Bioware honestly thinks that I’m going to sit in my living room and yell commands at my console while playing Mass Effect 3’s single player campaign. And, honestly, that wouldn’t be so bad if they acknowledged it as a gimmick and just something they’d like to try. We’ve seen a bit of what they plan to do with Kinect and maybe it could work to some extent. But they seem like they’re taking the thing a bit too seriously.
The Vision Behind Kinect Integration
“We view them almost as additional platforms,” CEO Ray Muzyka told Eurogamer. “The Kinect plus 360, it’s optional how you play it, but we view it as another platform for the game. 360 with the controller is another platform. PS3, PC and mouse. They need to all be seamless. They have to all be really thoughtful in terms of how we integrate them.” This statement reflects Bioware’s ambitious vision to create a versatile gaming experience that caters to different preferences and play styles. By considering Kinect as an additional platform, Bioware aims to enhance the interactivity and immersion of Mass Effect 3.
However, the practicality of this vision is debatable. While the idea of using voice commands to control in-game actions sounds innovative, it raises questions about its effectiveness and appeal. For instance, will players find it more convenient to shout commands rather than using traditional controls? Moreover, how will this feature impact the overall gameplay experience, especially during intense combat scenarios?
Player Preferences and Expectations
Honestly, I’m pretty sure most people would be extremely happy just to see properly implemented PC and console control schemes. Full on Kinect integration probably doesn’t even make most people’s top ten on their Mass Effect 3 wish lists. The core fanbase of Mass Effect has always appreciated the game’s rich storytelling, complex characters, and strategic combat. These elements are best experienced through precise and responsive controls, which traditional controllers and keyboards provide.
Furthermore, the gaming community has expressed mixed feelings about motion controls and voice commands in the past. While some players enjoy the novelty and immersion they offer, others find them gimmicky and less reliable than conventional methods. For example, games like “Star Wars: Kinect” and “Steel Battalion: Heavy Armor” received criticism for their clunky and unresponsive controls, which detracted from the overall experience.
In contrast, games that focus on refining traditional control schemes, such as “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” and “Dark Souls,” have been praised for their intuitive and satisfying gameplay. These titles demonstrate that a well-designed control system can significantly enhance a game’s appeal and longevity.
In conclusion, while Bioware’s attempt to integrate Kinect into Mass Effect 3 is commendable for its innovation, it may not resonate with the majority of players who prioritize traditional control schemes. The success of this feature will ultimately depend on its execution and how well it complements the core gameplay experience. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, developers must strike a balance between innovation and practicality to meet the diverse preferences of their audience.
Source Eurogamer
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