Why Online Multiplayer Isn't That Important

cyrus_zuo writes "GameTunnel has published an article on why they believe online multiplayer is over-rated. Specifically, author Russell Carrol feels that multi-player is only at its best when you have an emotional connection to the people you're playing against. In his words: 'Multiplayer gaming is awesome, don't get me wrong, but I don't think that online multiplayer modes are all that great. Unless I'm playing in the same room as the person I'm playing against, I lose the emotional and physical connection that makes multiplayer games fun. .. It's like going to a party where you drink and dance by yourself in your living room, and connect to everyone else through headsets, video cameras and HD TVs. No matter how you look at it, the end result is a lame party.'"

Comments

Why?

[mqduck]

Why do we care about someone's drunken ramblings on his blog (redundant?)? If we didn't care to make a controversy out of online versus in-person multiplayer ten years ago, why would we care to now?

I fear I'm becoming a typical cranky Slashdot reading.

Re:Party in your living room (Translated)

[Al Oser]

• No virus spreading.
  • No sex
• You can control your noise volume.
  • I have sensitive ears
• You can select which people attend the party.
  • I don't get invited to real parties
• You can override the music selection at the party.
  • I like Celine Dion
• You can take a break to watch your favorite TV show.
  • I am uncomfortable with social interaction and take every chance I get to disengage
• Everybody can drink, no drunk driving.
  • People laugh at me IRL because I only drink wine coolers and Zima
• In fact, no driving anywhere at all.
  • My parents basement is climate controlled
• If you don't want to dress up, you can still just watch and listen.
  • I've worn the same pair of sweatpants for the last 3 weeks