A brilliant video that was a wild ride the whole way through. We share similar views on cultural and societal issues, I appreciate you being blunt with your observations on capitalism. So many other UA-camrs (or people in general) fear the backlash that comes with criticising the system (as seen by some of the other comments). I'm not an artist myself, so I have a much different frame of reference on the subject, however your perspective on art is always thought provoking to me. I question the motives of some of these people making the "gaming sucks now" videos, comes across as trend chasing, inauthentic behaviour. While I know you moved into a different direction (focusing on the cause, rather than the problem), I do agree with the title. When I was depressed I thought gaming was shit. Now that I'm in a much better place mentally, it's enjoyable again. Live service games really have the ability to suck out your soul and vowing to never play one again has helped with enjoyment. The rituals of play we have lost through advances in technology are a real shame, playing games with your friends on discord isn't the same as being in the same room, you don't build those memories. I hope things are going better for you man, and if not, I hope they improve in the near future.
"These are not political stances; these are anti-dying stances." Man, CJ, I have not even finished this essay, and yet I already have to applaud your delivery.
"Monetary innovation bends the art over a table, sexually assaults it, and then gaslights it afterwards." This line was good. I'm sure there are examples of positive monetary innovation (digital sales platforms making it easier for indies in all art forms to find a niche audience, etc) but if we actually thought about monetary innovation not from the lens of, "how can we make MORE money?" but, "how can we enable artists (of all forms) to make a living? How can we divorce money from art in a healthy way?" Can we subsidize it to create a more even playing field? Can we reduce the power of large corporations? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
You make some interesting points, and while you are definitely correct about the state of the AAA game industry, I can't help but feel you've downplayed indie games quite a bit. You say there is no meaningful art (24:47), but games such as Superliminal and Manifold Garden are incredible artworks and memorably unique. You say indie games have struggled to break through the surface, but they've been doing gangbusters with games like Pizza Tower, Lethal Company, hell FNAF is a bit old but it spawned a whole subgenre of games and has become arguably the most well-known horror game nowadays. Anyway, I just wanted to put my two cents in. I'm sorry to hear about all you went through, I hope you're doing better. Great video!
there's something funny to say about fnaf, it's a good example of a small indie game making it big and slowly shifting itself to "fit the market" it created, losing it's meaning in the process. even success can be failure.
the thing is though, for each of the Indie games that make it big, that have popular support and allow the creators to continue making art, there are at least 1000 more Indie games and even more Indie devs, that don't make it big and who eventually give up
Bro this the realest shit talked about this topic, like fr mfs be yapping about their own experiences, not the general gaming experiences. (Love your editing btw, this gotta be probably the best editing I've seen this year.) Can't wait for the next video premiere
I’ve always thought part of the issue is that mediocre games get such huge marketing budgets. Amazing indies and AA games get pushed to the wayside, and everyone thinks assasin’s creed and the sorcerer’s stone or whatever is all the industry is putting out. The loudest voices are singing over the rest of the choir, and they sound like shit.
"when was the last time a game surprised you?"- "well, it was actually a lp because I didn't have the VR console - it was Half-Life:Alyx. The ending blew my mind because *It did the impossible.*
I really like the video. I've been feeling this way for a while now, but with UA-cam instead of videogames. It seems more and more UA-camrs are less and less personal. I'm happy I found your channel because it made me like UA-cam again. I would say it seems lots of people are following a formula to maximize profits because they are afraid of risk. This could be the big reason why UA-cam has been feeling less personal. Losing profit negatively impacts your livelihood which is kind of messed up 🙂. Anyway, after watching noodle's video on the BG3 discourse I found a comment recommending your videos. I'm very glad I found you, and all I gotta say is neat video. PS: Also thanks for putting a light on what noodle was doing in that video. It seemed really disingenuous, and you compiled all the information really well into one video making it easy for a viewer to see what was really going on.
First found your channel when you dropped the Noodle vid and thought, "Damn, I think this guy gets it." Watched this video and thought, "DAMN, this guy gets it!"
I think you raise a perfectly valid point that many games back in the earliest era of video games were designed to be fun first. Though there are exceptions like many arcade games often being designed to be brutally unfair to get as many plays out of people as possible. Stuff like the concept of a life counter where if you run out you "Game Over" is a product of how arcade machines made money. The argument can be made that difficulty is a creative choice in crafting an experience, but in many ways, the difficulty of the arcade era was artificial and not as meaningful. Another thing I want to bring up is how video games never simply started as an art form solely for enjoyment, as opposed to lots of other art forms that have existed for much longer, like poetry, theater, etc. It began under a capitalist system and their creation and widespread adoption could only be justified as a means to make profit. I stress this because the process of making a video game in that early era was rarely as simple and painless as "I have this idea, sounds like fun, let's make it" as it comes off in your examples of Tennis for Two, Pong, and Rogue. Many games in the 70s and 80s were made on shoestring budgets with little support given to devs and often no credit was granted to them. A notable example is Adventure on the Atari 2600 which had a hidden convoluted easter egg of the developer's name because he wasn't legally allowed to take credit publicly for his own work as a programmer. This labor exploitation has continued in the games industry since, though crediting practices have certainly improved across the board, but many developers are still overworked and underpaid industry wide. That is even with the rapid expansion the industry has undergone. Over time the expansion has gone more into making games more attractive and addictive to the average consumer (and therefore expanding profits for executives and shareholders). I bring this up because I want to challenge the notion that video games as an artform began as this pure, untainted creative movement of nothing but passion that was only corrupted when MTX and DLC and live service came in when so much of it was profit driven very early on. Yes, the passion was always there from developers to make something fun and novel for players. Sure, the experience on the player side was brand new and the limits were constantly being tested and broken for decades. But the profit motive existed at the start too and shaped how all games have formed. The people who do the work to make the games have been exploited since the start and still are. The difference is now the players are feeling the exploitation too.
Yeah I agree, cause I feel like he’s using capitalism as an excuse on almost everything why gaming is “bad”. While I do see where’s he talking about, that doesn’t mean we should ignore the pro’s on what capitalism did to it cause that what it feels like in this video, constantly bashing on capitalism for unknown reasons (maybe for a bias reason).
@@positivea9111 I don't think you realized the point of their comment. Their comment was that since the industry formed under capitalism it was always a profit-driven industry, and exploiting developers has been the name of the game ever since. It's just that now, things have progressed to where the gamers are also feeling the effects of exploitation.
@@positivea9111 The solution to problems caused by having the profit-motive as the sole driving economic factor is to instead advocate a system that partially or wholly replaces it in favor of different driving forces, of which there are many.
@@positivea9111i agree that some more solutions could be spit balled, but i don't think it's just bashing capitalism for the sake of bashing capitalism, its a critique on a poisonous aspects of capitalism thats been killing the industry. Also out of curiosity, what are the pros that capitalism has brought to games?
"Communist art can't exist under capitalism!" >Wins several game of the year awards and earns a shit ton of profit under capitalism. Why are commies like this?
haven't even watched it yet but i just remembered and rewatched the noodle video just to see this dropped AND this topic is literally spiritually aligned with where i've been at the past week how did you do this
yep, there are still good games out there. Also there is a huge backlog of games too. It only gets depressing if the AAA industry is your sole source of games. Thank you for a well thought out video. Some food for thought for my part.
Shino, the video editor, definitely understands that because a lot of the visuals in the background were great indie games I've heard about or played myself.
I have so many questions and thoughts about this video, but all in all this has been amazing! great work dude. I can't help but note the choice of game OSTs that you've used and I can't express how well you got it
Huh, I just realized I might have a...well not unique, but less common perspective on this. I am and have been extremely antisocial, keep a very small friend group whose tastes in games rarely overlap, and avoid all forms of fandom like the plague (they tend to ruin things for me). From my point of view, the only changes that have happened to AAA games have been more predatory monetization. To be fair, that has driven me away from mainstream games in favor of indies, but I'd never say something like "gaming sucks now." As for the question at around 10:28, like six months ago. CrossCode is full of surprises.
Indie games are the way they are because they avoid publishers and seek profit as the secondary effect of creating a fun game that they are passionate about. The business side of the industry has always been extremely exploitative, from programmers barred from having their names in the games, to the horror stories of crunch in studios. It's just that now, that exploitation has leaked out and begun being directed at the consumer as well.
You know what? I actually needed to hear this. I actually legit thought gaming was falling off until my best friend showed me From Software. When Armored Core 6 was nearing it's release, I actually decided to play the older games, and the best part about all this was that the entire thing became a genuine eye opener... The From Software we know today, is still the *exact* same one that first made Armored Core back in the 90s, not just from the ideas but from the literal staff who stuck around for 20+ years. They were the ones who spat at the modern gaming market chasing Call of Duty and made Dark Souls 1 ANYWAY! The market demanded a Ubisoft type open world and they made Elden Ring anyway. That studio is also a very huge reason why I am still here today, it helped me keep fighting depression knowing that things can and will get better.
Video Games aren't any different from television or music, besides how interactive they are. We can talk about, bond, and form communities about them. Since Video Games are interactive, each person's experience is unique. You can learn about new games from talking to people, and learn more about them from playing them. I have a friend/coworker who recommended me Dead Cells, and that game is a masterpiece. That's only part of the reason I love Video Games so much. I can go on and on about it.
You knocked it out of the park once again with this analysis. It emphasizes so many of the feelings I've felt without being able to put them to words. Thank you for the continued work you do to share with us all.
I wouldn't say it's because of Capitalism, but rather Corporativism and even greed in general. The major problem that made most of the AAA games nowadays shit is that the industry became like a corporation. It isn't about "making fun games" anymore, it's "making games that generate the most money". Even if Capitalism was where Corporativism was based off of, the awnser is not to blame the tree (I know I know, it goes against most common sense, but believe me when I say that a system that existed for almost all of humanity itself, in some way, is not to blame for the modern degradation of games), but to blame the poison ivy that grew around it. And what's the solution to that? Simple: Don't buy modern games, don't interact with "live services" and the like and, specially, broaden your range and scope for obtaining games. You don't need to buy cosmetic skins, you don't need to play the Popular Thing™ just because it's popular and you don't need to look over AAA releases for the "good stuff". Literally just open your eyes to the indie, AA and anything else below and inbetween.
@preacher3958Unfortunately, most of the criticism that is thrown around to that system can be resolved by simply not interacting with the product you consider bad.
I agree with this comment and I definitely think it's a good thing to pair with the video itself. It's difficult to not blame the problems on capitalism since it's really the only economic system that exists, but where there is money, there will be people who will want the most of it - even communism had this issue. Corporatism is just the current parasite compatible with this species of commerce and economy.
