@@AS-rl5vr I would cross fjords and snow peaked moutains as i hope to god that timey rain doesn't hit me just to deliver some dudes newegg pc components
This is the first game in a very long time where when someone said, "Go visit the Apothecary," I recognized it by the landmarks I needed to pass in order to get there rather than a map marker.
I freaking LOVE 'Eastshade'. So damn much. I've only played it once so far, and I don't know why more people aren't raving about it. I'd love to show it off to my mother. I'm so glad you've highlighted this amazing game. I just wish there were more like it.
I love how you’re trying new video styles. You always hit the nail on the head and the new additions always add to the video rather than seeming superfluous or extra. This video was a really nice watch for me, because other than your wonderful prose and editing, I enjoyed that you talked about non-combat games. I mostly don’t play games because I don’t like combat, so seeing this video made me a lot more hopeful and excited to maybe boot up the computer and try again.
I think I remember hearing that Swery originally wanted Deadly Premonition to be combat free, but the publishers forced him to put RE4 style shooting in it. That game would have been so much better if it was just all about exploring the town, talking to the weird characters and trying to solve the mystery. Also, if Silent Hill: Shattered Memories would have been a new IP that just used Silent Hill as inspiration and took all the dumb chase sequences out, I would have so much more respect for it.
Man, I've noticed this for the longest time but could not for the life of me find the perfect words to describe it but you just did it. That's exactly what it sounds like, thank you!
Eastshade is probably my favorite video game. The ludo narrative coherence is so pleasant. The landscape of Eastshade is beautiful and the people are nice. That's why you play the game and that's HOW you play the game. Loved this video. Totally agree with you.
Though not related to the theme of your video, i just wanted to say Thank You Ragnar Rox for the content you provide ! Not many channels i am subbed to warrant such a quick click upon an upload, very few have that effect on me, and these are channels that i've been subbed to for 5-8 years needless to say lol. Regardless, you never fail in delivering quality work upon each upload, and i can't begin to imagine the process in which the scripting, research and time put into it - the length it takes to put it all together, so all the more your work is appreciated ! Keep up the amazing work !
His videos are the perfect example of Quality over Quantity, it's like a Steak you don't get it very often (unless you're rich and can afford it) but on the rare occasion you do, it's always amazing, and always looked forward to enjoying again.
I've been thinking for a while that it could be interesting to have a game where you play as a journalist, traveling around looking for stories to submit to your editor. Eventually you could end up coming upon a big exposé regarding one of the paper's advertisers, meaning that you have to negotiate a line between the concerns your boss has over maintaining his business, ensuring that your investigations are not revealed before you have compelling evidence to back up your statements, and covering smaller stories so that you have an income to support yourself.
Well it can be set where the journalist is investigating something mundane but it lead to a huge corruption in the govt and the game is to do stealth to take position to take condemning pictures and videos of corrupt govt workers.
This sounds like a great idea, and you should totally hang on to it. You should think about how the gameplay aspect of this will work though. Point and click adventure sort? Visual novel? I feel like this idea would work well as a very condensed and small open world, where you can really get to know every character in the city.
Well my initial thought was that you could have an RPG system where the player character could only buff and debuff other characters in the party, so the question of grinding wouldn't be a problem as each segment could be balanced around a particular party. However you could adapt that premise so that the 'battles' take the form of interviews with persons of interest, with different actions getting different answers and possibly integrating some abstractive defense mechanics a la Undertale to represent staying on their good side. Leading up to the interview you could have such 'discussions' with people who work for them in order to gain insight for your interview. You would then be able to enter quotations into the article you submit regarding the events and people you are covering and how you represent the event could affect how various factions treat you. Just because you know something embarrassing about someone doesn't mean you should submit it and some people will be more comfortable with you if you have proven to be able to keep a secret. Other than that I'd think that some mechanics around avoiding detection and taking photographs and collecting copies of documents would be warranted. Essentially it would be a case of the theming dressing up proven game mechanics but also using that premise as a springboard to introduce additional strategic options beyond what would normally be expected.
You really don't realize just how ubiquitous combat is in games until it isn't an option, which is exactly why Eastshade struck like a bolt out of the blue for me too. Thank you for this thoughtful and nuanced look at the game -- from pineapples to pacifism, I love it!
This is the most beautiful game I've ever seen. I want it, but more than wanting it I don't want it to just sit in my library. I want to have proper time to play it.
That's my gripe with Fantasy Life. An JRPG where you can take unconventional jobs like Chef or Tailor, but you still have to grind your ingredients/materials fighting enemies.
I get what you mean, I enjoy the game but you do need to fight at certain points in the game to progress the story (If I remember correctly). Though at least with the human enemies I've encountered so far you aren't killing anyone, but rather besting them in a fight. Some even show up later in town as more neutral.
(Comment written at 8:10) I think the best example for me about a game that should have never had typical combat is L.A. Noire. You're just an investigator yet you pretty much have more headcounts than some army soldiers in that game. It's like creators think player attention won't be retain the moment no combat is placed, so it will always be there despite how much narrative dissonance it could create. I'd even argue that Red Dead Redemption has way too much unavoidable combat. It seems only the Indie scene try to really explore such gameplay. In the end, I have no problem with combat; I have a problem with its oversaturation and its "default" attribution to games. EDIT 1: Welp I'm adding Eastshade in my wishlist. EDIT 2: Here's another example. While Undertale has combat in it, the way they weaved the narrative with it and how you can "avoid killing" is also another proof that this subversion of combat can be done in a creative and engaging way, other than just "no combat". Just look at how that series blew up, and how many people would talk more about the banters and non-combat scenes in Undertale rather than its combat (and when it's about the combat, it often refers to the unique system and character moments in it, along with the music, rather than the combat gameplay). When combat is truly inevitable in Undertale, it's used in moments that have huge impact (like a certain scene when your Mercy button is "destroyed").
