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    What Video Games Assume You Know

    enApril 23, 2020

    Podcast Summary

    • New chapter for Triple Click podcastTriple Click, a video game podcast, is back with new hosts Kirk Hamilton, Maddie Myers, and Jason Shire, exploring new formats and topics while maintaining their signature humor. Listeners can support the show through Max Fun membership or sharing it.

      Triple Click, a new video game podcast, is here to bring gamers old and new exciting discussions about the industry. Hosts Kirk Hamilton, Maddie Myers, and Jason Shire will continue to deliver their signature humor while exploring new formats and topics. Listeners can support the show by becoming Max Fun members for bonus content or by sharing the podcast with others. The trio expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support since the announcement and thanked Max Fun for their assistance in launching the show. Expect more focus, the same jokes, and experimental elements in this new chapter of Triple Click.

    • Challenging gaming assumptionsBe open to new experiences and perspectives in gaming, even if they challenge long-held assumptions. Specific game rules can become ingrained, but may not apply to all games.

      Our gaming experiences and assumptions can be challenged, even by those who are new to gaming. The podcast hosts shared personal examples of seemingly "basic" gaming knowledge that they've come to realize are not as obvious as they once thought. These assumptions range from shooting helicopter rockets to running in 2D Mario games. The hosts also acknowledged that some games, like Mario, have specific rules that can become ingrained through repetition, leading to assumptions that may not apply to all games. Overall, the discussion highlights the importance of being open to new experiences and perspectives in gaming, even if they challenge our long-held assumptions.

    • Exploring alternate paths in video games can lead to hidden rewardsNew gamers can unlock hidden secrets and rewards by exploring alternate paths in video games, but mastering dual joysticks and understanding game mechanics takes time and practice.

      Exploring alternate paths in video games can lead to hidden secrets and rewards. This is a common tactic used in many games, such as Donkey Kong Country, where going left instead of right can uncover an extra life. However, this isn't always the case in all games, and it's important to understand the controls and mechanics of each game to make the most of these opportunities. Another significant challenge for new gamers is mastering the use of dual joysticks, which can be a major hurdle in the initial learning process. While it may take time and practice, anyone can learn to use both joysticks effectively with dedication and muscle memory. The thumbstick in particular can be tricky, as it doesn't offer a one-to-one representation of movement like a mouse does. This means that players must continue moving the thumbstick even after reaching the edge of the joystick axis, which can feel strange and take some getting used to. Overall, the world of video games offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, but it can also present challenges for newcomers. By understanding the unique mechanics of each game and practicing patience and persistence, players can overcome these hurdles and unlock the full potential of their gaming experiences.

    • Preferences for video game control influenced by background and perceptionUnderstanding gaming background and personal perception can impact whether individuals prefer inverted or non-inverted video game controls. Some find it more natural, while others may feel discomfort or nausea. Research suggests both inverted and non-inverted brains exist, and it's important to consider the visual language of video games for newcomers.

      People's preferences for controlling video games, such as inverting the axes, can be influenced by factors like their gaming background and personal perception. Some find it more natural, while others may experience discomfort or nausea. This discussion also touched upon the psychological aspect of how individuals interpret their head movements in relation to the joystick axes. The conversation highlighted that there are studies and research on this topic, and that both inverted and non-inverted brains exist, with no one being "weird" or "normal." Additionally, the conversation mentioned the importance of understanding the visual language of video games, which experienced players inherently know but newcomers might not, such as interpreting environmental clues and understanding inherent rules in games.

    • Understanding Unspoken Rules in Video GamesLearning game rules through experience, such as recognizing interactive objects and visual cues, enhances immersion in video games. New players should be aware of these unspoken rules to fully enjoy the experience.

      Video games use various design elements to guide and intrigue players, often hiding limitations and creating a sense of exploration. Players learn these "rules" through experience, such as understanding that certain objects or areas are interactive, or that certain visual cues indicate hidden rewards. For instance, in many games, a knob on a door means it can be opened, while a flat texture suggests it cannot. These rules can be subtle and require pattern recognition, and they contribute to the immersive experience of gaming. As technology advances, we may see more realistic and interactive environments in games, further blurring the line between what is real and what is not. For someone new to gaming, it's essential to understand these unspoken rules to fully enjoy the experience.

    • Understanding the impact of control schemes on gaming experienceConsider game design and personal preferences when choosing control schemes for optimal gaming enjoyment

      The way we interact with video games can greatly impact our gaming experience. For instance, some players might prefer using a controller for third-person games due to better control and comfort, while others might find keyboard and mouse more suitable for first-person games. However, not all games are created equal when it comes to control schemes. Some games, like "Gone Home," are designed with a more intuitive interface that allows players to interact with various objects in the game world, making the learning curve smoother. On the other hand, games like "Figment" might not be as clear about the control scheme, leading to frustration for new players. It's essential to consider the game's design and our personal preferences when choosing the best control scheme to fully enjoy the gaming experience.

    • Understanding gaming rules and literacies in Animal CrossingGaming knowledge and experience can improve new players' enjoyment by reducing anxiety and providing a sense of familiarity

      Gaming experience and knowledge can greatly impact a new player's experience in Animal Crossing and other similar games. The speakers discussed how understanding certain unwritten rules and the temporary nature of in-game items can alleviate anxiety and make the game more enjoyable. They also touched upon the importance of learning gaming literacies such as UI, navigation, and saving. Animal Crossing's approachability lies in its simplicity, but having prior gaming experience can enhance the new player's experience by providing them with a sense of familiarity and confidence.

