Author: Ryke (---.home.com)
Date: 05-17-2001 13:51
I took some time to read the column and the posts. I don't usually post, but CRPG's and their need to evolve has always interested me. I think Mr. Johnson took a good look at an evolutionary step in the chain of games. I didn't play Ultima IV, but I did play the Ultima for old 8-bit Nintendo, and they sounded close in game design, although incredably different in video and sound. What I really liked is finally a distinction between hack-and-slash and the idea of a quest. I love Diablo, so this isn't an anti-hack-and-slash commentary, but I love a storyline and personality in a game so much more. Choosing between good and evil is the point where we become involved in the game at the level of a role. I think the Ultima lines were essential in establishing a frame of reality in computer gaming, a need for choice that was as unique as the gamer. I think Mr. Johnson choose Ultima for its distinctive design rather than addictive power, and I enjoyed the observation.
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