I hate it SO much when people come up with examples like “You could be a tailor who plants and gathers materials for clothing” or “you could be a traveling doctor” because GOD DAMN IT DO I WANT TO PLAY THAT GAME and I know no one will ever make it (or at least a AAA studio won’t ever make it).
As a person who sucks at combat and hates open world games because of that emphasis, Eastshade was my long awaited toe dip into that genre. I finished the game less than an hour before finding this video and it hits just what I love about the game. It's well balanced for people at any level of skill.
A few years ago I played an indiegame called Miasmata, where you can map an island using compass triangulation. However, as you go along you get stalked and attacked more and more frequently by an unseen monster. I finished the game, but the monster was more a distraction and I just liked wandering around this tropical island looking at the scenery and reading notes.
I feel this is a trend that is gaining more traction on the simulation side too: For as much as some people make fun games like Euro Truck Simulator have been successful and include no combat or even aggressive mechanics (Aggressive driving unceremoniously disables your truck and fails objectives punishes you and you basically gain nothing of substance) There's also a resurgence of City Building simulators like Cities Skylines that also have no central conflict that revolves around violence at all: your only challenge is to manage resources, peacefully. This two games even remove much, if not all of the other widespread prevailing characteristic of most games: Competitiveness.
thank you ♥ ! this is what i needed , plus , goddammit...your narration style and your overall sense of delivery (information and eloquence ) is just wonderful ! so again , thank you for the video , and of course , the recommendation !
I love non-violent games bc they are essentially more interesting. I love exploring and looking at things, and now there's a game that centers on that and that contains art? I'm so happy.
Cyberpunk gave me this peaceful feeling bc of how cool the environment was. Any place i was going to within 500m i would just walk. But it feels grimeu and destopian at the same time as jaw dropping so its good to know you arn't defenseless.
I deeply appreciate your perspectives and the effort you put into your videos Ragnarox. Your calm and collected, intelligent and tasteful manner in which you make videos is a breath of fresh air. You’re quickly becoming one of my favorites on this platform, please keep it up!
I found this game through your video and I completely agree - it's amazing. I have generalized anxiety and this is exactly what I need. It's so beautiful.
Another thing important about Eastshade is that not only does it not need combat, it also doesn't need competition in general. Eastshade's challenge, if you want to call it that, is about balancing your resources with what you want to do, navigating the world and finding all the hidden places, and deciding how to best handle a situation or approach a quest. You can't really fail at it but at the same time, you can be *good* at it with practice and/or attention. And I find that incredibly relaxing.
Good things 1. You can get inspiration from helping, listening songs, stories, reading books or newspaper here. 2. You need to sleep regular xD 3. It pays huge respect to nature and you don't destroy anything! 4. You can make tae!!! Bad thing 1. You can't pet the cats :(
Let's not forget Subnautica. It's also a purposely non-combat focused game, which was a part that made it great. I mean, yes there are danger, but you'd rather avoid them, not combat them.
I remember playing HZD for the first time, adoring the combat, but loving exploring and wandering the city even more. I could spend hours in Meridian, just watching the beautiful graphics and the npcs go about their business. It was incredible
Wonderful video! This points to so many things I've been pondering too. The Witcher 3 turned into such a wonderful experience when I turned off the HUD and all the navigational assists. It still had the combat, but it increased the joy of exploration. So much so that playing the game made me go outside and explore the beautiful parks, historic sites, and monuments in Berlin where I live. I also love exploring the city without my phone as it heightens my observations and awareness. After a long walk in a beautiful park I then feel compelled to play a beautiful game. Thank you for introducing me to Eastshade, I will definitely be giving it a try.
*Deadly Premonition* had combat forced into it by the publisher. Great game with lots of NPC interaction in the sidequests. Also games like Elite: Dangerous / Eve Online / (Maybe Star Citizen) kinda do with you say. You can get really far without doing combat.
I was looking for someone to mention the destruction of Deadly Premonition. I'm wiling to bet if Swery's team didn't have to waste precious time writing in and crafting a full combat system, the glaring issues with visuals and the map would have likely gotten more attention. Rule of Rose is another example of forced combat completely decimating a game that would otherwise be incredible. It's just a shame that games that would otherwise be better without combat are forced to include it in an attempt to appeal to one specific type of gamer.
Three things; 1) This video was excellent. Great job. 2) Eastshade looks great and I'll definitely play it if I can. 3) Your voice and delivery are so chilled out, without lacking emotion or enthusiasm. Perfect for this video.
personally I've always loved merchant simulator games, where all you do is try to become a trade giant in a variety of settings, but I always struggled to get into something like port royal, because I found the combat so jarring. I preferred the challenge of balancing maintenance costs and finding where to best sell certain produce, over the clunky combat.
I always wanted a peaceful, social based, scifi game; like mass effect without the shooting. Just getting to study alien species as a xenobiologist or alien cultures as a xenoanthropologist, or some combination of such, would be fun as hell. Especially if it meant walking through some really cool scifi settings, like the citadel or halo rings.
That video was amazing Ragnar. You really outmatched yourself. The cut-ins of you talking in your living room and outside really fit in well and i look forward to more uploads in this style. Keep doing your thing bud!
