Scott
09-21-2007, 04:37 PM
By "gap" I mean the gap between gamers and non gamers. Essentially, what I want to know here is if you all think that the Music genre of video games is helping to draw more traditional non gamers into the gaming world.
Personally, I think that this is a big "yes." From both personal experiences and stuff I've read it seems to me that games like Guitar Hero, DDR, and Singstar are attracting a huge following of both gamers and non gamers, especially Guitar Hero. Since the release of GH II, I've noticed so many more people talking about the series than ever before, with most of these people being individuals who wouldn't have been caught dead playing or discussing something like Final Fantasy or Soul Calibur. The series has officially reached "pop culture phenomenon" status in my book. I know tons of non gamers who love a good round of SingStar or DDR. In fact, it's become a staple at many get togethers that my friends and I go to (mixed company of gamers and non gamers). I even know several individuals who purchased PS2s for the sole purpose of being able to play GH. Heck, every electronics store I set foot in always has a crowd of people around 1 or 2 individuals playing GH, and all the other demo stations are generally unmanned .
I think the reason that thses games are so huge is because music is something everyone can relate to. Not everyone likes the idea of hopping in a mech to go to war or saving the world with your magical powers and summons. Everyone loves the idea of singing or playing their favorite songs. It appeals to the wannabe rock star in all of us. Plus, most of these titles have a pretty wide range of musical genres represented, which makes it easy for people to find something to connect with in the game.
I think that this whole concept is great. I love how gaming is becoming more and more mainstream, and how heavy hitters like GH and DDR are helping it do so. I'd just like to know your thoughts on this, and if you've noticed the same things I have.
Personally, I think that this is a big "yes." From both personal experiences and stuff I've read it seems to me that games like Guitar Hero, DDR, and Singstar are attracting a huge following of both gamers and non gamers, especially Guitar Hero. Since the release of GH II, I've noticed so many more people talking about the series than ever before, with most of these people being individuals who wouldn't have been caught dead playing or discussing something like Final Fantasy or Soul Calibur. The series has officially reached "pop culture phenomenon" status in my book. I know tons of non gamers who love a good round of SingStar or DDR. In fact, it's become a staple at many get togethers that my friends and I go to (mixed company of gamers and non gamers). I even know several individuals who purchased PS2s for the sole purpose of being able to play GH. Heck, every electronics store I set foot in always has a crowd of people around 1 or 2 individuals playing GH, and all the other demo stations are generally unmanned .
I think the reason that thses games are so huge is because music is something everyone can relate to. Not everyone likes the idea of hopping in a mech to go to war or saving the world with your magical powers and summons. Everyone loves the idea of singing or playing their favorite songs. It appeals to the wannabe rock star in all of us. Plus, most of these titles have a pretty wide range of musical genres represented, which makes it easy for people to find something to connect with in the game.
I think that this whole concept is great. I love how gaming is becoming more and more mainstream, and how heavy hitters like GH and DDR are helping it do so. I'd just like to know your thoughts on this, and if you've noticed the same things I have.