@@courier6932 *cut to Apple removing headphone jacks and every other phone company following in their footsteps even though most smartphone users at the time hated not having the option to use wired headphones anymore. Or when TikTok became the largest video sharing platform and every other platform started implementing short form content.* This almost never works anymore unless it's an organized targeted attack (i.e. A boycott)
I stg ive been thinking on this exact wavelength. People used to do so much social interaction as kids especially when it came to games as the most simple things like have 4players was jaw dropping. The generations of gamers grew up along side the technology, and evolving world so its kinda like getting older and leaving things you like behind that you used to fondly love; its a jarring rapid evolution. A worse problem imo, is how some people treat gaming less like a hobby , and more like a lifestyle eventually leading them to a General cynical viewpoint because they never took the opportunity to Let that comfort go . Its a coping mechanism (mainly this is for streamers and content creators stuck in a box) Anyways great video surprised you DIDNT TAKE ANOTHER YEAR ONG
Holy shit, I was wondering if you were going to make a video that matched your last one in quality, and you blew my expectations COMPLETELY out of the water. I've been contemplating doing a video on a similar subject, but you did it more justice than I ever could. Massive props!
It has been a solid decade since I've agreed this much with a piece of media. I swear this man is in my head. Thank you so much for putting things in a much more elegant way than I ever could, and giving a voice to people like me who have trouble finding the words to speak for themselves.
Mans gonna smoke a “cigarette” and not even offer us a drag that’s tuff Great video as always big dawg. I’m glad that you can still see the beauty in the world despite everything you went through, and I’m sorry you had to go through it. You’re a stronger man than most
I was sent this video by a friend and have watched it twice. Seriously some of the best content on youtube. Just subbed and joined your patreon. Hope to see you get the views and subscribers you deserve in the near future.
I like how some of this feels like an expansion on the art is a science video, ive really liked hearing you talk about this stuff and it has given me quite a bit to think about that i take for granted
So what you are saying is ... We should uproot capitalism by its root in a worldwide revolution aiming at instauring the dictatoriship of the proletariat and topple the ruling bourgeois class ? I mean, if that means we get our gaming back, i have to consider ...
Well... While greed is certainly poluting games... I think Greed is *corrupting* capitalism, rather than capitalism being the cause itself of cultural decay. And what better word to demostrate this corruption of Capitalism than this handy dandy term: *Corporativism.*
I love how culture evolves, I dislike people that make “games are not fun anymore” videos and hope the hedonistic treadmill that those people run on slightly inclines
You go over how the video game industry has changed for the worse in ways, the games being made more and more for profit, or 'played' for a crowd (and not actually played by its fans), so on. It's all solvable in one manner, and Reggie Fils-Aimé put it down perfectly: "If it's not fun, why bother?" Video games should always prioritize, first and foremost, the enjoyment of the game. Everything should come second. Nostalgia, or even proclaimed 'artistic value' can only be derived from something if it's enjoyable at its basest level. Same with painting, books, TV, just about every other form of media out there is the same. Nobody would be calling Michaelangelo or whoever the hell 'artistic' if they didn't watch his plays and think 'that was pretty good'. And one developer that really epitomizes everything wrong with the industry, a fallen hero, mass layoffs, the pretentious ivory tower directors, the obsession with remakes, remasters and sequels... Naughty Dog. Imagine it's your first day at Naughty Dog. The guy who's giving you the studio tour, let's call him "Mark", gives you a wry grin and says "We're all naughty dogs here" as he leads you down a bright orange corridor. "Here's the kennel" he points out and points out the break room, "And down here is the dog bowl. That's what we call the cafeteria, as you can see we're pretty quirky here, haha" he continues. You walk a while and he points out the toilets. "Drinking from the toilets generally isn't encouraged but if you do at least flush first" he chuckles. "Since you're the newest pup you'll of course be expected to have the old dogs check on your work sometimes. But don't worry, they're all gentle giants. They're much more bark than bite, haha" "And this" he says "Will be your work station. Please keep all kibbles and chew toys on your desk, and try to keep shedding to a minimum haha. I'll let you get settled in, and you're welcome to join us in the Dog Bowl at noon, we'll be watching a DVD of Paw Patrol haha, fair warning though belly rubs are mandatory haha" And he walks away while making barking noises.
The fact that this doesn't sound like it couldn't happen in reality is proof of the state of the world we're in. When Onion Parodies become reality is when something seriously needs to be addressed.
Listen. I get that capitalism is always gonna get a bad rap even to the non commie gamer. You dont have to be a comrad, A left leaning person, all you gotta do is be a regular dude and see that capitalism can breed ambivalent mediocrity. However. We gotta know what the line is. Is monopoly CAPITALISM? Yes. I think anyone can agree with it. Now... Is there good capitalism? I think there is. And i think thats the problem. We arent saying what the difference is. We are just saying its all bad and hand waving it. See, we didn't really have an issue in the 90s and 2000s and we still had companies. You even acknowledge it. We had the technology. We had the culture, we had... capitalism. Whether we wanna accept it or not... capitalism was how we also innovated. A free market of ideas... you dont have the better ideas? Someone else is gonna take your consumers from ya. Remember the bit wars? Remember graphic changes from ps1 to 2? Sure the in entive was money... but money was only given from a consumers happiness. A FATHER would rather buy a PS2 that his son could enjoy... with the added benefit that you can put cds for movies. Rather than a CD Player. That SIMPLE THING... an incentive for happiness meant a lot for SO MANY PEOPLE. Maybe you and others might feel otherwise... but that was good capitalism. It could only happen in a free market of ideas. But then... you get monopoly. You get EA, you get the the people that made fallout, fuck... even blizzard got bought. YOU GET FUCKING SHADOW OF MORDORS NEMESIS SYSYEM GETTING COPYRIGHTED... This is whats going downhill. They are paying for licenses to either do nothing with them or simply only monetize them with stuff like microtransactions. This isnt a free market where you need to actually fight for competition. Its owning all the product so ONLY YOU can sell to people. Its why new IPS are getting screwed. They now have to replace the old rather than coincidence with them. Rather than having great games together. You gotta put them at odds with each other. Its prolly why noone gives platform fighters that arent smash bros a chance. Its bottling your nostalgia and saying noone else can give you something great. Cause MONEY So many people. HATE SONIC GAMES NOW. and get their kicks off indie shit. Youll never hear the end of it. DONT YOU SEE MAN. Its monopoly. You own peoples past and your the only one who can give it to them. So of course they buy fifa.and pokemon.... etc. And because those originals did so well. Anyone that is influenced by it has to be a cheap copy... a clone. And you know what sucks? I dont know how to fix it. There are tons of games out there. Some prolly better than the old nostalgic ones... but the consumer just... not help themselves. Pokemon, COD, Fifa... they cant let go cause... ironically. They still got hope. Hope that one day they just might get it right. When maybe... we just gotta leave the past behind. And maybe give dollars to people who actually care. Idk how to solve it. Im just a dude. And i know with this can of worms of capitalism... maybe along the way its just gonna be a Political Talking Spree rather than actual discussion. But from i think. What i believe. Is that capitalism helped us for a time... its just when it became a monopoly... that the soul left. I hope this issue gets fixed. But... I just dont know.
maybe it's the speed of the tech and industries growth combined with the slower speed that governments can act on those things? their are countries that starting to regulate on some of the bad game practices like the UK , Japan , Netherland and Belgium. I think capitalisms by itself really can't work or would just be really bad but we have always had governments that make/enforce laws to deal with any bad outcomes from capitalism or people in general. Capitalism can provide allot of good it just has to be regulated enough to deal with bad outcomes (like cooperate stagnation and exploitation of consumers) and not too regulated that it stifles growth and makes stagnation on the other end (where only big companies can thrive) and if you want to make a difference maybe get involved in local politics(not asking you to run, but making suggestions to your local government/officials and voting) can be very empowering and you can start smaller and build up to bigger things (like advocating the restriction of bad practices in gaming). their are people like Louis Rossmann on youtube who have been pushing for better repair law to counteract tech companies trying to limit reparability of products. it may take a while to get their but any good change take effort and or time.
I appreciate your sentiment but this is an analysis of capitalism from a purely American centric viewpoint. You think capitalism was good in the 90’s and 2000’s because you personally were not experiencing the consequences of capitalism, the sins of capitalism had not yet come home to roost as it were. For the rest of the world outside of America, especially countries in South America and Africa, capitalism has always been ruthless, always been exploitative, and always been a monopoly. It was just happening “over there”, perpetrated by the same bad actors fucking up your shit here in the modern day. TLDR; It’s always been bad, it’s just finally bad for you now instead of just everybody else
Damn CJ, putting out a huge video like this is crazy. Honestly, I’ve been playing Helldivers 2, and it’s been the best game in a long while I’ve played. I’ve been quite bored, so getting HD2 has been a breath of fresh air for me. I’ve been truly interested and invested in gaming again after a long time of feeling as though it was all just dull monotony. I definitely think you’re right, a lot of people are guided by nostalgia in the games they like. I think gaming itself has changed, the companies that make the games we love have evolved, grown larger. I also think a lot of people have also simply gotten older, which has changed their feelings towards gaming as a whole. I think that generally, because the corporations have become too large, that because they make too much money, the point of gaming as a whole has changed. Fun in gaming’s not what matters, the amount of money to be made off of the game is.
Haven't even watched the vid yet but I genuinely thank you for using your voice regardless of who hears it to at least get this message out there. It's fairly important to critique things like this for some type of social improvement. Also props on learning how to ghost lmao, saw ya story
Ngl I thought this video was gonna be some shill take like "Just play indie games bro!!!" But nah this was a very well thought out video CJ. Stay strong in life my guy 🙏 Also the take around Capitalism the issue I have with that take is the fact that capitalism is the closest way we can manage innovation in art as much as people hate it. Its why "Voting with our wallets" is an important practice toward bad product. As imperfect as the system is its the closest one that will allow more new forms of art to be attempted because more people have choice in what they want to financially support.
That was a really great video, man. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Love that you're able to see the root of gaming's problems (the root of most problems, actually) and tackle the subject honestly and in an entertaining way. It's cool to see someone using gaming as an excuse to build class consciousness. Most of all, I highly appreciate your optimism! I knew things would be interesting on this channel once I saw that noodle video (which was fucking hilarious by the way).
