The OFFICIAL "I intend on Quitting, and here is why" Thread

[Kimble]

Wait, we are blaming Nintendo for XI being more casual friendly?

[Zinato]

Wait, we are blaming Nintendo for XI being more casual friendly?

In a way yes, prior to its release of the Wii game developers had been working to make "hardcore" games. (evidence can be seen with "nintendo hard" games) It was only after Wii's creation that "Shovel ware" (tons of so-so games created to target the casual gamers) and casual game began to appear on the market. Nintendo had found a new market and was making buckets of money for it. Shortly after Sony, Microsoft and many Developers began to aim for the same untapped market. Nintendo Wii was a gateway console for alot of the newer gamers, (Basically anyone who doesn't remember NES, SNES or Genisis) and so these newer gamer expect the same style of game when the purchase new games. Additionally, because of this even those gamers who had played "Hardcore" have been treated to so many casualized games recently that they too are growing accustomed to it.

Of course what Vold said also plays a major role, Since WoW like the Wii was the gateway of casuals into the MMO market it is now the standard for MMO creation. (even though many FFXI fans call it easy mode) The point is the industry has changed toward casual and I would be shocked if someone could argue otherwise. Fighting that trend is fighting new customers, previously untapped customers (non gamers) and alienating those gamers who were brought up on casual.

Additionally take note that WoW was released 2004, and its first expansion was early 2007 (following the start of the casual era, though too close to have seen Wii's success) Point being many of WoWs fans would consider the game as it is now superior to the style of the original and its expansion. Much like how many XI fans consider Abyssea superior to the old ways. The difference is WoW saw the trends and embraced them, rather then doubling back and fighting them.

Now whether you think XI being more casualized is a good thing is up to you.