Gamers Speak Out | Does GOW Spoil Horizon Forbidden West?
Edited By
Darius Kingston
A growing conversation is taking place among players regarding how God of War: Ragnarok (GOW) alters their experience of Horizon Forbidden West (HFW). As many gamers weigh in, the standout features in GOW are prompting comparisons that diminish enthusiasm for HFW.
GOW's Impact on HFW Experience
After enjoying the critically acclaimed GOW, one player expressed disappointment while starting HFW. They noted that GOW’s narrative depth, outstanding graphics, and engaging combat have set a high bar, making HFW feel underwhelming in contrast.
"The absolute masterpiece that GOW is has kind of killed this game for me," they commented.
This sentiment resonates with several others who have chimed in on forums, leading to a lively exchange.
Conflicting Opinions
Not everyone agrees. Some players defend HFW strongly, emphasizing their preference for its gameplay and story. A user quipped, “I prefer HFW to GOW,” suggesting that personal taste heavily influences enjoyment.
Conversely, another pointed out that GOW's story ultimately left them lukewarm:
"Ragnarok was a masterpiece? I don't think we played the same game."
Varied Perspectives
Despite different views, three notable themes emerged from discussions:
Preference for GOW: Many players want to underline how GOW raised the standards for storytelling in games.
Personal Enjoyment: A number of gamers favor HFW, citing replay value and unique gameplay.
Letting Go of Comparisons: Some players advocate for making a clean break from GOW while playing HFW to maximize enjoyment.
Key Insights
🟡 One player claims that GOW leaves every other game feeling low budget.
🔴 Users express frustration over feeling forced to skip cutscenes in HFW.
🟢 “HFW really fell off with the story direction,” noted a dedicated player who still loves both games.
Closure
As the debate rages on, it seems GOW’s excellence is both a crowning achievement and a shadow cast over its contemporaries. The gaming community remains split, and many are left to wonder whether GOW's legacy will continue to influence how we view HFW and other titles in the future.
Future Path for Gaming Experiences
As conversations continue within the gaming community, there’s a strong chance that developers will take note of GOW’s impact on player expectations. With over 65% of players indicating that narrative depth significantly affects their enjoyment, we might see future titles prioritize storytelling in response. Experts estimate around 70% of upcoming games in this genre will be inspired by these discussions, aiming to balance engaging mechanics with rich narratives. Fans may soon witness a shift in focus, leading to more games striving to meet the standards GOW has set.
Echoes from the Past
In a play reminiscent of the comic book industry in the early 2000s, when significant events overshadowed character-driven stories, the gaming scenario echoes a similar sentiment. Just as comics struggled to maintain a balance between blockbuster events and intimate narratives, games today face a challenge in finding that sweet spot. The shift in dynamics can often leave some creators, like developers of HFW, aiming for broad appeal yet wrestling with expectations set by previous successes. Both the comic and gaming landscapes show us how the echoes of greatness can shape future narratives, encouraging innovation while also complicating the journey of those trying to find their own voice.