12:32 let's all take a moment of silence for the last thing I recorded on my AT2020 before it ate shit and died (on that very recording session.) 2020-2023 RIP 😞
Very good video, your voice is pleasant to listen to. I can highly agree with the idea of word of mouth being the way to find a game or to a lesser extent, finding in the game store to be one of the most memorable experiences I've had. 999 nonary game is one of the best experiences I've had because a friend I was talking to told me about it, simply saying it was a puzzle game, but when I played it I was mind blown by how captivating the story was. It's also the fact that I played a recent game that was released was the same creator of 999, helping the mystery of the recent game, adding another whole layer to my speculation of what happened at the end of the game, despite said game not giving me an answer. Its games like these that make me love playing video games as it's just extremely fun to speculate when they dont give you an answer or you cant search it up, only theories. A prime example currently is deltarune/undertale with gaster n all. Anyway, sorry for the yap session, looking forward to that mrbeast video.👍
22:15 They did care what would sell - only they went about things differently. The M.O. was "lets make the best game possible - then we'll make all the money" But as a market matures, so does the path of profit-seeking. Now the M.O. is more like "Lets make the most profit possible, and make sure the game is just frustrating enough to encourage even more purchases down the way. 24:55 Capitalism isn't the problem. It doesnt matter how well thought-out your system is -if you have imperfect input then that system will run rough. And i can't think of more imperfect input than human beings. 26:15 The system isn't the problem. There is a great song in the Doom:Eternal ost. 🎵The Only Thing they Fear is You. 🎵 If the system is treating you poorly, then only those subject to the system can /will change it or abandon it or put up with it. You have a sheep mentality it sounds like to me, where you are waiting for the system to treat you better. It isn't going to ever treat you better until you demand it treats you better. Gaming did not start out as a corporate entity. Gaming was coders and bored nerds trying to create something amazing. I was there. I remember. Yes we could buy games - but just as often we made our own games. We edited the code to our own games. Modders & Coders are still doing that thankfully. You joked about a coup. There does need to be one. We Had #GamerGate. The fact is Real Change is tiny changes that millions of people do everyday. Not one big explosion. Don't let them trick you into thinking that way. Likewise with politics, if you get up and care once every 4 years - you dont give a shit. Likewise if you ONLY* change your spending habits when they fuck up that one game you like - You dont give a shit. So start by learning to give one.
I was looking for a way to put it, this was it. And you expanding on it in a way I'm very appreciative of. The audience was asked to name out an example of the last game to surprise them and I've been meaning to find an appropriate outlet to share this with. Only very recently have I really been paying games if I'm going to be honest with you. two years ago at this point I'm pretty sure was when I first got this and PC. It was my first, and allowed me to uhh download more games because the main reason up til then that I haven't been playing as much as I would like was money, you get the picture. Of course around this time and the reason I was able to get it in the first place was because I am and was working my ass off. Around that time I also had school, my point in all that being I haven't been playing a lot of games in the first place. Nevertheless I have come around to playing a few, mostly Anime style games so if that doesn't interest you I'd emplore you to read the rest of my comment and give my rec's and reasoning's some good faith consideration. At the time I was unaware of the phenomenon covered as the topic for this video so I was unable to put into good words the reason for my experiences and what exactly I was experiencing. For these four games each I had a bit of a shared experience, a moment with each game where while I was seated playing, fully immersed I would become really self aware suddenly noticing how much I was fully engaging with the work and asked myself something along the lines of "This is what video games felt like" it's funny tho cuz all I could say was "this is a video game" as if it's more of a video game than others XD the first was in I think early 2021, during online school. A tough time for me but I won't get into it, all that's relevant was that I was extremely busy then. A little context first, up til this point, or really a year prior, all the gaming I had been doing was through Splatoon. I was poor with no pirating available so I wasn't able to buy new games, all the games I had bought I'd have thoroughly exhausted. This stage in gaming for me was about two to three years and while yes the previous year I had tried out 1 or 2 the one I remember was a vn and while I really loved and love it still it didn't have the same "gaming" effect on me as I viewed it more as a story than anything, it was kinetic aswell so that didn't help. Either way, this was a first full whole ass new game experience I'd have had in a while. I was watching youtube when a video about Hyperdimension Neptunia was rec'd to me and I looked into it a bit, I was showned some basic concepts that were presented as the premise for the games, a history of the series and just love from those who played it. This was really inspiring to me so before finishing the video I went ahead and bought it, as to avoid spoilers. I was Impressed, astonished, mystified. There was so... much, and don't get me wrong I don't mean that in the way of there was so much content, I mean it was a jrpg so maybe there was idk, but like there was so much THOUGHT put into it, I was thoroughly impressed. The entry in the series I had was Megadimension Neptunia VII, there is I believe 3 or maybe 5 before this was one but honestly this one was a pretty good introduction anyway. But I still remember VIVIDLY one moment I had in this game that really impacted me in a way I hadn't felt for a long time til that point, I won't share too much but basically there was a point moreso closer to the beginning to middle where due to some events in the story the main cast was split up. There was confusion amongst them, and a sense of urgency and tension due to the circumstances, then as the protag was about to head on their way after deciding on what to do to deal with the situation, the screen changed and a menu popped up. Four Cards, one for each of the protags, you choose whose story you're gonna follow. It really doesn't sound like that much typing it out, but maybe because of how well the game was engaging me with the story, I was just kinda stunned, I sat there for a good amount of time really just, trying to soak up the moment and what I was feeling. The music was really good there was this awesome bass, I sat there for a genuine 3 hours to the same melody just vibing XD. Honestly I think, now I know how cringey this sounds, but hear me out okay, that feeling was very unique and new to me at that time, as well as having been doing school and work I don't believe it's so far fetched that I might think this but, I think that was genuine "fun" and I hadn't felt that in a long time. That's all I'm going to write in this text box, this is a long and very goofy soundin ahh comment, but to say a lil more about the game, The protags are personifactions of video game consoles, the premise is an allegory to the console wars, the stories are based off video game history. I don't want to say too much because I believe experiencing the story for yourself and what video game history is used and how it's used really keeps you on the edge of your seat. As well as the other gameplay aspects aswell tho. I could have wrote about that too but I'm not gonna. Unless someone reads this and is interested of course :)
This video was certainly.. a lot. But in a good way. It made me reflect on a lot of the things I've started appreciating recently and how I interact with the mediums I love. I buy all my music on bandcamp or as a vinyl. I support and celebrate indie games to everyone I know. I do not engage in games that I know are predatory and encourage those around me to think about what they engage with. And the biggest thing is I've dedicated the past four years of my life to understanding Linux, Android, and so much more. I've given up the convenience of Windows, Apple, and other large tech firms in favor of an experience that, in all honesty, kinda sucks sometimes. But you know what? I've learned a lot. I know the stereotype of Linux users is not an appealing one. But this is still something that interests me. It's something I care about. I taught myself how Linux works. Sure, I'm not a savant. But I feel a deeper connection to the stuff I use every day because *I* built it. It feels great to have a system that's fun and engaging to use and I feel good about myself because I've learned something. It's comforting to look back on the tumultuous timeline we find ourselves in and at least know that I've grown as a person. And the only thing I want to do with that knowledge is give back to others who do not currently have that. I've been told by a lot of people that I'm "wasting my potential" by not going into a career based on Linux. To be honest, I don't really care. What can I expect? To be dragged along by the nose by some big company, get paid enough to live but not have the time, and ultimately become a husk of a person? Maybe. Maybe it won't turn out that way. But the thing my soul is screaming at me to do is give back to the community that gave ME so much knowledge and so much freedom. I don't want money. I don't want to play the UA-camr game. I want to teach, I want to grow, I want to LEARN!! And god dammit, I'm GOING to make that happen, whether I get paid or not. Big love, homie. Glad to see you still making stuff despite your situation. Hope you keep growing and creating
What a Masterpiece of the evolution of gaming and how we evolved alongside it. Bravo. I hope life is better for you now, you're a rare soul and you deserve it.
I needed to hear this. Ive been ignoring a friends recommendations even though him and I tend to avoid mainstream games as much as possible. Maybe i should put my own preconceived notions of different games and fear of the unknown aside, and get back to enjoying life.
The worst part of the greed is that these billion dollar companies pocket that money for CEO Yachts instead of recycling it into employment for big projects. All these profits aren't being used to make the art better.
10:21 just a few weeks ago when I was playing Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince and, as opposed to the medieval grasslands that you come to expect from Dragon Quest games, I was dropped into a fucking candy land. I'm talking soda rivers and cake hills. Shit was awesome Even before that, few months ago, I was playing the fan translated "Chibi-Robo: Clean Sweep" and there is just an actual fucking casino in the game with strippers and bunny suits, which that only answered to me why they never officially localized that game
amazing video you are one of the greatest youtuber i seen lately. The way you articulate is very unique i never keep up the good one. Someone commented once games are becoming more iterative is one of the problem which u hit the nail on the hit. Being iterative isn't bad and can be done well, but seeing original games like outer wilds or obra dinn are becoming rarer which make sense as gaming is no longer at its infancy like you said due to advancing techology.
What is your solution? You pointed out a problem, and the only solution I saw was (well simplifying it a bit) to stick together as a community and support games you like (if I'm not mistaken). Idk about most people, but I kind of already do that. I don't really buy triple A games outside of the really good ones like the God of wars of the gaming industry or games made by Japanese developers. Also, I have a huge library of indie games. In terms of games, I think capitalism has proven that if a game drops and its bad, those studios who made those games go under like Luminous Productions and Volition, both who made triple A games. I would push for reforming the system instead of trying something entirely new that might not even work, because you really didn't give a alternative to capitalism.
This comment is interesting because of the dissonance required to make it. I’m gonna start by saying I’m not discounting a solution or a need for one but to act like it’s a “bad” or “disingenuous” thing to engage with a topic people are uncomfortable with having is part of the problem. Am I really going to hold it against a video explaining the atrocities of Nestle just because it didn’t propose a solution? That doesn’t make sense, the conversation is still important and needs to be had. And Capitalism has proven the exact opposite of the point you’re trying to make. Studios don’t automatically “go under” because they make a bad game. Big studios are constantly making bad games devoid of innovation (Madden COD etc.) and they can do it and not worry about it because they have the “Capital” to not care. Money is at the top and innovation is maybe 3rd. Indie developers with passion will never make as much money as a big studio with money, and that studio isn’t doing much to innovate because it doesn’t have to. I mean a simple solution would be to just do the opposite of all the ticks listed against capitalism. Busting corporations and letting Unions form.. Wealth distribution etc.. but when you start talking about that you have to start talking about Socialism and people aren’t ready for the positive impact that taming capitalism with socialism would have. It can still exist under a socialist system of government, the main change is stopping capital from falling into the hands of the few.