I always dreamed up a different beast of a game, though in a similar vein. Being someone very interested in and practicing historical combat I always liked it being the focus of games I played, typically fantasy RPG's. What always bothered me though, was that I could never find a game with combat, that would treat killing seriously. I'd love an open world game where violence is indeed an option, but it is a last resort, as in reality. Back in the middle ages even proffessional duelists would've had only several fights in their lives. Vastly uncomparable to the mounds of nameless enemies you mince through in most games. I'd love a world where every NPC you meet is an actual character, with backstories, relations, aspirations and motivations, an actual part of the world. Where killing someone would have real consequences for the story you're telling with your actions. No more heaps of nameless bandits. If you knew that each and every one of those brigands ended up where they are for a variety of reasons I doubt the player would be so carefree in taking lives. If we add simulation elements, killing animals could also tip the delicate balance of game's ecosystem. Combat system in such a game should also have more realistic escalation of aggression. Ways to defuse the situation, scare away the opponent or incapacitate them in a way that doesn't necessarily end their life, and their part in the story. Combat should also be very risky and unforgiving, and every wound should have a lasting, sometimes even permanent consequence to the player. Like in reality, it would be another incentive to stay away from violence. Some people might say that discouraging combat in a game with a combat system woukd be counter productive, but I firmly believe that if fights to the death were very rare, but tense and with high stakes it would make them all the memorable. Unlike killing bandit #278 and moving on, instantly forgetting it.
Hey, I usually make a point of not commenting on UA-cam, but since I enjoy this channel and since I think I can say smth. that is actually helpful, I want to make an execption. I have spent the better part of the last two years with the whole "I'm gonna be an indie developer"-start-up-educational-VR-games thing. So I have learned a couple of harsh lessons about game development, so much that I will rather spent my time writing PnP games. Here is the thing, like the number one thing about game dev: Everything is insanely expensive. In many cases, the major part of costs is just salaries, but games are super complicated and you need a lot of work and every detail will cost you a small fortune. And you still will have to change everything at some point, literally destroying every ounce of work that you have poured into your work of dreams. And all we did were short VR experiences/minigames. Imagine me being dramatic about the costs of open-world titles ôo So the only thing that big companies, that are able to pull off open worlds, can do, is to think about content in terms of scales. You do need some kind of challenge or at least some kind of moderation for your experience. So for a open world game, you need a lot of it. And this is the point, where fighting mechanics usually start pulling their weight. If you design a couple of enemies, you can literally just play around with parameters and create a lot of challenges. Like, "in this area, all enemies are immune to your main weapon" and poof, you have content. I'll try to clarify with another example. Let's take RagnarRox example of being an ancient embalmer for a main character. Now think about, how many different ways to embalm people a game dev would have to come up with to fill a open-world game. Ok, that's weird, so there will probably some crafting, you'll need your materials. So you'll have to find them. So what do you to stop gathering materials from being trivial, you'll have to fight monsters for them. Bang. If I look at this (very meager) pitch, fighting and gathering sounds like the exciting part. So, RagnarRox said, that fighting in games feels like an ideology, and my first reaction was:"Nay!" But thinking about it, I will agree, trying to clear up the following. The ideology behind fighting in games is:"We like money!" and I think I shall clarify no futher. --- So, sry about this novel. That is what game dev does to you, so be careful, people. Keep up the good work
Excellent video and nice editing. *_The reason I believe combat is so prevalent in videogames is because it is one of the rawest, most universal manifestations of conflict._* And conflict is at the core of most games, even lighthearted ones. Person A wants something and must defeat Person B to get it. Something as simple as that already carries drama and tension from its conception, which will in turn maintain the player engaged for a while. *_For me, the bigger problem is how conflict has been almost exclusively associated with fighting, when in reality it could arise from a plethora of different situations._* Just from the top of my head, I image a game about rescuing people from a devastating natural disaster could be fascinating.
Most games I play aren't "Person A wants something and must defeat Person B to get it". They're more like "Person A wants something and Person B must defeat them to prevent it".
I am so glad of the first half of the video, it is so noticeable how these combat conventions is damaging to the experience of some games. Video games can be much more than a simple challenge, it can be an experience or an escape of the real world, by removing violence, something that is ever so present in the real world, you can make a surreal experience of which you can be able to experience things you can't in the real world. Discover beauty and thought provoking sceneries, make friends and build upon concepts that are otherwise not possible here. An spiritual experience above all else, can be truly life changing. As always, nice work Ragnar
I am so glad somebody with an audience and the time and skill to put together this video did so. I think this is important and I wish more people who make games considered this!
I've revisited this video so many times since its release. It's served as a consistent source of inspiration over the years, and I'm so happy it exists. Thanks for this!
so well said and definitely agree. Eastshade is an amazing game, and it didn't suprise me that it didn't get much attention. Sadly, open world games are almost all the time combat. The reason why I hate this is because it's already something in the real world today, and games like eastshade represent peace and non-aggresive tendencies which I love. Don't get me wrong I love combat open world games but the amount of games that are like this is really annoying. Really hope in the future more games are like this and the popularity of them grow.
Great video, most gamers wouldn’t look at this style game because of normal conventions like you stated, but videos like this get players who aren’t normally into a certain genre to try something new, i for one will be checking this game out for myself thank you
That pineapple pizza bit was a really good analogy! Great video overall. I really wish there were more games that focused on living in a world over challenging combat and puzzles and whatnot.
Because of you I found out Eastshade was finally out! Thank you for your interesting video! It looks like the game will live up to what I was hopeing for
You might want to check out the game Open Sewer; a first person game where you essentially become a slumlord in this run down quarantined section of a city. And there's no combat whatsoever. It's made by the same people who created INFRA, which both are based in the same story setting. In INFRA you play as a structural engineer who takes pictures of unsafe/damaged structures, discovers urban corruption, and solves puzzles which helps to fix the city. Both of these games seem like they would be up your ally.
