Gaming today

Now that I got that out of the way, I think is time for me to share my thoughts on certain matters concerning the current state of video games. This past E3 I realized that video games are not going to get any better. If anything, we are going to get more of the same. Another dull generation if you ask me. If you need examples just look at both Sony and Microsoft's conferences. They are either sequels or spinoffs of already established franchises. The only game that peaked my interest in a big way is Killer Instinct.

Killer Instinct. I have fond memories playing that game on the Super Nintendo at my friend's house. Pulling off combos for hours. Until we manage to perform a Ultra. Man! those were the days. Unbeknownst to me, that there was an arcade scene, with another groups of friends, doing the same thing. The only difference, was that they were huddled next to an arcade machine instead of TV screen. Somehow that game brought people together, like many others. There was a sense of community. People you could share info with, and exchange game strategies. The same could be said with many other games at the time. Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, Sonic, Mario, and Contra.

But now.... It's not the same. We as gamers lost something special over these past generations. Gradually, we lost our arcade roots. The only place where we could see and play the latest and greatest before they got home ports. Although, I could tell it was coming since the Dreamcast manage to get arcade perfect ports of 3rd Strike and King of Fighters.

Nowadays, if you want to play against somebody, just log on to PSN or Xbox live and have a go at it. However, most of the time, you'll hear a bunch of whiners threatening you with murder and racial slurs. Not a very friendly environment. Back in the day you'd have your ass kicked if you said anything like that in a arcade.

The anonymity of the internet i guess brings out the asshole in people.

What brought this up, was when I had John and Chris over to record our last podcast, I forced them to play Contra. Seeing them miserably fail on the first stage cheered me up. Yeah... I know. Its kinda messed up. But having them there brought back a joy that I have been missing for a long time. We then played Metal Gear and Resident Evil. It was like high school all over again. Just me and a bunch of friends, breaking each others balls and talking about upcoming video games.

I feel that we lost that sense of community since the arrival of Xbox Live back in 2002. And with another Battlefield and Call of Duty down the line, I don't see gaming changing for the better anytime soon. (Or maybe its just the nostalgia talking.)