trend or exception?
The truth is that, behind the decision to make Mind’s Eye a linear game, there is a strong response to market trends in the gaming world. As much as open-world games are fun and give that feeling of freedom, they can end up becoming tiring if they don’t create an objective or direction for the game.
As a smaller game, focused on its 20-hour narrative of gameplay, Mind’s Eye has enormous potential to surprise with its quality. Having a leaner, yet richer experience can be a good strategy for those who want to venture into different types of games.
Rockstar hopes that this cinematic, well-scripted game, unlike open-world games that often end up offering repetitive or irrelevant missions, will deliver a high and innovative level of entertainment and surprise its players.
