Recognizing parasistic game design decision

[Shougun]

"Parasitic design" means, that a mechanic does not add much value to the core mechanics of a game. And if you remove that mechanic then the game does not change at all. BLU, Potd, HoH, Goldsaucer etc. are "parasitic" in this case. But IMHO this term sounds way worse than it is. "Parasitic design" can still be fun. The opposite of "parasitic" is "symbiotic". Adding "symbiotic" mechanics alters also the core mechanics of a game. In case of FF14 that would things like holy trinity, aetherit crystals, MSQ etc. If you remove those things then the game will immediately feel completely different.


Cheers

Maybe it should be called supplemental design? And I agree on the need to speak on what the words mean- because it's clear many are not on the same page, and some are not even on the same page for themselves. Many of the negative bespoke mechanics of other games are here too (though many of them are also appreciated).

Supplemental vs symbiotic design does sound less antagonistic!