Square Enix – Downfall
Gaming often seems like a conservative medium in some respects, with the spotlight constantly shining on a few key big name developers who seem to shift millions regardless of what they do. It’s sometimes refreshing then when a developer sees their mistakes punished. With the mixed reception of Final Fantasy 13 and the unanimous panning that the disastrous Final Fantasy 14 saw, Square Enix are living proof that these AAA developers can indeed do wrong. That said, I think it’s endearing that we have an industry where, despite their mistakes, everyone is generally still excited to see what Square Enix will come out with next. I’m not saying I relish developers falling from lofty heights, but it’s nice to know that the majority of the gaming community are discerning consumers.
Infinity Ward/Treyarch – Commercial success
If you ask someone who doesn’t often play games to name a game series, the likelihood is they’ll say Call of Duty. Whether it is the Treyarch or Infinity Ward developed titles, they have all been colossal successes, raking in more cash than any other media form. In this way, the series has pushed the boundaries of gaming’s presence in popular culture. More people now are aware of gaming culture and practices than ever, and this is largely due to the mammoth success of the Call of Duty series.
Nintendo – Accessibility and acceptability
I have my issues with the Wii and DS, but they have sure as hell gone a long way toward debunking the frustrating myth that all gamers are anti-social douche bags who live in their parents’ basement. For some reason the myriad demographics who used to hate on gaming so regularly are willing to get involved the moment they have the opportunity to wiggle their arms and legs around as a control method. I have a lot of problems with the games spawned by these motion control opportunities, but it has done a lot of good in making gaming a more acceptable hobby.
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