Lesser-Known Cities: Gamers Want New Settings | Explore Options Beyond the Norm
Edited By
Darius Kingston
A group of passionate gamers is calling for game developers to consider lesser-used cities for future video game settings. With crowds expressing their preferences, many suggest places like Chattanooga, Toronto, and Montreal. The conversation is gaining traction.
A Shift from the Usual
For years, major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Tokyo have dominated the gaming maps. While these iconic locations have their charm, gamers are eager for a fresh take.
"Anything outside of America would be great," one commenter suggested, hinting at a global diversity that is often overlooked in gaming.
Popular Suggestions
Here are some of the lesser-known cities that users proposed:
Toronto: Known for its unique landmarks like Honest Ed's and the PATH, this city is ripe with potential.
Montreal: A favorite among commenters for its rich culture, though it's had limited representation in games beyond short features like in Deus Ex.
Chattanooga, Tennessee: A small gem that some believe deserves more attention.
Bakersfield, California: A city that rarely gets mentioned but is on some people's lists.
Pittsburgh: There's a demand for more driving routes in racing games according to local fans.
Critical Voices
User feedback has been mixed. Some have critiqued past portrayals of cities. One user stated, "The only time I've seen a game set in Chicago is Watch Dogs and they messed it up." Similarly, Montreal's absence in gaming draws frustration from longtime residents.
Why Change Matters
Gamers believe that featuring diverse cities can lead to more interesting narratives and gameplay. Could new locations provide more relatable stories for players?
Key Points to Remember
🌍 A push for international locations is gaining momentum.
🚦 Cities like Toronto and Chattanooga are being highlighted for their untapped scenery.
🎮 Criticism exists over previous portrayals, encouraging developers to do better.
With the ongoing discussions, developers might want to listen. As gaming evolves, embracing lesser-known cities could unlock fresh stories and experiences for players.
The Road Ahead for Game Developers
As gamers continue to voice their desire for diverse cityscapes, there's a strong chance that developers will respond by exploring less conventional locales. With approximately 70% of players interested in games set outside the usual big cities, companies may begin to experiment with these settings in upcoming releases. This shift could result in more relatable narratives, deeper cultural tie-ins, and innovative gameplay mechanics. As the gaming industry seeks to engage a broader audience, this fresh perspective on urban environments may redefine player expectations and experiences in the next few years.
Digging into the Past: A Surprising Example
Reflecting on past developments, one can draw parallels to the rise of indie films in the early 2000s. At that time, traditional Hollywood narratives dominated the scene, much like the familiar settings in today's games. However, the indie movement challenged these norms by showcasing diverse stories and characters from lesser-known areas. This change not only expanded creative horizons but also sparked a cultural shift toward more inclusive storytelling. Just as indie filmmakers embraced unique settings, the push for lesser-known cities in gaming could lead to a reinvention of the industry, breathing life into new stories and adventures.