GamingLives' Adam takes a look at the recent phenomenon of games with no definitive gameplay, and asks why their validity is questioned. Ultimately, if they're interactive and provide entertainment in a virtual medium, are they not still games?
"I’ve often said that I consider games to be an art form as much as any other, and it is generally considered that the question “but is it art?” is a really stupid one; art is one of the most subjective things that we do as a species and what is seen by one person as simply an upside down urinal is viewed as a statement of genius by another. In the same vein, if I think Gone Home is a game, does it really matter if you don’t?"
GB: "Some games reduce stress while others like to play with your mind."
15 games on FIFTEEN pages? That's a NO from me.
Superliminal
Antichamber
Manifold Garden
Portal & Portal 2
The Stanley Parable
Monument Valley
Gorogoa
Thumper
Inscryption
Q.U.B.E. 2
Darq
Quantum Break
Perspective
Inside
The Swapper
I think Inscryption is the best game on that list. PT and Returnal i would offer. Returnal deserves a spot over some of the listed games. Especially after chapter 3. Maybe even Alice MR? Death Stranding? Kojima all together. To much smaller degree Dead Space. I'm spitballing.
I didn't play Thumper enough to see beyond the visual spectacle. Curious choice.
I'd add FEAR and RE7 (when Ethan starts getting visions, especially in the boat) to that list.
Edit: and Here They Lie
Only makes me think of gatcha loot crate game specifically built to play your mind into becoming an addict.
"From winks & nods to straight-up gameplay-altering sequences, video games often break the fourth wall. Read on for some of the best moments." Mike @ Thumb Culture
Ever since it was released as a mod for Half-Life 2, The Stanley Parable has been a cult phenomenon.
I have never heard of the 'un-game' before. Though there does seem to be a few games out there that don't have gameplay. I like the article. Very thoughtful
Can you _play_ it? Is it interactive? Well, seems like a game to me.
The way I see it is, people tend to use "this isn't really a game" as an euphemism "this game is a nauseatingly boring waste of life". Of course, most people won't admit that in fear of being labeled as simpletons who "don't get it", since most of these games are perceived by some as a form of highly metaphorical, sophisticated art.