@@LintSplinter 1) I don't understand why you are pretending I said he needed to give a 5-year plan on how to reform the game industry as a whole. All I said was that since he didn't give an alternative, I would rather reform the system we already have instead of uprooting the entire system. 2) Cod and Madden are the way they are because people still buy those games even though fundamentally they aren't good games. If people stop buying the new release of Madden or cod, those franchises would die out like Saints Row after the latest installment. You keep implying that capitalism is the sole fault of why those games are they way they are, but that isn't true. The consumers enable those games and those practices, so those games continue to be made because they make a profit. 3) No, capitalism hasn't proven the exact opposite. You just pick two of the biggest, long-running franchises in the gaming industry. It's funny how you didn't talk about suicide squad, that recently released and underperformed and is struggling to make sales. Or are you gonna talk about Square Enix $63 million lost on the Marvel Avengers game that died last year (which are some pretty big IPs)? There is quite literally a punishment for bad games being released. The company loses money, which could lead to the death of the franchise or the studio closing down, like Luminous Productions after Forspoken. Cod, Madden, and FIFA are all long-running franchises that constantly make profits. Do you wanna know another long-running franchise that didn't make profits? Battlefield 2042 that game underperformed and hasn't made a sequel since, unlike that others. 4) it's not "big studios" it's like a handful of studios. The games you listed are either from EA or Activision. There are a ton of other studios that don't make bad games on the level of those studios. 5) You didn't even read what I said. My point wasn't one bad game drops and poof the studio disappears. My point was that there is a punishment for bad games being dropped, and not all gaming studios get away with releasing bad products. Also, why are you bringing up socialism when no one brought that up? Why is your solution to radically change the industry as a whole, when most economies already do a mix of both. Your suggestion of switching over to a socialist system makes no sense. When, by definition of socialism, rejects capitalism.
It's pretty common sense lmao the means if production and ownership of said production should belong to the workers who actually produce said products and not an establishment who owns workers
@@ArchWizardCj What do you say to the owner of those products that built the infrastructure of that company? Someone has to invest time and money into an idea and all the ups and downs that come out of that investment. Also, games aren't a good comparison for this because quite literally anyone can make a game. Indie devs do it all the time, and some teams have less than a handful of people, sometimes even one person making a game. There is no monopoly on the production of games. This is a vast array of knowledge and tools at anyone's disposal when it comes to making games. Lethal company is a good recent example of a game that was created by one person who has all the authority over it.
Missed you very much cj glad to get a easter present from ya hope you yourself have a great easter and looking forward to the next video much love brother
i’ll be honest, this video is just making me want to play visual novels because they’re well… novels. Hotel Dusk room 215 is probably my favorite game ever and it always puts a smile on my face to think about. never beat it myself, just watched a no comentary playthrough and loved it all
Nice topic, I personally think sometimes when people put unrealistic expectations on some of these games need to chill. They set themselves up for a game that was never gonna come out .
When is the last time a game truly surprised me? Helldivers 2, for sure. I thought I was gonna return it when I was buying it, but as soon as I was in I knew I was gonna play it for a long time lol
10:19 I played Dragons dogma for the first time November last year, the whole cutscene after Grigori had me shook. One of my favourite games after that
The “AAA” of yesteryear were done with a team of a handful of people up to maybe 50. The sense of camaraderie was still possible. As the industry and game projects grew, team sizes grew and that fun collaborative setting of friends deteriorated, and companies got more corporate. Partly because they needed others to manage the budgets, who don’t understand what makes games good, and makes everything more homogenous with focus groups. And then on top of that they let ideologues seep through who further controlled what you “can’t” do to make them even more bland, and was pushed to go that way by following ESG guidelines because it nets funds to develop these projects. Because the budgets have gotten overblown. Until more of these games fail big time, the rot from within will persist until it’s removed.
You're lost, this isn't the type of channels that push the ESG conspiracy theories ESG guidelines have nothing to do with video games, there isn't any example of an "ESG guideline" that talk about video games, they focus on diversity among the employees not inside the virtual world created by that company There are tons of good AAA games coming out every year
I mostly play factory games, city builders and alternative strategy games (anything more elaborate than RTS) and I would say we're in a golden age with respect to my preferences.
One of the huge problems that devs are having to deal with is they can no longer just go bigger + better, which was a reliable template for the past 15 years. If you had no other ideas, you could just put more stuff in. As the video notes, the technical side of innovation has flattened out. The Far Cry series is a great example of this. The progression from 2 -> 3 -> 4 was stunning, 5 was a plateau, and 6 was a nosedive. There was no more stuff to put in, and the attempts to tweak prior mechanics was confusing and not compelling. Now you can put as much of anything you want into a game (see Baldur's Gate 3). We have reached the outer limits of "big for the sake of being big" (see Starfield), and yet something like No Man's Sky, which is arguably similar in scope, continues to enthrall. This is a sticky problem. And it's definitely crept into other art forms - you can see it in films; music is a little less complicated and more depressing (while it remains fresh and innovative, it's largely been abandoned by capitalism, in the sense that that particular industry has entered into a death spiral with a half-hearted push every couple years to force people to pay $20 for albums again). Oppenheimer bored the damned shit out of me.
You had me until that capitalism rant, oof. Granted, what you said about it _as it pertains to the current video game industry_ (and other artistic industries, for that matter) I generally agree with, just not so much the fundamental ideas you have of it as an economic system.
Damn. This video makes me think a bit. Been struggling to get the motivation to make my own music despite taking school for it and I'm always thinking "Damn I'm never gonna make money off of this" or "Damn I need to make money so I can support this". I've never openly been a "Capitalism sucks" kinda guy but extrinsic monetary motivation has been a bitch lately. Great vid CJ. Done good.
Real, if I'm tired of the AAA industry, I find that indie games are always great as they're usually made by someone who loves what they do, has a vision that's only theirs and is usually only asking for 5 bucks. The indie and maybe even AA scene seems more in tune with what most of us want, just a fun game.
Pretty myopic conclusion methinks. Capitalism is too easy of a scapegoat for a problem that has so many moving parts to it. You've done well to point out the atomization of audiences, and I'd say a good chunk of the problem lies there. Gaming exploded around the era of Overwatch and e-sports, and as such you got his new, huge chunk of the overall gaming demographic that has had no real experience with the history of the medium at all and no real intention in doing so. How do you expect this type of audience to be receptive to the more artistic side of things when they see games as a toy to keep themselves entertained with? You can blame capitalism for this all you want, but it's the consumer that decides if a product fails or succeeds. It's this new audience that has swayed the direction of a good chunk of the industry, and in turn the industry has tried to keep them there. It's this fucked up symbiotic trap for both. I am of course not saying that gamers **want** to be fed slop, but so many have such a big lack of curiosity, and it's only recently that I've seen nu-gamers really stop and think: "Wait a minute, you're telling me there's more to this medium?" All of this has happened with cinema and music already, it just happened in a much less overt way because the barrier for entry for those was way lower and audiences were there pretty much since day one. The radio and the movie theater were ubiquitous since very early in their inception. A computer or a gaming console + a 60$ game were not. In the early days of each medium you saw innovation because creation was a super gated and exlcusive club. Of course most of everything was going to be novel and unique, shit was NEW. Then you also saw the same type of exploitation, stagnation and denigration happen to these mediums time and time again. But you already said it yourself, the cycle keeps getting broken again and again by the people who are passionate, and capital was the last thing that defined their success. If you're looking at an obvious cynical corporate product and you use it to decry it as the death of art or use it as to demnostrate how society is rotten or whatever, then you really only have yourself to blame, because some of the best art, films, music and videogames ARE coming out this very moment. It's not just the big releases from last year, they've always been there. There's almost too much, it's staggering. You just have to make the effort to look around now instead of it being handed to you on a silver platter.
I disagree that capitalism is the cause. Gaming has always existed within capitalism for the entire duration of its existence. The only game that I know of that came out of communism was Tetris.
A brilliant video that was a wild ride the whole way through. We share similar views on cultural and societal issues, I appreciate you being blunt with your observations on capitalism. So many other UA-camrs (or people in general) fear the backlash that comes with criticising the system (as seen by some of the other comments). I'm not an artist myself, so I have a much different frame of reference on the subject, however your perspective on art is always thought provoking to me. I question the motives of some of these people making the "gaming sucks now" videos, comes across as trend chasing, inauthentic behaviour. While I know you moved into a different direction (focusing on the cause, rather than the problem), I do agree with the title. When I was depressed I thought gaming was shit. Now that I'm in a much better place mentally, it's enjoyable again. Live service games really have the ability to suck out your soul and vowing to never play one again has helped with enjoyment. The rituals of play we have lost through advances in technology are a real shame, playing games with your friends on discord isn't the same as being in the same room, you don't build those memories. I hope things are going better for you man, and if not, I hope they improve in the near future.
Much love man. I appreciate this message w ton honestly
"Being well adjusted to a sick society is no sign of mental health"
"These are not political stances; these are anti-dying stances."
Man, CJ, I have not even finished this essay, and yet I already have to applaud your delivery.
Me wanting to be trans:
@@BlooperStupid How many more substitutes for a genuine personality do you need?
"Monetary innovation bends the art over a table, sexually assaults it, and then gaslights it afterwards." This line was good. I'm sure there are examples of positive monetary innovation (digital sales platforms making it easier for indies in all art forms to find a niche audience, etc) but if we actually thought about monetary innovation not from the lens of, "how can we make MORE money?" but, "how can we enable artists (of all forms) to make a living? How can we divorce money from art in a healthy way?" Can we subsidize it to create a more even playing field? Can we reduce the power of large corporations? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
You make some interesting points, and while you are definitely correct about the state of the AAA game industry, I can't help but feel you've downplayed indie games quite a bit. You say there is no meaningful art (24:47), but games such as Superliminal and Manifold Garden are incredible artworks and memorably unique. You say indie games have struggled to break through the surface, but they've been doing gangbusters with games like Pizza Tower, Lethal Company, hell FNAF is a bit old but it spawned a whole subgenre of games and has become arguably the most well-known horror game nowadays. Anyway, I just wanted to put my two cents in. I'm sorry to hear about all you went through, I hope you're doing better. Great video!
there's something funny to say about fnaf, it's a good example of a small indie game making it big and slowly shifting itself to "fit the market" it created, losing it's meaning in the process.
even success can be failure.
the thing is though, for each of the Indie games that make it big, that have popular support and allow the creators to continue making art, there are at least 1000 more Indie games and even more Indie devs, that don't make it big and who eventually give up
@@asrielgoddard8 Correct, but that's the case with any form of art. My point was simply that there ARE indie games doing well.
