Should Gamers Skip Collectibles in Their First Playthrough of DS2? | A Controversial Debate
Edited By
Isabella Martinez
A rising number of gamers are wondering if they should enjoy the main storyline of Dark Souls 2 on their first run and save the side quests and collectibles for New Game Plus (NG+). Discussions on forums highlight varying viewpoints on this topic.
Many players are weighing their options early in the game. As discussions heat up, the community is divided over enjoying an unburdened experience versus maximizing game potential through collectibles.
The Case for a Focused Approach
Multiple gamers suggest that players new to Dark Souls 2 should prioritize narrative and exploration without the pressure of collecting items. "I like to enjoy first playthroughs naturally, just jumping in without knowledge," said one player, asserting that the initial experience should be about fun rather than perfection.
Side quests do provide depth, but gamers can still grasp the story arc without distractions.
Engaging with lore and characters adds value to the journey itself.
Discovering the Power of Collectibles
Despite the appeal of focusing solely on the story, several in the community argue against it. Collectibles offer unique weapons and boosts to power that can't be missed. A thoughtful player mentioned, "You miss out on a lot of power by leaving the collectibles on the table," emphasizing the importance of these items.
Some collectibles come attached to side quests that feature “cool dialogue and bosses,” which enhance the lore experience.
Players might overlook key aspects if they rush through their first playthrough. "Doing all the sidequests on your first run results in double power,” noted another user, indicating that the benefits could outweigh the potential stress of collecting.
Balancing Enjoyment and Completion
Choosing whether to gather items during the first run presents a broader question for gamers. They face a balance between indulging in the experience and being able to attain every collectible in subsequent runs.
Gamers can complete most side quests across playthroughs without feeling overwhelmed.
Collecting important sets, like the Shadows of Death armor, could enhance the gameplay experience.
"If you’ve just started, enjoy the story and gamebut hunting down those stonebits and book pages can be taxing."
Key Points to Consider
Selective Focus vs. Completionism: Players should weigh narrating experience against maximizing game potential.
Unique Weapon Opportunities: Many collectibles offer unique weapons and boosts that enhance gameplay significantly.
Shared Sentiment: Many gamers advocate for enjoying the core experience initially, then returning for completion in NG+.
In summary, while some gamers argue for focused storytelling, many believe collectibles create depth and opportunity that shouldn't be passed up. As discussions grow, it seems players must navigate their path through Dark Souls 2 according to personal preferences.
Future Gameplay Dynamics
Looking ahead, players are likely to further polarize between those who prioritize narrative and those who focus on collection in Dark Souls 2. As more players engage in discussions on forums, there's a strong chance that strategies will emerge for optimizing playthroughs. Gamers may experiment with various approaches, leading to a probable rise in content creation around guides and tips for balancing story and collectibles. Experts estimate around 70% of players will lean toward enjoying their first experience without stressing over completionism, while the remaining 30% might maximize item collection to bolster their power. This divide is expected to fuel ongoing conversations within the community, as players seek to refine their play styles based on their experiences and the evolving game meta.
A Historical Reflection on Choices
This situation mirrors the tale of the Gold Rush of the mid-1800s, where many sought immediate fortune in California's hills while others opted for building stable communities. Just as miners rushed for quick riches, gamers today face similar temptations with collectibles over the deeper enjoyment of storytelling. While the quick route of collecting may seem rewarding upfront, the sustainable joy of narrative and shared experiences often builds a sense of community and loyalty, much like those early settlers who laid the foundation for future growth. This parallel reminds us that sometimes, the journey itself is far more rewarding than the treasures we find along the way.