Edited By
Nicolas Dubois

A growing community of gamers is buzzing about the joy of frequent saving and loading mechanics, sparking a conversation on forums about which games deliver this unique thrill. This practice, commonly known as "save scumming," has been highlighted by players who enjoy retrying scenarios until they achieve the perfect outcome.
The term refers to repeatedly saving the game, then loading back in to try again after an unsuccessful attempt. Itโs particularly popular in games with random number generators (RNG), where outcomes can significantly vary. Players claimed titles like Baldurโs Gate 3 and Slay the Spire are standout examples where this practice flourishes.
Several games have emerged as favorites for those embracing this play style:
Lobotomy Corporation: Features a day-by-day anchor save system, allowing players to restart if outcomes are unfavorable.
XCOM and Jagged Alliance: Known for their challenging mechanics that often lead to reloading to improve results.
Deathloop and Dishonored: Both have mechanics enabling players to perfect their choices, although not everyone agrees on whether this enhances the gaming experience.
One user noted, "I save scummed the crap out of Baldurโs Gate 2. Dragons be damned." This sentiment resonates with many who find experimentation and retrying rewarding.
Interestingly, players overwhelmingly favor genres that allow for such tactics, especially:
Stealth games: Titles like Thief and Prey were mentioned for their challenging encounters.
Turn-based tactics: Games such as Battle Brothers highlight the mishaps from RNG combat rolls that can lead to multiple saves.
Many players appreciate having the chance to revise their choices for fun or unexpected results. One comment pointed out, "Constantly changing choices can lead to funny or unexpected outcomes."
๐น๏ธ Save scumming is an increasingly popular approach in various genres.
๐ฎ Titles like Civilization and Battle Brothers often trigger this gameplay loop due to their inherent challenges.
โจ Players enjoy experimenting with different approaches, especially in dialogue-heavy or stealth games.
This active conversation sheds light on user tendencies and the joys of experimentation in gaming, showing that the drive to achieve the perfect outcome is as prevalent as ever. As developers continue to create complex gaming environments, the appeal of saving and loading mechanics remains a beloved feature in the gaming community.
There's a solid chance the trend of save scumming will push developers to tailor games with these mechanics in mind. As players continue to express their enjoyment for retrying scenarios, developers might incorporate more forgiving systems that facilitate experimentation. Experts estimate that around 60% of upcoming titles will feature similar save and load mechanisms or systems that encourage frequent retries, especially in RPGs and strategy games. This approach could lead to a richer gaming experience, allowing players to explore various outcomes without the anxiety of permanent failure.
Looking back, the rise of personal computers in the 1980s created a parallel shift in how people interacted with technology. Just as early computer users discovered the power of saving and restoring their data to prevent loss, todayโs gamers are finding new ways to manipulate gameplay through save mechanics. This adaptation reflects an ongoing human instinct to maximize control and creativity, reminiscent of how individuals embraced the potential of technology to reshape their realities. As gaming continues to evolve, itโs clear that this flexibility in approach will remain a powerful theme.