Getting this video out felt like giving birth lol shoutout to Shino for the beautiful visuals on this project. It was outstanding working with her
Does this Shino person publish somewhere? Or are there sources of any kind for the visuals used? They are genuinely jaw dropping.
@@bastiancu2365 as far as I know no, but shes in the discord if you wanna ask her lol
I was definitely blown away by the visuals in the vid and I really feel like they don't get enough credit.
_"I've only been reading dictionaries for the past 6 years. I don't think Books are fun anymore."_
Bro this the realest shit talked about this topic, like fr mfs be yapping about their own experiences, not the general gaming experiences. (Love your editing btw, this gotta be probably the best editing I've seen this year.) Can't wait for the next video premiere
GOD I can’t get enough of this video. Every time i rewatch I learn more. It’s incredible, great work man.
I’ve always thought part of the issue is that mediocre games get such huge marketing budgets. Amazing indies and AA games get pushed to the wayside, and everyone thinks assasin’s creed and the sorcerer’s stone or whatever is all the industry is putting out. The loudest voices are singing over the rest of the choir, and they sound like shit.
"when was the last time a game surprised you?"- "well, it was actually a lp because I didn't have the VR console - it was Half-Life:Alyx. The ending blew my mind because *It did the impossible.*
I really like the video. I've been feeling this way for a while now, but with UA-cam instead of videogames. It seems more and more UA-camrs are less and less personal. I'm happy I found your channel because it made me like UA-cam again. I would say it seems lots of people are following a formula to maximize profits because they are afraid of risk. This could be the big reason why UA-cam has been feeling less personal. Losing profit negatively impacts your livelihood which is kind of messed up 🙂. Anyway, after watching noodle's video on the BG3 discourse I found a comment recommending your videos. I'm very glad I found you, and all I gotta say is neat video.
PS: Also thanks for putting a light on what noodle was doing in that video. It seemed really disingenuous, and you compiled all the information really well into one video making it easy for a viewer to see what was really going on.
You are going to LOVE the next video lmao
After a turn of a millennium, we get a fresh cj vid.
(Amazing video btw)
much love and thank you
First found your channel when you dropped the Noodle vid and thought, "Damn, I think this guy gets it."
Watched this video and thought, "DAMN, this guy gets it!"
Damn hope ur feeling ok, please take as much time as it takes to make a video. Your well being is more important than our entertainment.
cant unfortunately
@@ArchWizardCj Why?
@@eigintasbaranauskas7519 ligma 😔😔
I think you raise a perfectly valid point that many games back in the earliest era of video games were designed to be fun first. Though there are exceptions like many arcade games often being designed to be brutally unfair to get as many plays out of people as possible. Stuff like the concept of a life counter where if you run out you "Game Over" is a product of how arcade machines made money. The argument can be made that difficulty is a creative choice in crafting an experience, but in many ways, the difficulty of the arcade era was artificial and not as meaningful.
Another thing I want to bring up is how video games never simply started as an art form solely for enjoyment, as opposed to lots of other art forms that have existed for much longer, like poetry, theater, etc. It began under a capitalist system and their creation and widespread adoption could only be justified as a means to make profit. I stress this because the process of making a video game in that early era was rarely as simple and painless as "I have this idea, sounds like fun, let's make it" as it comes off in your examples of Tennis for Two, Pong, and Rogue. Many games in the 70s and 80s were made on shoestring budgets with little support given to devs and often no credit was granted to them. A notable example is Adventure on the Atari 2600 which had a hidden convoluted easter egg of the developer's name because he wasn't legally allowed to take credit publicly for his own work as a programmer. This labor exploitation has continued in the games industry since, though crediting practices have certainly improved across the board, but many developers are still overworked and underpaid industry wide. That is even with the rapid expansion the industry has undergone. Over time the expansion has gone more into making games more attractive and addictive to the average consumer (and therefore expanding profits for executives and shareholders).
I bring this up because I want to challenge the notion that video games as an artform began as this pure, untainted creative movement of nothing but passion that was only corrupted when MTX and DLC and live service came in when so much of it was profit driven very early on. Yes, the passion was always there from developers to make something fun and novel for players. Sure, the experience on the player side was brand new and the limits were constantly being tested and broken for decades. But the profit motive existed at the start too and shaped how all games have formed. The people who do the work to make the games have been exploited since the start and still are. The difference is now the players are feeling the exploitation too.
Yeah I agree, cause I feel like he’s using capitalism as an excuse on almost everything why gaming is “bad”. While I do see where’s he talking about, that doesn’t mean we should ignore the pro’s on what capitalism did to it cause that what it feels like in this video, constantly bashing on capitalism for unknown reasons (maybe for a bias reason).
@@positivea9111 I don't think you realized the point of their comment. Their comment was that since the industry formed under capitalism it was always a profit-driven industry, and exploiting developers has been the name of the game ever since. It's just that now, things have progressed to where the gamers are also feeling the effects of exploitation.
@@mikehorne4053 Yeah that’s why we got to find a solution to prevent it instead of constantly bashing something on we dislike.
@@positivea9111 The solution to problems caused by having the profit-motive as the sole driving economic factor is to instead advocate a system that partially or wholly replaces it in favor of different driving forces, of which there are many.
@@positivea9111i agree that some more solutions could be spit balled, but i don't think it's just bashing capitalism for the sake of bashing capitalism, its a critique on a poisonous aspects of capitalism thats been killing the industry.
Also out of curiosity, what are the pros that capitalism has brought to games?
Disco Elysium is a perfect example. A literal work of art, I needn't say anything else. If you know, you know.
Shit sux GTFO with your agenda
"Communist art can't exist under capitalism!"
>Wins several game of the year awards and earns a shit ton of profit under capitalism.
Why are commies like this?
@@thelookingglass308They are the best midwits out there.
haven't even watched it yet but i just remembered and rewatched the noodle video just to see this dropped AND this topic is literally spiritually aligned with where i've been at the past week how did you do this
Incredible video. Everyone NEEDS to see this. Instant subscribe. Can't wait to watch your backlog!
thank you man and much love
yep, there are still good games out there. Also there is a huge backlog of games too. It only gets depressing if the AAA industry is your sole source of games. Thank you for a well thought out video. Some food for thought for my part.
Shino, the video editor, definitely understands that because a lot of the visuals in the background were great indie games I've heard about or played myself.
Even if you only play AAA games there are tons of good games
I have so many questions and thoughts about this video, but all in all this has been amazing! great work dude. I can't help but note the choice of game OSTs that you've used and I can't express how well you got it
Visuals on the second half of this video damn near felt like Evangelion
Huh, I just realized I might have a...well not unique, but less common perspective on this. I am and have been extremely antisocial, keep a very small friend group whose tastes in games rarely overlap, and avoid all forms of fandom like the plague (they tend to ruin things for me). From my point of view, the only changes that have happened to AAA games have been more predatory monetization. To be fair, that has driven me away from mainstream games in favor of indies, but I'd never say something like "gaming sucks now."
As for the question at around 10:28, like six months ago. CrossCode is full of surprises.
Indie games are the way they are because they avoid publishers and seek profit as the secondary effect of creating a fun game that they are passionate about.
The business side of the industry has always been extremely exploitative, from programmers barred from having their names in the games, to the horror stories of crunch in studios. It's just that now, that exploitation has leaked out and begun being directed at the consumer as well.
You know what? I actually needed to hear this. I actually legit thought gaming was falling off until my best friend showed me From Software. When Armored Core 6 was nearing it's release, I actually decided to play the older games, and the best part about all this was that the entire thing became a genuine eye opener...
The From Software we know today, is still the *exact* same one that first made Armored Core back in the 90s, not just from the ideas but from the literal staff who stuck around for 20+ years. They were the ones who spat at the modern gaming market chasing Call of Duty and made Dark Souls 1 ANYWAY! The market demanded a Ubisoft type open world and they made Elden Ring anyway.
That studio is also a very huge reason why I am still here today, it helped me keep fighting depression knowing that things can and will get better.
Video Games aren't any different from television or music, besides how interactive they are. We can talk about, bond, and form communities about them. Since Video Games are interactive, each person's experience is unique. You can learn about new games from talking to people, and learn more about them from playing them. I have a friend/coworker who recommended me Dead Cells, and that game is a masterpiece. That's only part of the reason I love Video Games so much. I can go on and on about it.
P.S. love the clips you use in this video. Looking forward to the MGS3 Remake for PS5.
You knocked it out of the park once again with this analysis. It emphasizes so many of the feelings I've felt without being able to put them to words. Thank you for the continued work you do to share with us all.
YEEESSSS SOCIAL ANALYSIS BRO ACTUALLY TALKED ABOUT THE REAL PROBLEM!!!!
also Im not sleeping tonight because of some of those visuals lol
I wouldn't say it's because of Capitalism, but rather Corporativism and even greed in general. The major problem that made most of the AAA games nowadays shit is that the industry became like a corporation. It isn't about "making fun games" anymore, it's "making games that generate the most money". Even if Capitalism was where Corporativism was based off of, the awnser is not to blame the tree (I know I know, it goes against most common sense, but believe me when I say that a system that existed for almost all of humanity itself, in some way, is not to blame for the modern degradation of games), but to blame the poison ivy that grew around it.
And what's the solution to that? Simple: Don't buy modern games, don't interact with "live services" and the like and, specially, broaden your range and scope for obtaining games. You don't need to buy cosmetic skins, you don't need to play the Popular Thing™ just because it's popular and you don't need to look over AAA releases for the "good stuff". Literally just open your eyes to the indie, AA and anything else below and inbetween.
@preacher3958Unfortunately, most of the criticism that is thrown around to that system can be resolved by simply not interacting with the product you consider bad.
Best comment here.
I agree with this comment and I definitely think it's a good thing to pair with the video itself. It's difficult to not blame the problems on capitalism since it's really the only economic system that exists, but where there is money, there will be people who will want the most of it - even communism had this issue. Corporatism is just the current parasite compatible with this species of commerce and economy.
@@courier6932 *cut to Apple removing headphone jacks and every other phone company following in their footsteps even though most smartphone users at the time hated not having the option to use wired headphones anymore. Or when TikTok became the largest video sharing platform and every other platform started implementing short form content.* This almost never works anymore unless it's an organized targeted attack (i.e. A boycott)
@@Byriii I guess you stay with your principles until they become unfeasable then.
I stg ive been thinking on this exact wavelength.
People used to do so much social interaction as kids especially when it came to games as the most simple things like have 4players was jaw dropping.
The generations of gamers grew up along side the technology, and evolving world so its kinda like getting older and leaving things you like behind that you used to fondly love; its a jarring rapid evolution.