Really great video. I was thinking the same while playing Watchdogs 2. In that game you can complete most missions by just hacking away with my drone and rc in the comfort of my car, which was more thrilling and exciting than any gun fight..
My favorite part about Persona has always been the social aspects, so much so that I get pretty down any time I have to go into a labyrinth or palace or whatever. I've said before that I'd love a Persona game built from the ground up without any combat elements, and just the everyday life elements. The combat isn't bad, but it's also not all that great, either.
I liked seeing you in the video. Reminded me of documentaries like those of David Attenborough where he would narrate over prerecorded footage of the subject matter and would later cut back to him. Certainly enjoy the format and it gives it a more personal touch then just the omniscient bodiless voice. Keep up the great work, always worth the wait
Another thing Gothic did well was present a dark world but also give many peaceful quest resolution possibilities. Other grimdark fantasy games are usually very violent
I have the exact same feeling. When I played Quake with a friend back then, we quickly got bored and instead of shooting each other over and over again, we instead downloaded user-made maps and explored those together. One time we found a city like map with buildings you can enter and sat on a couch infront of a TV sjowing a 3 frames Ren&Stimpy animation.
I honestly never heard any of those complaints about the guided tour in ACOrigins, especially since there already was ACOrigins the complaints I did hear were the deliberate revisionism on what was supposed to be entirely informative of history
@@szellemsam even though it's a forced action in which the player had no way of changing, and at that point the only way to not partake in such actions is to just not play which is a weak nu-argument to me. It's one of the reasons as to why I don't really see spec ops the line as that great of a game.
@@KydinoI agree, in my opinion only Undertale did this kind of thing right. The game openly discourages killing, but if you actualy kill some npc it has weight, afterall player had other options .
Doesn't excuse terrible or uninspired combat though. Kind of like the devs of Spec Ops: The Line tried to justify the gameplay with "intentionally average" design. Then again, I did feel bad of killing certain people in SO: TL than any Yoko Taro game.
@@tomstonemale Original Nier had inspired combat with interesting magic attacks, also shmup elements. It wasnt above averege, but it started to shine with Automata (even tho still not perfect). Also system with chips taking place is nice. And no, devs of Spec Ops: The Line didnt try to justify gameplay by "it must be averege for idea" or something, its a wide spread misconception.
I've come across this channel reviewing one of my favorite games, as well as pointing out some very interesting points about game design and genre, plus I just liked the video in general. You sir get a thumbs up, good job :)
The fact that they made an organically navigable world that doesn't require those tedious waypoint's has me quite excited as well as impressed. I know requires a lot of resources but it's something that I value very highly in games. It's also an absolutely achingly beautiful game. This was a topic I hadn't really thought about in a while and you did a fabulous job of flushing out all the little corners of thought using this as a powerful example of what can be accomplished. Here's hoping this game does well and we see more like it in the future.
I think that's something I really liked about The Witness. Free range exploration where all I have to do is look about and solve puzzles at my own pace. Eastshade sounds right up my alley.
Great video as always Ragnar! You're legitimately one of the very few UA-camrs I get excited about when new video's drop. You always have a fresh/different take on video games and life that I enjoy seeing from your perspective.
Well I do hope death stranding is just a challenging delivery service game
Imagine you're a UPS guy and having to avoid lovecraftian horrors to deliver someone's socks overnight. I'd actually play that.
@@AS-rl5vr I would cross fjords and snow peaked moutains as i hope to god that timey rain doesn't hit me just to deliver some dudes newegg pc components
Turns out Death Stranding is just a post-apocalyptic reimagining of Kiki’s Delivery Service
In a way... you're completely right hahah
It was
This is the first game in a very long time where when someone said, "Go visit the Apothecary," I recognized it by the landmarks I needed to pass in order to get there rather than a map marker.
I freaking LOVE 'Eastshade'. So damn much. I've only played it once so far, and I don't know why more people aren't raving about it. I'd love to show it off to my mother. I'm so glad you've highlighted this amazing game. I just wish there were more like it.
I love how you’re trying new video styles. You always hit the nail on the head and the new additions always add to the video rather than seeming superfluous or extra.
This video was a really nice watch for me, because other than your wonderful prose and editing, I enjoyed that you talked about non-combat games. I mostly don’t play games because I don’t like combat, so seeing this video made me a lot more hopeful and excited to maybe boot up the computer and try again.
Hair wise how does my favorite video game essay analyst look so fucking cool I expected some dork
The joke's on you. He's still a dork.
@@Hairthulhu a cool looking dork
he looks like a member of a rock band.
discount curt cobain
My brother pulling off the rock star geek. Can't even hate.
I think I remember hearing that Swery originally wanted Deadly Premonition to be combat free, but the publishers forced him to put RE4 style shooting in it. That game would have been so much better if it was just all about exploring the town, talking to the weird characters and trying to solve the mystery.
Also, if Silent Hill: Shattered Memories would have been a new IP that just used Silent Hill as inspiration and took all the dumb chase sequences out, I would have so much more respect for it.
You ever notice how RagnarRox pronounces words like he's pouting sometimes?
like he's talking to a baby or a puppy
I'm still trying to descipher where he is from based on his accent. Probably Germany.
It reminds me dan carlin. He does a very simular pout.
@@noisykestrel he's from Iceland
Man, I've noticed this for the longest time but could not for the life of me find the perfect words to describe it but you just did it. That's exactly what it sounds like, thank you!
Eastshade is probably my favorite video game. The ludo narrative coherence is so pleasant. The landscape of Eastshade is beautiful and the people are nice. That's why you play the game and that's HOW you play the game.
Loved this video. Totally agree with you.