    • Expectations vs Reality in MediaThe complexity and contradictions of human experiences with media, whether it's games or movies, can lead to varying opinions on length, depth, and substance.

      Our expectations and experiences with media, be it movies or video games, can be complex and contradictory. In the case of the Final Fantasy 7 remake, some found the length and padding to be disappointing, while others appreciated the depth and breadth of the game. Similarly, on the Who Shot You? movie podcast, the hosts bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table, making for engaging and thought-provoking discussions. Ultimately, it's about finding the right balance between substance and style, and embracing the complexity and contradictions that come with being human. Tune in to Who Shot You? every Friday for more insightful conversations about movies and the film industry.

    • Final Fantasy 7 Remake's excessively long side quests and dungeonsThe episodic nature and lengthy side content of Final Fantasy 7 Remake may leave new players feeling disappointed, especially if they're unaware of the original game. Consider playing the original or waiting for all episodes to be released before starting.

      The Final Fantasy 7 Remake feels longer than necessary due to some side quests and dungeons that seem excessively long. This is in contrast to games like God of War, which offer a more condensed, non-stop good experience. The episodic nature of the game also contributes to this feeling, as it's only an adaptation of the first four hours of the original story. Some may argue that this content isn't padding, but genuinely good stuff. However, the unexpected episodic nature of the game can leave new players feeling disappointed, especially if they're unaware of the original game's existence or the fact that future episodes will expand the story. The speaker suggests that anyone unfamiliar with the original should consider playing it instead. The speaker also mentions that they've been replaying the original game on their Switch and appreciating the ability to fast-forward through parts that may be less engaging today. Additionally, the speaker recently finished an episodic game called Kentucky Road 0, but waited until all episodes were released before playing it to avoid long waits between episodes.

    • A sad and poetic game about a trucker's supernatural journeyExplores themes of capitalism and debt, allows poetry creation, but leaves players feeling sad and introspective

      Kentucky Route 0 is an intensely sad and poetic point-and-click adventure game about a trucker trying to make a delivery in a supernatural world, where he encounters skeletons and gets trapped in a supernatural debt. The game also explores themes of capitalism and debt, and allows players to write and compose poems as they progress. However, despite its unique features and the speaker's past recommendation, the game left them feeling sad and introspective after finishing it. The current global economic crisis and the wide range of anxiety and stress experienced by individuals have led to a growing awareness of the role media plays in providing relief or exacerbating emotions. Some may find comfort in escapist, fun games, while others may prefer depressing and cathartic ones. Kentucky Route 0 falls into the latter category and might not be the best choice for everyone at this moment. Ultimately, the speaker acknowledges the game's merit and is glad it exists, but advises caution when considering playing it due to its heavy emotional impact.

    • Understanding the Impact of Tone on Horror Game ExperienceIndividual preferences for horror games are influenced by tone, relatability of protagonist reactions, and personal experiences with horror media. Nostalgia can also play a role in the enjoyment of remakes versus original games.

      The tone and approach to fear in horror games can greatly impact the overall experience for each individual player. Maddy and the speaker had contrasting experiences with the games "Resident Evil 3 remake" and "Half Life Alyx," with Maddy preferring the latter due to its lighter tone and more relatable protagonist reactions to horror. The speaker, on the other hand, found "Resident Evil 3 remake" less enjoyable due to its serious and gory nature. They both agreed that their preferences were influenced by their individual tastes and experiences with horror media. Horror games can evoke different emotions and reactions, and understanding these differences can help players make informed choices when selecting games. Additionally, the discussion touched on the impact of nostalgia and the differences between playing remakes and original games.

    • Horror and Comedy in Video GamesPersonal preference determines the balance between horror and comedy in video games, with some players preferring intense, stressful experiences and others enjoying tension-relieving humor.

      The balance between horror and comedy in video games can significantly impact the player's experience. While some players prefer a more serious and intense horror game, others enjoy the tension-relieving moments of comedy. The speaker expressed that they found some horror games, such as Resident Evil, to be too intense and stressful, while others, like Until Dawn, provided a more enjoyable experience due to their inclusion of humor. The tone and production values of a game can also influence the player's mood and level of stress. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what each individual player is looking for in a horror game.

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    Buy Triple Click Merch: https://maxfunstore.com/search?q=triple+click&options%5Bprefix%5D=last

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    Preorder Jason’s Book! https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/jason-schreier/play-nice/9781538725429/

    Support Triple Click: http://maximumfun.org/join

    Buy Triple Click Merch: https://maxfunstore.com/search?q=triple+click&options%5Bprefix%5D=last

    Join the Triple Click Discord: http://discord.gg/tripleclickpod

    Triple Click Ethics Policy: 

    https://maximumfun.org/triple-click-ethics-policy/

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    Preorder Jason’s Book! https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/jason-schreier/play-nice/9781538725429/

    Support Triple Click: http://maximumfun.org/join

    Buy Triple Click Merch: https://maxfunstore.com/search?q=triple+click&options%5Bprefix%5D=last

    Join the Triple Click Discord: http://discord.gg/tripleclickpod

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    https://maximumfun.org/triple-click-ethics-policy/

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    Preorder Jason’s Book! https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/jason-schreier/play-nice/9781538725429/

    Support Triple Click: http://maximumfun.org/join

    Buy Triple Click Merch: https://maxfunstore.com/search?q=triple+click&options%5Bprefix%5D=last

    Join the Triple Click Discord: http://discord.gg/tripleclickpod

    Triple Click Ethics Policy: 

    https://maximumfun.org/triple-click-ethics-policy/

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