A worse problem imo, is how some people treat gaming less like a hobby , and more like a lifestyle eventually leading them to a General cynical viewpoint because they never took the opportunity to Let that comfort go . Its a coping mechanism (mainly this is for streamers and content creators stuck in a box)
Anyways great video surprised you DIDNT TAKE ANOTHER YEAR ONG
Holy shit, I was wondering if you were going to make a video that matched your last one in quality, and you blew my expectations COMPLETELY out of the water. I've been contemplating doing a video on a similar subject, but you did it more justice than I ever could. Massive props!
Much love man very high praise and I'm incredibly grateful for that
It has been a solid decade since I've agreed this much with a piece of media. I swear this man is in my head. Thank you so much for putting things in a much more elegant way than I ever could, and giving a voice to people like me who have trouble finding the words to speak for themselves.
its genuinely my pleasure man
Mans gonna smoke a “cigarette” and not even offer us a drag that’s tuff
Great video as always big dawg. I’m glad that you can still see the beauty in the world despite everything you went through, and I’m sorry you had to go through it. You’re a stronger man than most
I was sent this video by a friend and have watched it twice. Seriously some of the best content on youtube. Just subbed and joined your patreon. Hope to see you get the views and subscribers you deserve in the near future.
I like how some of this feels like an expansion on the art is a science video, ive really liked hearing you talk about this stuff and it has given me quite a bit to think about that i take for granted
Never got notified about this video which is stupid because I genuinely love your work brother, and I agree bro
So what you are saying is ... We should uproot capitalism by its root in a worldwide revolution aiming at instauring the dictatoriship of the proletariat and topple the ruling bourgeois class ? I mean, if that means we get our gaming back, i have to consider ...
I never really say this but I really love your content keep it up man.
Well... While greed is certainly poluting games... I think Greed is *corrupting* capitalism, rather than capitalism being the cause itself of cultural decay.
And what better word to demostrate this corruption of Capitalism than this handy dandy term: *Corporativism.*
I love how culture evolves, I dislike people that make “games are not fun anymore” videos and hope the hedonistic treadmill that those people run on slightly inclines
You go over how the video game industry has changed for the worse in ways, the games being made more and more for profit, or 'played' for a crowd (and not actually played by its fans), so on. It's all solvable in one manner, and Reggie Fils-Aimé put it down perfectly: "If it's not fun, why bother?" Video games should always prioritize, first and foremost, the enjoyment of the game. Everything should come second. Nostalgia, or even proclaimed 'artistic value' can only be derived from something if it's enjoyable at its basest level. Same with painting, books, TV, just about every other form of media out there is the same. Nobody would be calling Michaelangelo or whoever the hell 'artistic' if they didn't watch his plays and think 'that was pretty good'. And one developer that really epitomizes everything wrong with the industry, a fallen hero, mass layoffs, the pretentious ivory tower directors, the obsession with remakes, remasters and sequels... Naughty Dog.
Imagine it's your first day at Naughty Dog.
The guy who's giving you the studio tour, let's call him "Mark", gives you a wry grin and says "We're all naughty dogs here" as he leads you down a bright orange corridor.
"Here's the kennel" he points out and points out the break room, "And down here is the dog bowl. That's what we call the cafeteria, as you can see we're pretty quirky here, haha" he continues.
You walk a while and he points out the toilets. "Drinking from the toilets generally isn't encouraged but if you do at least flush first" he chuckles.
"Since you're the newest pup you'll of course be expected to have the old dogs check on your work sometimes. But don't worry, they're all gentle giants. They're much more bark than bite, haha"
"And this" he says "Will be your work station. Please keep all kibbles and chew toys on your desk, and try to keep shedding to a minimum haha. I'll let you get settled in, and you're welcome to join us in the Dog Bowl at noon, we'll be watching a DVD of Paw Patrol haha, fair warning though belly rubs are mandatory haha"
And he walks away while making barking noises.
This is so true.
Also the commentary on the game industry was pretty insightful
The fact that this doesn't sound like it couldn't happen in reality is proof of the state of the world we're in. When Onion Parodies become reality is when something seriously needs to be addressed.
that aint gonna fuckin happen man where's the MONEY!?!?
Listen. I get that capitalism is always gonna get a bad rap even to the non commie gamer.
You dont have to be a comrad, A left leaning person, all you gotta do is be a regular dude and see that capitalism can breed ambivalent mediocrity.
However. We gotta know what the line is.
Is monopoly CAPITALISM? Yes. I think anyone can agree with it. Now...
Is there good capitalism? I think there is.
And i think thats the problem. We arent saying what the difference is. We are just saying its all bad and hand waving it. See, we didn't really have an issue in the 90s and 2000s and we still had companies. You even acknowledge it. We had the technology. We had the culture, we had... capitalism.
Whether we wanna accept it or not... capitalism was how we also innovated. A free market of ideas... you dont have the better ideas? Someone else is gonna take your consumers from ya.
Remember the bit wars? Remember graphic changes from ps1 to 2? Sure the in entive was money... but money was only given from a consumers happiness.
A FATHER would rather buy a PS2 that his son could enjoy... with the added benefit that you can put cds for movies. Rather than a CD Player. That SIMPLE THING... an incentive for happiness meant a lot for SO MANY PEOPLE.
Maybe you and others might feel otherwise... but that was good capitalism. It could only happen in a free market of ideas.
But then... you get monopoly. You get EA, you get the the people that made fallout, fuck... even blizzard got bought. YOU GET FUCKING SHADOW OF MORDORS NEMESIS SYSYEM GETTING COPYRIGHTED...
This is whats going downhill. They are paying for licenses to either do nothing with them or simply only monetize them with stuff like microtransactions. This isnt a free market where you need to actually fight for competition. Its owning all the product so ONLY YOU can sell to people.
Its why new IPS are getting screwed. They now have to replace the old rather than coincidence with them. Rather than having great games together. You gotta put them at odds with each other.
Its prolly why noone gives platform fighters that arent smash bros a chance. Its bottling your nostalgia and saying noone else can give you something great. Cause MONEY
So many people. HATE SONIC GAMES NOW. and get their kicks off indie shit. Youll never hear the end of it.
DONT YOU SEE MAN. Its monopoly. You own peoples past and your the only one who can give it to them. So of course they buy fifa.and pokemon.... etc. And because those originals did so well. Anyone that is influenced by it has to be a cheap copy... a clone.
And you know what sucks? I dont know how to fix it. There are tons of games out there. Some prolly better than the old nostalgic ones... but the consumer just... not help themselves.
Pokemon, COD, Fifa... they cant let go cause... ironically. They still got hope. Hope that one day they just might get it right.
When maybe... we just gotta leave the past behind. And maybe give dollars to people who actually care.
Idk how to solve it. Im just a dude. And i know with this can of worms of capitalism... maybe along the way its just gonna be a Political Talking Spree rather than actual discussion.
But from i think. What i believe. Is that capitalism helped us for a time... its just when it became a monopoly... that the soul left.
I hope this issue gets fixed. But...
I just dont know.
maybe it's the speed of the tech and industries growth combined with the slower speed that governments can act on those things? their are countries that starting to regulate on some of the bad game practices like the UK , Japan , Netherland and Belgium. I think capitalisms by itself really can't work or would just be really bad but we have always had governments that make/enforce laws to deal with any bad outcomes from capitalism or people in general. Capitalism can provide allot of good it just has to be regulated enough to deal with bad outcomes (like cooperate stagnation and exploitation of consumers) and not too regulated that it stifles growth and makes stagnation on the other end (where only big companies can thrive) and if you want to make a difference maybe get involved in local politics(not asking you to run, but making suggestions to your local government/officials and voting) can be very empowering and you can start smaller and build up to bigger things (like advocating the restriction of bad practices in gaming). their are people like Louis Rossmann on youtube who have been pushing for better repair law to counteract tech companies trying to limit reparability of products.
it may take a while to get their but any good change take effort and or time.
I appreciate your sentiment but this is an analysis of capitalism from a purely American centric viewpoint. You think capitalism was good in the 90’s and 2000’s because you personally were not experiencing the consequences of capitalism, the sins of capitalism had not yet come home to roost as it were. For the rest of the world outside of America, especially countries in South America and Africa, capitalism has always been ruthless, always been exploitative, and always been a monopoly. It was just happening “over there”, perpetrated by the same bad actors fucking up your shit here in the modern day. TLDR; It’s always been bad, it’s just finally bad for you now instead of just everybody else
@@ExtremelySadManIs that why third world contries always wanted to switch to communism in the 70's...🤔
Damn CJ, putting out a huge video like this is crazy. Honestly, I’ve been playing Helldivers 2, and it’s been the best game in a long while I’ve played. I’ve been quite bored, so getting HD2 has been a breath of fresh air for me. I’ve been truly interested and invested in gaming again after a long time of feeling as though it was all just dull monotony.
I definitely think you’re right, a lot of people are guided by nostalgia in the games they like. I think gaming itself has changed, the companies that make the games we love have evolved, grown larger. I also think a lot of people have also simply gotten older, which has changed their feelings towards gaming as a whole.
I think that generally, because the corporations have become too large, that because they make too much money, the point of gaming as a whole has changed. Fun in gaming’s not what matters, the amount of money to be made off of the game is.
Im almost speechless. Gave me alot to think about.
Get him more views NOW! 🗣️
Haven't even watched the vid yet but I genuinely thank you for using your voice regardless of who hears it to at least get this message out there. It's fairly important to critique things like this for some type of social improvement. Also props on learning how to ghost lmao, saw ya story
Great video as always, got a bit yappy at points but once again, W video, CJ vindication acquired.
Amazing vid my guy, and a very welcome one at that. Keep up the good work and good luck on your personal problems, we are always rooting for you!
Damn, I feel that. I’m in a really good spot in my life now. Actually happy, and enjoy things much more now. Video games included.
Seeing you drop a video is an Easter miracle. You’ve been missed my G.
Ngl I thought this video was gonna be some shill take like "Just play indie games bro!!!" But nah this was a very well thought out video CJ. Stay strong in life my guy 🙏
Also the take around Capitalism the issue I have with that take is the fact that capitalism is the closest way we can manage innovation in art as much as people hate it. Its why "Voting with our wallets" is an important practice toward bad product. As imperfect as the system is its the closest one that will allow more new forms of art to be attempted because more people have choice in what they want to financially support.
Good video I’m sad now
Rarely can I stay focused on a video, rarer that I like it, and even rarer that I sub.