Though not related to the theme of your video, i just wanted to say Thank You Ragnar Rox for the content you provide ! Not many channels i am subbed to warrant such a quick click upon an upload, very few have that effect on me, and these are channels that i've been subbed to for 5-8 years needless to say lol.
Regardless, you never fail in delivering quality work upon each upload, and i can't begin to imagine the process in which the scripting, research and time put into it - the length it takes to put it all together, so all the more your work is appreciated ! Keep up the amazing work !
His videos are the perfect example of Quality over Quantity, it's like a Steak you don't get it very often (unless you're rich and can afford it) but on the rare occasion you do, it's always amazing, and always looked forward to enjoying again.
Remember, family that tacos together rockos together
I've been thinking for a while that it could be interesting to have a game where you play as a journalist, traveling around looking for stories to submit to your editor.
Eventually you could end up coming upon a big exposé regarding one of the paper's advertisers, meaning that you have to negotiate a line between the concerns your boss has over maintaining his business, ensuring that your investigations are not revealed before you have compelling evidence to back up your statements, and covering smaller stories so that you have an income to support yourself.
Well it can be set where the journalist is investigating something mundane but it lead to a huge corruption in the govt and the game is to do stealth to take position to take condemning pictures and videos of corrupt govt workers.
This sounds like a great idea, and you should totally hang on to it. You should think about how the gameplay aspect of this will work though. Point and click adventure sort? Visual novel? I feel like this idea would work well as a very condensed and small open world, where you can really get to know every character in the city.
Yeah, the problem is how to build that mechanically.
Have you looked into "where the water tastes like whine"? it kinda also revolves around stories, but more the campfire kind.
Well my initial thought was that you could have an RPG system where the player character could only buff and debuff other characters in the party, so the question of grinding wouldn't be a problem as each segment could be balanced around a particular party.
However you could adapt that premise so that the 'battles' take the form of interviews with persons of interest, with different actions getting different answers and possibly integrating some abstractive defense mechanics a la Undertale to represent staying on their good side.
Leading up to the interview you could have such 'discussions' with people who work for them in order to gain insight for your interview.
You would then be able to enter quotations into the article you submit regarding the events and people you are covering and how you represent the event could affect how various factions treat you.
Just because you know something embarrassing about someone doesn't mean you should submit it and some people will be more comfortable with you if you have proven to be able to keep a secret.
Other than that I'd think that some mechanics around avoiding detection and taking photographs and collecting copies of documents would be warranted.
Essentially it would be a case of the theming dressing up proven game mechanics but also using that premise as a springboard to introduce additional strategic options beyond what would normally be expected.
Such a nice breath of fresh air this game is I'm so glad I chose to play this instead of one of my 30 action games in my backlog
This really speaks to me. I have recently begun seeing the overabundance of violence in video games to strange and a shame.
You really don't realize just how ubiquitous combat is in games until it isn't an option, which is exactly why Eastshade struck like a bolt out of the blue for me too. Thank you for this thoughtful and nuanced look at the game -- from pineapples to pacifism, I love it!
The Outer Wilds did it as well. What an amazing, beautiful game it is.
Eastshade has been on my to-play list forever and has now been bumped up on the priority list
eastshade is just an amazing game. its so relaxing
also this video is amazing. good job with the editing and everything
I Love your Videos
Your voice is really soothing and your structure feels very natural
This is the most beautiful game I've ever seen. I want it, but more than wanting it I don't want it to just sit in my library. I want to have proper time to play it.
That's my gripe with Fantasy Life. An JRPG where you can take unconventional jobs like Chef or Tailor, but you still have to grind your ingredients/materials fighting enemies.
I get what you mean, I enjoy the game but you do need to fight at certain points in the game to progress the story (If I remember correctly). Though at least with the human enemies I've encountered so far you aren't killing anyone, but rather besting them in a fight. Some even show up later in town as more neutral.
*sees ragnarox's face*
Me : I've been gayed
(Comment written at 8:10)
I think the best example for me about a game that should have never had typical combat is L.A. Noire. You're just an investigator yet you pretty much have more headcounts than some army soldiers in that game. It's like creators think player attention won't be retain the moment no combat is placed, so it will always be there despite how much narrative dissonance it could create. I'd even argue that Red Dead Redemption has way too much unavoidable combat.
It seems only the Indie scene try to really explore such gameplay. In the end, I have no problem with combat; I have a problem with its oversaturation and its "default" attribution to games.
EDIT 1: Welp I'm adding Eastshade in my wishlist.
EDIT 2: Here's another example. While Undertale has combat in it, the way they weaved the narrative with it and how you can "avoid killing" is also another proof that this subversion of combat can be done in a creative and engaging way, other than just "no combat". Just look at how that series blew up, and how many people would talk more about the banters and non-combat scenes in Undertale rather than its combat (and when it's about the combat, it often refers to the unique system and character moments in it, along with the music, rather than the combat gameplay). When combat is truly inevitable in Undertale, it's used in moments that have huge impact (like a certain scene when your Mercy button is "destroyed").
I hate it SO much when people come up with examples like “You could be a tailor who plants and gathers materials for clothing” or “you could be a traveling doctor” because GOD DAMN IT DO I WANT TO PLAY THAT GAME and I know no one will ever make it (or at least a AAA studio won’t ever make it).
As a person who sucks at combat and hates open world games because of that emphasis, Eastshade was my long awaited toe dip into that genre. I finished the game less than an hour before finding this video and it hits just what I love about the game. It's well balanced for people at any level of skill.
I’m starting to really catch up to your content now… you do really good work and I appreciate you.
Master piece of a youtube content. My hat goes down for you, Sir.
This is the first video of yours I've ever seen.
That's a subscribe.
