I'm starting to think that there's something about controversial game releases that fascinates me a little. I often remember the titles that get a bad reception and then somehow manage to keep existing in the world, even spawning sequels and spinoffs despite their lack of success. I suppose one way to ensure your game will sell no matter how good or bad it is, would be to use one of the biggest intellectual properties in the world. Surely nothing can go wrong when you're in a galaxy far, far away.
Taste is a wonderful thing that separates us all and shows off the kind of diversity that makes human existence so interesting and wonderful. Either that or I'm trying to justify the fact that my own taste often differs from many others' that I come into contact with. Whether it's books, movies, music, or video games, I seem to always find the thing that everyone hated, and enjoy the hell out of it.
Every now and then a game is released to mediocre reviews and practically non-existent hype, but I enjoy it all the same. The first Mirror's Edge was criticised for its empty world and bland story, while offering unique and compelling gameplay. It was short and sweet, but I loved everything about it, so the sequel must be right up my alley… right?
Okay, it's fair to start off with a statement: the last Battlefield game I actually enjoyed was the first Bad Company. I even spent many hours playing the Bad Company multiplayer, thanks to the novelty of its destruction system that seemed incredibly "next-gen" for me at the time. I'm not about to say that Battlefield 1 is better than Bad Company, but at this point it probably gets the silver medal.
Sometimes a game comes along that defies all expectations, but not in the way that will blow your mind. Instead it's the circumstances surrounding a game's existence that brings hope and potential to an otherwise ordinary experience.
It always surprises me to hear gamers complain about sports games, as if they have no place in the gaming world. Whenever Madden of FIFA comes up at E3, the commentators groan and joke that it's time for a toilet break or some other derisive remark. It surprises me because not only are sports games some of the highest selling games in the world every year, but they still games and playing games is pretty much the MO of a gamer.
What's that saying? Fool me once… fool me twice… blah blah blah… being fooled repeatedly is equal to foolishness. I'll admit, I've been a fool with the Battlefield series, and with EA in general, but I'm consistently amazed at how one series can be so terrible and beautiful at the same time.