That was a really great video, man. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Love that you're able to see the root of gaming's problems (the root of most problems, actually) and tackle the subject honestly and in an entertaining way. It's cool to see someone using gaming as an excuse to build class consciousness. Most of all, I highly appreciate your optimism! I knew things would be interesting on this channel once I saw that noodle video (which was fucking hilarious by the way).
alright I've been watching your channel for about a year now and it was only RIGHT NOW I realized that your pfp is not Patrick Star
12:32
let's all take a moment of silence for the last thing I recorded on my AT2020 before it ate shit and died (on that very recording session.)
2020-2023
RIP 😞
Gone but not forgotten 😔
Very good video, your voice is pleasant to listen to. I can highly agree with the idea of word of mouth being the way to find a game or to a lesser extent, finding in the game store to be one of the most memorable experiences I've had. 999 nonary game is one of the best experiences I've had because a friend I was talking to told me about it, simply saying it was a puzzle game, but when I played it I was mind blown by how captivating the story was. It's also the fact that I played a recent game that was released was the same creator of 999, helping the mystery of the recent game, adding another whole layer to my speculation of what happened at the end of the game, despite said game not giving me an answer. Its games like these that make me love playing video games as it's just extremely fun to speculate when they dont give you an answer or you cant search it up, only theories. A prime example currently is deltarune/undertale with gaster n all. Anyway, sorry for the yap session, looking forward to that mrbeast video.👍
watching these videos especially the beginning makes me feel like I'm in an ancient Greek auditorium listening to an wise but high philosopher
Wait he’s cooking yall‼️
22:15 They did care what would sell - only they went about things differently. The M.O. was "lets make the best game possible - then we'll make all the money" But as a market matures, so does the path of profit-seeking. Now the M.O. is more like "Lets make the most profit possible, and make sure the game is just frustrating enough to encourage even more purchases down the way.
24:55 Capitalism isn't the problem. It doesnt matter how well thought-out your system is -if you have imperfect input then that system will run rough. And i can't think of more imperfect input than human beings. 26:15 The system isn't the problem. There is a great song in the Doom:Eternal ost.
🎵The Only Thing they Fear is You. 🎵
If the system is treating you poorly, then only those subject to the system can /will change it or abandon it or put up with it. You have a sheep mentality it sounds like to me, where you are waiting for the system to treat you better. It isn't going to ever treat you better until you demand it treats you better. Gaming did not start out as a corporate entity. Gaming was coders and bored nerds trying to create something amazing. I was there. I remember. Yes we could buy games - but just as often we made our own games. We edited the code to our own games. Modders & Coders are still doing that thankfully.
You joked about a coup. There does need to be one. We Had #GamerGate. The fact is Real Change is tiny changes that millions of people do everyday. Not one big explosion. Don't let them trick you into thinking that way.
Likewise with politics, if you get up and care once every 4 years - you dont give a shit. Likewise if you ONLY* change your spending habits when they fuck up that one game you like - You dont give a shit.
So start by learning to give one.
I was looking for a way to put it, this was it. And you expanding on it in a way I'm very appreciative of.
The audience was asked to name out an example of the last game to surprise them and I've been meaning to find an appropriate outlet to share this with. Only very recently have I really been paying games if I'm going to be honest with you. two years ago at this point I'm pretty sure was when I first got this and PC. It was my first, and allowed me to uhh download more games because the main reason up til then that I haven't been playing as much as I would like was money, you get the picture. Of course around this time and the reason I was able to get it in the first place was because I am and was working my ass off.
Around that time I also had school, my point in all that being I haven't been playing a lot of games in the first place. Nevertheless I have come around to playing a few, mostly Anime style games so if that doesn't interest you I'd emplore you to read the rest of my comment and give my rec's and reasoning's some good faith consideration.
At the time I was unaware of the phenomenon covered as the topic for this video so I was unable to put into good words the reason for my experiences and what exactly I was experiencing. For these four games each I had a bit of a shared experience, a moment with each game where while I was seated playing, fully immersed I would become really self aware suddenly noticing how much I was fully engaging with the work and asked myself something along the lines of "This is what video games felt like" it's funny tho cuz all I could say was "this is a video game" as if it's more of a video game than others XD
the first was in I think early 2021, during online school. A tough time for me but I won't get into it, all that's relevant was that I was extremely busy then. A little context first, up til this point, or really a year prior, all the gaming I had been doing was through Splatoon. I was poor with no pirating available so I wasn't able to buy new games, all the games I had bought I'd have thoroughly exhausted. This stage in gaming for me was about two to three years and while yes the previous year I had tried out 1 or 2 the one I remember was a vn and while I really loved and love it still it didn't have the same "gaming" effect on me as I viewed it more as a story than anything, it was kinetic aswell so that didn't help. Either way, this was a first full whole ass new game experience I'd have had in a while. I was watching youtube when a video about Hyperdimension Neptunia was rec'd to me and I looked into it a bit, I was showned some basic concepts that were presented as the premise for the games, a history of the series and just love from those who played it. This was really inspiring to me so before finishing the video I went ahead and bought it, as to avoid spoilers.
I was Impressed, astonished, mystified. There was so... much, and don't get me wrong I don't mean that in the way of there was so much content, I mean it was a jrpg so maybe there was idk, but like there was so much THOUGHT put into it, I was thoroughly impressed. The entry in the series I had was Megadimension Neptunia VII, there is I believe 3 or maybe 5 before this was one but honestly this one was a pretty good introduction anyway. But I still remember VIVIDLY one moment I had in this game that really impacted me in a way I hadn't felt for a long time til that point, I won't share too much but basically there was a point moreso closer to the beginning to middle where due to some events in the story the main cast was split up. There was confusion amongst them, and a sense of urgency and tension due to the circumstances, then as the protag was about to head on their way after deciding on what to do to deal with the situation, the screen changed and a menu popped up. Four Cards, one for each of the protags, you choose whose story you're gonna follow. It really doesn't sound like that much typing it out, but maybe because of how well the game was engaging me with the story, I was just kinda stunned, I sat there for a good amount of time really just, trying to soak up the moment and what I was feeling. The music was really good there was this awesome bass, I sat there for a genuine 3 hours to the same melody just vibing XD. Honestly I think, now I know how cringey this sounds, but hear me out okay, that feeling was very unique and new to me at that time, as well as having been doing school and work I don't believe it's so far fetched that I might think this but, I think that was genuine "fun" and I hadn't felt that in a long time. That's all I'm going to write in this text box, this is a long and very goofy soundin ahh comment, but to say a lil more about the game, The protags are personifactions of video game consoles, the premise is an allegory to the console wars, the stories are based off video game history. I don't want to say too much because I believe experiencing the story for yourself and what video game history is used and how it's used really keeps you on the edge of your seat. As well as the other gameplay aspects aswell tho. I could have wrote about that too but I'm not gonna. Unless someone reads this and is interested of course :)
super good video, you bringed in the point very well ! thank you, il share with gamer peers
This video was certainly.. a lot. But in a good way. It made me reflect on a lot of the things I've started appreciating recently and how I interact with the mediums I love.
I buy all my music on bandcamp or as a vinyl.
I support and celebrate indie games to everyone I know.
I do not engage in games that I know are predatory and encourage those around me to think about what they engage with.
And the biggest thing is I've dedicated the past four years of my life to understanding Linux, Android, and so much more.
I've given up the convenience of Windows, Apple, and other large tech firms in favor of an experience that, in all honesty, kinda sucks sometimes.
But you know what? I've learned a lot.
I know the stereotype of Linux users is not an appealing one. But this is still something that interests me. It's something I care about.
I taught myself how Linux works. Sure, I'm not a savant. But I feel a deeper connection to the stuff I use every day because *I* built it. It feels great to have a system that's fun and engaging to use and I feel good about myself because I've learned something.
It's comforting to look back on the tumultuous timeline we find ourselves in and at least know that I've grown as a person. And the only thing I want to do with that knowledge is give back to others who do not currently have that. I've been told by a lot of people that I'm "wasting my potential" by not going into a career based on Linux. To be honest, I don't really care. What can I expect? To be dragged along by the nose by some big company, get paid enough to live but not have the time, and ultimately become a husk of a person? Maybe. Maybe it won't turn out that way. But the thing my soul is screaming at me to do is give back to the community that gave ME so much knowledge and so much freedom. I don't want money. I don't want to play the UA-camr game. I want to teach, I want to grow, I want to LEARN!! And god dammit, I'm GOING to make that happen, whether I get paid or not.
Big love, homie. Glad to see you still making stuff despite your situation. Hope you keep growing and creating
I love the censor sound effect you used. Love that show. No, I won't say what it is. YES, I am gatekeeping.
It sounds like my grandpas guitars.
What a Masterpiece of the evolution of gaming and how we evolved alongside it. Bravo. I hope life is better for you now, you're a rare soul and you deserve it.
posting this comment because it helps the bs algorithm i love ur work
Another great video from the underrated GOAT!
I needed to hear this. Ive been ignoring a friends recommendations even though him and I tend to avoid mainstream games as much as possible. Maybe i should put my own preconceived notions of different games and fear of the unknown aside, and get back to enjoying life.
You're 100% correct. Gaming is as good as ever. If they don't realize there's great games, they've got something going on.
The worst part of the greed is that these billion dollar companies pocket that money for CEO Yachts instead of recycling it into employment for big projects. All these profits aren't being used to make the art better.
Very well spoken, elaborative and informative video. Thank you very much, CJ
10:21 just a few weeks ago when I was playing Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince and, as opposed to the medieval grasslands that you come to expect from Dragon Quest games, I was dropped into a fucking candy land. I'm talking soda rivers and cake hills. Shit was awesome
Even before that, few months ago, I was playing the fan translated "Chibi-Robo: Clean Sweep" and there is just an actual fucking casino in the game with strippers and bunny suits, which that only answered to me why they never officially localized that game
For me it was midnight flight express. Bro the game made me feel like a badass knocking heads and cleaning up the city one fist at a time
amazing video you are one of the greatest youtuber i seen lately. The way you articulate is very unique i never keep up the good one.
Someone commented once games are becoming more iterative is one of the problem which u hit the nail on the hit. Being iterative isn't bad and can be done well, but seeing original games like outer wilds or obra dinn are becoming rarer which make sense as gaming is no longer at its infancy like you said due to advancing techology.
Hey, alot isn't a word. It's a lot.
This was genuinely phenomenal
What is your solution? You pointed out a problem, and the only solution I saw was (well simplifying it a bit) to stick together as a community and support games you like (if I'm not mistaken). Idk about most people, but I kind of already do that. I don't really buy triple A games outside of the really good ones like the God of wars of the gaming industry or games made by Japanese developers. Also, I have a huge library of indie games. In terms of games, I think capitalism has proven that if a game drops and its bad, those studios who made those games go under like Luminous Productions and Volition, both who made triple A games. I would push for reforming the system instead of trying something entirely new that might not even work, because you really didn't give a alternative to capitalism.