A few years ago I played an indiegame called Miasmata, where you can map an island using compass triangulation. However, as you go along you get stalked and attacked more and more frequently by an unseen monster. I finished the game, but the monster was more a distraction and I just liked wandering around this tropical island looking at the scenery and reading notes.
I feel this is a trend that is gaining more traction on the simulation side too: For as much as some people make fun games like Euro Truck Simulator have been successful and include no combat or even aggressive mechanics (Aggressive driving unceremoniously disables your truck and fails objectives punishes you and you basically gain nothing of substance) There's also a resurgence of City Building simulators like Cities Skylines that also have no central conflict that revolves around violence at all: your only challenge is to manage resources, peacefully. This two games even remove much, if not all of the other widespread prevailing characteristic of most games: Competitiveness.
You must have been so happy when Sable came out. Also, Alba: A Wildlife Adventure and Signs of the Sojourner hit the spot for me, in different ways.
thank you ♥ !
this is what i needed , plus , goddammit...your narration style and your overall sense of delivery (information and eloquence ) is just wonderful !
so again , thank you for the video , and of course , the recommendation !
I love non-violent games bc they are essentially more interesting. I love exploring and looking at things, and now there's a game that centers on that and that contains art? I'm so happy.
The Witness is a good example of an open world with no combat.
and a great example of a shit puzzler
ShakenMike damn dude I like it
fealdorf did you beat it?
Cyberpunk gave me this peaceful feeling bc of how cool the environment was. Any place i was going to within 500m i would just walk. But it feels grimeu and destopian at the same time as jaw dropping so its good to know you arn't defenseless.
This video is a breath of fresh air.
Nothing beats the feeling than seeing a new upload
I deeply appreciate your perspectives and the effort you put into your videos Ragnarox. Your calm and collected, intelligent and tasteful manner in which you make videos is a breath of fresh air. You’re quickly becoming one of my favorites on this platform, please keep it up!
I found this game through your video and I completely agree - it's amazing. I have generalized anxiety and this is exactly what I need. It's so beautiful.
I’M NOT CRYING YOU ARE CRYING
Another thing important about Eastshade is that not only does it not need combat, it also doesn't need competition in general. Eastshade's challenge, if you want to call it that, is about balancing your resources with what you want to do, navigating the world and finding all the hidden places, and deciding how to best handle a situation or approach a quest. You can't really fail at it but at the same time, you can be *good* at it with practice and/or attention. And I find that incredibly relaxing.
Good things
1. You can get inspiration from helping, listening songs, stories, reading books or newspaper here.
2. You need to sleep regular xD
3. It pays huge respect to nature and you don't destroy anything!
4. You can make tae!!!
Bad thing
1. You can't pet the cats :(
I, for one, am all for seeing your lovely face more often in your videos.
When we find out that peace was always an option...
i'm happy we finally got a passive game like "Death Stranding".
where combat is annoying, but skippable... and very trivial if engaged.
Let's not forget Subnautica. It's also a purposely non-combat focused game, which was a part that made it great. I mean, yes there are danger, but you'd rather avoid them, not combat them.
I remember playing HZD for the first time, adoring the combat, but loving exploring and wandering the city even more. I could spend hours in Meridian, just watching the beautiful graphics and the npcs go about their business. It was incredible
Wonderful video! This points to so many things I've been pondering too. The Witcher 3 turned into such a wonderful experience when I turned off the HUD and all the navigational assists. It still had the combat, but it increased the joy of exploration. So much so that playing the game made me go outside and explore the beautiful parks, historic sites, and monuments in Berlin where I live. I also love exploring the city without my phone as it heightens my observations and awareness. After a long walk in a beautiful park I then feel compelled to play a beautiful game. Thank you for introducing me to Eastshade, I will definitely be giving it a try.
@RagnarRox I finally bought and played East Shade. Such a beautiful game and loved every moment of it. Thanks for the recommendation!
*Deadly Premonition* had combat forced into it by the publisher. Great game with lots of NPC interaction in the sidequests.
Also games like Elite: Dangerous / Eve Online / (Maybe Star Citizen) kinda do with you say. You can get really far without doing combat.
@@Vanlayale I think so it was a looooong time ago.
I was looking for someone to mention the destruction of Deadly Premonition. I'm wiling to bet if Swery's team didn't have to waste precious time writing in and crafting a full combat system, the glaring issues with visuals and the map would have likely gotten more attention. Rule of Rose is another example of forced combat completely decimating a game that would otherwise be incredible. It's just a shame that games that would otherwise be better without combat are forced to include it in an attempt to appeal to one specific type of gamer.
Three things;
1) This video was excellent. Great job.
2) Eastshade looks great and I'll definitely play it if I can.
3) Your voice and delivery are so chilled out, without lacking emotion or enthusiasm. Perfect for this video.
I noticed you used "Road Most Traveled" from the Morrowind OST. It's a lovingly beautiful song.
I love it!
@@RagnarRoxShow I do too. It is soothing to hear when your selling wares to the local merchants.
I'm glad I stumbled upon this video.
Excellent video, you're really a talented storyteller. Postal 2 is an open world game that can be completed without killing anyone I think.
personally I've always loved merchant simulator games, where all you do is try to become a trade giant in a variety of settings, but I always struggled to get into something like port royal, because I found the combat so jarring. I preferred the challenge of balancing maintenance costs and finding where to best sell certain produce, over the clunky combat.
Patrician games.
Great video. Eastshade is potentially my all time favourite game, primarily for the reason this video is based on. Such a breath of fresh air.
Thank you for the nuance and joy you bring to the internet and gaming culture as a whole. You always leave me with something wonderful to think about.
Just wanted to reach out and mention how I appreciate your hard work again, especially that you're still adding subtitles. Thank you very much.
