Hardcore Games are a Niche
Posted in Game Design, Industry on February 23rd, 2009 by Rafael
Using a vocabulary of only 25 words, I have written a simple random generator that generates disturbingly plausible computer game names. Here are some samples:
- Eternal Shadow
- Shattered Empires
- Star Masters
- Blood Knight
- Silent Commander
- World of Eternal Blood
- Hero of the Shattered Throne
- Silent Worlds
- Knights of Legend
- Blood Empire
- Star Wars
- Dawn Commanders
- Time Ninja
- Lost Swords
- Stellar Throne
- Heroes of Legend
- Forgotten Realm
- Time of the Unknown Master
- Legend of Legendary Legends
Except for the last one¹, these could easily be real titles — and not of embarrassing B-list products, either. What does this tell game developers? It tells us that game settings choose to live in a ghetto. It tells us that what we consider mainstream is a sideline in other media. It reminds us that the “niche market” isn’t casual gamers, but ourselves.
…
Or maybe I’m reading too much into this and really just wanted an excuse to write that name generator.
…
Anyone up for a game of Time Ninja?
¹ Actually, since there is a real game called “Divine Divinity”, “Legend of Legendary Legends” should get greenlighted no problem.
Popularity: 8% [?]
