G-pinions

I know it's been done before, but the language Penny Arcade uses to describe games they are not interested in, seems to mirror what Microsoft representatives say a little too closely for my comfort. Microsoft says, "We've already done a great job with the core audience on Xbox and Xbox 360, but we need to go beyond that core audience and develop titles that appeal to a different type of customer." According to them, hardcore gamers only play the types of games the XBox is known for - mainly shooters and racers. Penny Arcade says, "It's (Viva Pinata) not really for us, of course ." What the heck are these two people talking about? Since when do hardcore gamers limit themselves to only a couple genres? PA made their comment in reference to Viva Pinata - which will obviously be marketed towards a different demographic than Halo - but does that mean it isn't for hardcore gamers? Should I be ashamed that I think it looks awesome? Companies are terrified of making new types of games because the media perpetuates this idea that "hardcore" gamers - real video game fans - only play a less than diverse array of titles. This is both extremely ignorant and damaging.

Also, if one more person complains that Rare should be working on a sequel to Banjo-Kazooie or Killer Instincts instead of Viva Pinata, I am going to make a tiny voodoo doll of Dan and dip his fingers in chocolate sauce during inopportune times. The industry does not, under any circumstances, need more sequels!