I have recently played 3 games that have forced a lengthy, unskippable tutorial section that runs for several hours of the game, just to unlock the most basic functions like buying the items, customizing features, multiplayer, and even 2-player split screen modes.

For 2 of these games (Armored Core 6 and Gran Turismo 7), the major draw for me was the MP and I haven't even gotten to check out MP yet because it's locked out until you get passed a certain point in the progression system. Fuckin' why do any developers do this? I just wanted to play with my sister but we have to get through most of the fucking game before we are allowed to do the multiplayer modes. Such bullshit.

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[–] JustZ 39 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (8 children)

People won't enjoy a game unless they learn the basic features.

It's a fine line for devs between teaching the player what they need to know in order to even have a chance at enjoying the game, and jamming it down their throats.

The classic example is the game Portal. It's a perfect tutorial. The player doesn't even realize it's the tutorial.

https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/analysis-of-game-concepts-and-player-learning-in-portal

I am frustrated with Cities Skylines 2, lately. Text-based tutorial with optional progress checks which is okay, but they pop up as soon as you look at a newly unlocked feature, not necessarily when you are ready to build the feature.

[–] cttttt 1 points 1 year ago

I guess another example of the Portal technique, where the teaching moments are blended into gameplay, is Cocoon. It takes that concept to an extreme.

Can't wait for a sequel/DLC tho.

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