Fantastic work, Rag! Also, you're looking really good, buddy!
I always wanted a peaceful, social based, scifi game; like mass effect without the shooting. Just getting to study alien species as a xenobiologist or alien cultures as a xenoanthropologist, or some combination of such, would be fun as hell. Especially if it meant walking through some really cool scifi settings, like the citadel or halo rings.
That video was amazing Ragnar. You really outmatched yourself. The cut-ins of you talking in your living room and outside really fit in well and i look forward to more uploads in this style. Keep doing your thing bud!
I kinda like this notion. Like, imagine living in breath of the wild’s hyrule but as a farmer or merchant.
That was literally the 4th example I had in my script, but I scratched it because I haven't played the game yet and it felt kinda hypocritical ^^
Thanks for creating this!
I always dreamed up a different beast of a game, though in a similar vein. Being someone very interested in and practicing historical combat I always liked it being the focus of games I played, typically fantasy RPG's. What always bothered me though, was that I could never find a game with combat, that would treat killing seriously. I'd love an open world game where violence is indeed an option, but it is a last resort, as in reality. Back in the middle ages even proffessional duelists would've had only several fights in their lives. Vastly uncomparable to the mounds of nameless enemies you mince through in most games. I'd love a world where every NPC you meet is an actual character, with backstories, relations, aspirations and motivations, an actual part of the world. Where killing someone would have real consequences for the story you're telling with your actions. No more heaps of nameless bandits. If you knew that each and every one of those brigands ended up where they are for a variety of reasons I doubt the player would be so carefree in taking lives. If we add simulation elements, killing animals could also tip the delicate balance of game's ecosystem. Combat system in such a game should also have more realistic escalation of aggression. Ways to defuse the situation, scare away the opponent or incapacitate them in a way that doesn't necessarily end their life, and their part in the story. Combat should also be very risky and unforgiving, and every wound should have a lasting, sometimes even permanent consequence to the player. Like in reality, it would be another incentive to stay away from violence.
Some people might say that discouraging combat in a game with a combat system woukd be counter productive, but I firmly believe that if fights to the death were very rare, but tense and with high stakes it would make them all the memorable. Unlike killing bandit #278 and moving on, instantly forgetting it.
Hey, I usually make a point of not commenting on UA-cam, but since I enjoy this channel and since I think I can say smth. that is actually helpful, I want to make an execption.
I have spent the better part of the last two years with the whole "I'm gonna be an indie developer"-start-up-educational-VR-games thing. So I have learned a couple of harsh lessons about game development, so much that I will rather spent my time writing PnP games.
Here is the thing, like the number one thing about game dev: Everything is insanely expensive. In many cases, the major part of costs is just salaries, but games are super complicated and you need a lot of work and every detail will cost you a small fortune.
And you still will have to change everything at some point, literally destroying every ounce of work that you have poured into your work of dreams. And all we did were short VR experiences/minigames. Imagine me being dramatic about the costs of open-world titles ôo
So the only thing that big companies, that are able to pull off open worlds, can do, is to think about content in terms of scales. You do need some kind of challenge or at least some kind of moderation for your experience. So for a open world game, you need a lot of it. And this is the point, where fighting mechanics usually start pulling their weight. If you design a couple of enemies, you can literally just play around with parameters and create a lot of challenges. Like, "in this area, all enemies are immune to your main weapon" and poof, you have content.
I'll try to clarify with another example. Let's take RagnarRox example of being an ancient embalmer for a main character. Now think about, how many different ways to embalm people a game dev would have to come up with to fill a open-world game. Ok, that's weird, so there will probably some crafting, you'll need your materials. So you'll have to find them. So what do you to stop gathering materials from being trivial, you'll have to fight monsters for them. Bang.
If I look at this (very meager) pitch, fighting and gathering sounds like the exciting part.
So, RagnarRox said, that fighting in games feels like an ideology, and my first reaction was:"Nay!" But thinking about it, I will agree, trying to clear up the following. The ideology behind fighting in games is:"We like money!" and I think I shall clarify no futher.
---
So, sry about this novel. That is what game dev does to you, so be careful, people. Keep up the good work
Excellent video and nice editing.
*_The reason I believe combat is so prevalent in videogames is because it is one of the rawest, most universal manifestations of conflict._* And conflict is at the core of most games, even lighthearted ones.
Person A wants something and must defeat Person B to get it. Something as simple as that already carries drama and tension from its conception, which will in turn maintain the player engaged for a while.
*_For me, the bigger problem is how conflict has been almost exclusively associated with fighting, when in reality it could arise from a plethora of different situations._*
Just from the top of my head, I image a game about rescuing people from a devastating natural disaster could be fascinating.
Most games I play aren't "Person A wants something and must defeat Person B to get it". They're more like "Person A wants something and Person B must defeat them to prevent it".
Good video as always. You make me want to play indie games and maybe i will.
Did you play dear esther?
I am so glad of the first half of the video, it is so noticeable how these combat conventions is damaging to the experience of some games. Video games can be much more than a simple challenge, it can be an experience or an escape of the real world, by removing violence, something that is ever so present in the real world, you can make a surreal experience of which you can be able to experience things you can't in the real world. Discover beauty and thought provoking sceneries, make friends and build upon concepts that are otherwise not possible here. An spiritual experience above all else, can be truly life changing. As always, nice work Ragnar
Thanks so much for making this video. Seriously, thank you.
Firewatch is a great example
I am so glad somebody with an audience and the time and skill to put together this video did so. I think this is important and I wish more people who make games considered this!
Quite ironic to see the ads for combat based games while watching this video
I've revisited this video so many times since its release. It's served as a consistent source of inspiration over the years, and I'm so happy it exists. Thanks for this!