This comment is interesting because of the dissonance required to make it.
I’m gonna start by saying I’m not discounting a solution or a need for one but to act like it’s a “bad” or “disingenuous” thing to engage with a topic people are uncomfortable with having is part of the problem.
Am I really going to hold it against a video explaining the atrocities of Nestle just because it didn’t propose a solution? That doesn’t make sense, the conversation is still important and needs to be had.
And Capitalism has proven the exact opposite of the point you’re trying to make. Studios don’t automatically “go under” because they make a bad game.
Big studios are constantly making bad games devoid of innovation (Madden COD etc.) and they can do it and not worry about it because they have the “Capital” to not care.
Money is at the top and innovation is maybe 3rd. Indie developers with passion will never make as much money as a big studio with money, and that studio isn’t doing much to innovate because it doesn’t have to.
I mean a simple solution would be to just do the opposite of all the ticks listed against capitalism. Busting corporations and letting Unions form.. Wealth distribution etc.. but when you start talking about that you have to start talking about Socialism and people aren’t ready for the positive impact that taming capitalism with socialism would have. It can still exist under a socialist system of government, the main change is stopping capital from falling into the hands of the few.
@@LintSplinter 1) I don't understand why you are pretending I said he needed to give a 5-year plan on how to reform the game industry as a whole. All I said was that since he didn't give an alternative, I would rather reform the system we already have instead of uprooting the entire system.
2) Cod and Madden are the way they are because people still buy those games even though fundamentally they aren't good games. If people stop buying the new release of Madden or cod, those franchises would die out like Saints Row after the latest installment. You keep implying that capitalism is the sole fault of why those games are they way they are, but that isn't true. The consumers enable those games and those practices, so those games continue to be made because they make a profit.
3) No, capitalism hasn't proven the exact opposite. You just pick two of the biggest, long-running franchises in the gaming industry. It's funny how you didn't talk about suicide squad, that recently released and underperformed and is struggling to make sales. Or are you gonna talk about Square Enix $63 million lost on the Marvel Avengers game that died last year (which are some pretty big IPs)? There is quite literally a punishment for bad games being released. The company loses money, which could lead to the death of the franchise or the studio closing down, like Luminous Productions after Forspoken. Cod, Madden, and FIFA are all long-running franchises that constantly make profits. Do you wanna know another long-running franchise that didn't make profits? Battlefield 2042 that game underperformed and hasn't made a sequel since, unlike that others.
4) it's not "big studios" it's like a handful of studios. The games you listed are either from EA or Activision. There are a ton of other studios that don't make bad games on the level of those studios.
5) You didn't even read what I said. My point wasn't one bad game drops and poof the studio disappears. My point was that there is a punishment for bad games being dropped, and not all gaming studios get away with releasing bad products. Also, why are you bringing up socialism when no one brought that up? Why is your solution to radically change the industry as a whole, when most economies already do a mix of both. Your suggestion of switching over to a socialist system makes no sense. When, by definition of socialism, rejects capitalism.
It's pretty common sense lmao the means if production and ownership of said production should belong to the workers who actually produce said products and not an establishment who owns workers
@@ArchWizardCj What do you say to the owner of those products that built the infrastructure of that company? Someone has to invest time and money into an idea and all the ups and downs that come out of that investment. Also, games aren't a good comparison for this because quite literally anyone can make a game. Indie devs do it all the time, and some teams have less than a handful of people, sometimes even one person making a game. There is no monopoly on the production of games. This is a vast array of knowledge and tools at anyone's disposal when it comes to making games. Lethal company is a good recent example of a game that was created by one person who has all the authority over it.
@@Dolshadow you didnt even ask the correct question why do you want me to engage with this lol
The man is back with the amazing videos making me rethink my life
10:20 i play a lot of VR games and since that industry does the have many AAA developers a lot of whats going on in the VR space is really good
Missed you very much cj glad to get a easter present from ya hope you yourself have a great easter and looking forward to the next video much love brother
i’ll be honest, this video is just making me want to play visual novels because they’re well… novels. Hotel Dusk room 215 is probably my favorite game ever and it always puts a smile on my face to think about. never beat it myself, just watched a no comentary playthrough and loved it all
you know its a good day when cj post
Your voice brings me back. I used to watch your For Honor videos.
Nice topic, I personally think sometimes when people put unrealistic expectations on some of these games need to chill. They set themselves up for a game that was never gonna come out .
When is the last time a game truly surprised me? Helldivers 2, for sure. I thought I was gonna return it when I was buying it, but as soon as I was in I knew I was gonna play it for a long time lol
10:19 I played Dragons dogma for the first time November last year, the whole cutscene after Grigori had me shook. One of my favourite games after that
I'm absolute dumb ass and watching your videos not only gives stuff to think about but also helps me learn new word hope your doing well
The “AAA” of yesteryear were done with a team of a handful of people up to maybe 50. The sense of camaraderie was still possible. As the industry and game projects grew, team sizes grew and that fun collaborative setting of friends deteriorated, and companies got more corporate. Partly because they needed others to manage the budgets, who don’t understand what makes games good, and makes everything more homogenous with focus groups. And then on top of that they let ideologues seep through who further controlled what you “can’t” do to make them even more bland, and was pushed to go that way by following ESG guidelines because it nets funds to develop these projects. Because the budgets have gotten overblown. Until more of these games fail big time, the rot from within will persist until it’s removed.
You're lost, this isn't the type of channels that push the ESG conspiracy theories
ESG guidelines have nothing to do with video games, there isn't any example of an "ESG guideline" that talk about video games, they focus on diversity among the employees not inside the virtual world created by that company
There are tons of good AAA games coming out every year
I mostly play factory games, city builders and alternative strategy games (anything more elaborate than RTS) and I would say we're in a golden age with respect to my preferences.
One of the huge problems that devs are having to deal with is they can no longer just go bigger + better, which was a reliable template for the past 15 years. If you had no other ideas, you could just put more stuff in. As the video notes, the technical side of innovation has flattened out. The Far Cry series is a great example of this. The progression from 2 -> 3 -> 4 was stunning, 5 was a plateau, and 6 was a nosedive. There was no more stuff to put in, and the attempts to tweak prior mechanics was confusing and not compelling. Now you can put as much of anything you want into a game (see Baldur's Gate 3). We have reached the outer limits of "big for the sake of being big" (see Starfield), and yet something like No Man's Sky, which is arguably similar in scope, continues to enthrall. This is a sticky problem.
And it's definitely crept into other art forms - you can see it in films; music is a little less complicated and more depressing (while it remains fresh and innovative, it's largely been abandoned by capitalism, in the sense that that particular industry has entered into a death spiral with a half-hearted push every couple years to force people to pay $20 for albums again). Oppenheimer bored the damned shit out of me.
You had me until that capitalism rant, oof. Granted, what you said about it _as it pertains to the current video game industry_ (and other artistic industries, for that matter) I generally agree with, just not so much the fundamental ideas you have of it as an economic system.
Awesome vid, and great picks for the music
Damn. This video makes me think a bit. Been struggling to get the motivation to make my own music despite taking school for it and I'm always thinking "Damn I'm never gonna make money off of this" or "Damn I need to make money so I can support this". I've never openly been a "Capitalism sucks" kinda guy but extrinsic monetary motivation has been a bitch lately.
Great vid CJ. Done good.
Every video you drop like disillusions me more and more keep up the great shit
Real, if I'm tired of the AAA industry, I find that indie games are always great as they're usually made by someone who loves what they do, has a vision that's only theirs and is usually only asking for 5 bucks. The indie and maybe even AA scene seems more in tune with what most of us want, just a fun game.
Pretty myopic conclusion methinks. Capitalism is too easy of a scapegoat for a problem that has so many moving parts to it.
You've done well to point out the atomization of audiences, and I'd say a good chunk of the problem lies there. Gaming exploded around the era of Overwatch and e-sports, and as such you got his new, huge chunk of the overall gaming demographic that has had no real experience with the history of the medium at all and no real intention in doing so. How do you expect this type of audience to be receptive to the more artistic side of things when they see games as a toy to keep themselves entertained with? You can blame capitalism for this all you want, but it's the consumer that decides if a product fails or succeeds. It's this new audience that has swayed the direction of a good chunk of the industry, and in turn the industry has tried to keep them there. It's this fucked up symbiotic trap for both. I am of course not saying that gamers **want** to be fed slop, but so many have such a big lack of curiosity, and it's only recently that I've seen nu-gamers really stop and think: "Wait a minute, you're telling me there's more to this medium?"
All of this has happened with cinema and music already, it just happened in a much less overt way because the barrier for entry for those was way lower and audiences were there pretty much since day one. The radio and the movie theater were ubiquitous since very early in their inception. A computer or a gaming console + a 60$ game were not.
In the early days of each medium you saw innovation because creation was a super gated and exlcusive club. Of course most of everything was going to be novel and unique, shit was NEW. Then you also saw the same type of exploitation, stagnation and denigration happen to these mediums time and time again. But you already said it yourself, the cycle keeps getting broken again and again by the people who are passionate, and capital was the last thing that defined their success.
If you're looking at an obvious cynical corporate product and you use it to decry it as the death of art or use it as to demnostrate how society is rotten or whatever, then you really only have yourself to blame, because some of the best art, films, music and videogames ARE coming out this very moment. It's not just the big releases from last year, they've always been there. There's almost too much, it's staggering. You just have to make the effort to look around now instead of it being handed to you on a silver platter.
capitalism is literally the reason behind why this is happening
I mean, capitalism is shitty but communism and socialism is shittier.
At least I actually have a chance to make it in a capitalist society.
I disagree that capitalism is the cause. Gaming has always existed within capitalism for the entire duration of its existence. The only game that I know of that came out of communism was Tetris.
Why do yall so confidently speak on things you clearly have no investment in beyond literal speculation
@@ArchWizardCj I grew up in a former communist country, and I have seen how terrible it was. You are the one who is speculating, not me.
Yeah communism and socialism are just shared misery for everyone involved and usually lead to dictatorships
@@ArchWizardCjNot a great response...
Proving my point in spades lmaoooo @@rigorm136
Banger as always CJ. Still don't understand how your channel hasn't popped off into the millions. Much love
Damnnn you cooked with this vid bro, i hope youre doing better irl!!
One of the best back at it💯
thank you bros
1 in every game that releases each year i play. Its simply not the same.