Your videos are amazing! You really make my days way better. Thank you for what you do 🇲🇽💙
so well said and definitely agree. Eastshade is an amazing game, and it didn't suprise me that it didn't get much attention. Sadly, open world games are almost all the time combat. The reason why I hate this is because it's already something in the real world today, and games like eastshade represent peace and non-aggresive tendencies which I love. Don't get me wrong I love combat open world games but the amount of games that are like this is really annoying. Really hope in the future more games are like this and the popularity of them grow.
Great video, most gamers wouldn’t look at this style game because of normal conventions like you stated, but videos like this get players who aren’t normally into a certain genre to try something new, i for one will be checking this game out for myself thank you
Just wanted to say that this video is amazing, and easily one my favourites.
That pineapple pizza bit was a really good analogy! Great video overall. I really wish there were more games that focused on living in a world over challenging combat and puzzles and whatnot.
Because of you I found out Eastshade was finally out! Thank you for your interesting video! It looks like the game will live up to what I was hopeing for
Did it live up to your expectations?
I love your videos, and your take on what makes games great experiences! I'm glad you're still at it.
You might want to check out the game Open Sewer; a first person game where you essentially become a slumlord in this run down quarantined section of a city. And there's no combat whatsoever. It's made by the same people who created INFRA, which both are based in the same story setting. In INFRA you play as a structural engineer who takes pictures of unsafe/damaged structures, discovers urban corruption, and solves puzzles which helps to fix the city. Both of these games seem like they would be up your ally.
Really great video. I was thinking the same while playing Watchdogs 2. In that game you can complete most missions by just hacking away with my drone and rc in the comfort of my car, which was more thrilling and exciting than any gun fight..
My favorite part about Persona has always been the social aspects, so much so that I get pretty down any time I have to go into a labyrinth or palace or whatever.
I've said before that I'd love a Persona game built from the ground up without any combat elements, and just the everyday life elements. The combat isn't bad, but it's also not all that great, either.
I liked seeing you in the video. Reminded me of documentaries like those of David Attenborough where he would narrate over prerecorded footage of the subject matter and would later cut back to him.
Certainly enjoy the format and it gives it a more personal touch then just the omniscient bodiless voice.
Keep up the great work, always worth the wait
That music at the beginning, it brings back so many memories! Great choice!
Another thing Gothic did well was present a dark world but also give many peaceful quest resolution possibilities. Other grimdark fantasy games are usually very violent
I have the exact same feeling. When I played Quake with a friend back then, we quickly got bored and instead of shooting each other over and over again, we instead downloaded user-made maps and explored those together. One time we found a city like map with buildings you can enter and sat on a couch infront of a TV sjowing a 3 frames Ren&Stimpy animation.
Can we just admire that in his intro he’s literally just describing a high-tier Animal Crossing game
I honestly never heard any of those complaints about the guided tour in ACOrigins, especially since there already was ACOrigins
the complaints I did hear were the deliberate revisionism on what was supposed to be entirely informative of history
This is great and the view at the end is breathtaking.
Yoko Taro for sure shares this kind of sentiment and still makes a games about killing. He is even self aware how ironic it is
He deliberatedly makes one feel bad for killing during the entire game
@@szellemsam even though it's a forced action in which the player had no way of changing, and at that point the only way to not partake in such actions is to just not play which is a weak nu-argument to me.
It's one of the reasons as to why I don't really see spec ops the line as that great of a game.
@@KydinoI agree, in my opinion only Undertale did this kind of thing right.
The game openly discourages killing, but if you actualy kill some npc it has weight, afterall player had other options .
Doesn't excuse terrible or uninspired combat though. Kind of like the devs of Spec Ops: The Line tried to justify the gameplay with "intentionally average" design. Then again, I did feel bad of killing certain people in SO: TL than any Yoko Taro game.
@@tomstonemale Original Nier had inspired combat with interesting magic attacks, also shmup elements. It wasnt above averege, but it started to shine with Automata (even tho still not perfect). Also system with chips taking place is nice.
And no, devs of Spec Ops: The Line didnt try to justify gameplay by "it must be averege for idea" or something, its a wide spread misconception.
I've come across this channel reviewing one of my favorite games, as well as pointing out some very interesting points about game design and genre, plus I just liked the video in general. You sir get a thumbs up, good job :)
Non-violent games are always welcome...if they done in a style of games I like. It will be interesting to play
I’ve been eyeing Eastshade and now I absolutely need it. This was a great video :)
Did you enjoy the game?
Man, I am super into what you're suggesting here in the beginning of the video. I mean this is a fantastic suggestion.
holy shit i thought i was the only one who felt this way
No, you're not alone. Not by a long shot :)
This video felt like someone took my thoughts about this game outside my head and put them in an amazing video
Thank you so much
The fact that they made an organically navigable world that doesn't require those tedious waypoint's has me quite excited as well as impressed. I know requires a lot of resources but it's something that I value very highly in games. It's also an absolutely achingly beautiful game. This was a topic I hadn't really thought about in a while and you did a fabulous job of flushing out all the little corners of thought using this as a powerful example of what can be accomplished. Here's hoping this game does well and we see more like it in the future.
I think that's something I really liked about The Witness. Free range exploration where all I have to do is look about and solve puzzles at my own pace. Eastshade sounds right up my alley.
Great video as always Ragnar! You're legitimately one of the very few UA-camrs I get excited about when new video's drop. You always have a fresh/different take on video games and life that I enjoy seeing from your perspective.
Just wanted to say that i like the way you did this video Ragnar :) keep up the amazing work
Very cool putting yourself in front of camera and expanding what can be done with the video essay!