Summary
Many games from older generations tend to be inherently simpler, both in their design and structure. While they’re not always more accessible, these titles generally get to the point pretty quickly. This is thanks to simple, straightforward game designs, facilitated by a space that was wide open for innovation at the time of their development.
Since these games aren’t typically bloated with unnecessary content in the way many modern titles are, they’re able to get into the action almost immediately. Players only need to learn one or two core systems before they’re thrown into the world at large, and it’s a shame that these design principles were largely replaced by games that wanted to be everything. Thankfully, many modern titles are beginning to return to the roots of old-school design, and a variety of innovations in the indie game scene has resulted in a bucket of experiences that are quick to please.
As far as roguelike deck-builders go,Balatrois perhaps one of the most accessible; featuring a design based around classic Poker hands and a score-attack structure that’s immediately apparent,Balatrois almost self-explanatory. A tactile user interface, satisfying player feedback, and intuitive controls all help in making the game feel fluid, something that’s made obvious within minutes of playing.
Balatrois truly unique, and yet it takes almost no time to learn, even for those who are unfamiliar with Poker. This is thanks to a clear and easily readable user interface, helpful accessibility features, and a minimalist design that reigns itself in at every turn. Best of all,Balatro’sdesign facilitates a variety of strategies, allowing the experience to feel diverse despite the moment-to-moment gameplay being relatively repetitive.
Somany retro shootersand modern FPS titles in the indie space are champions when it comes to bringing the fun and action of their design to the forefront.CULTICis one such example, giving players brief context and throwing them into the first level with a tremendously to-the-point tutorial.
Within mere minutes,CULTIChas players exploring eerie environments and gunning down cultists. A few minutes later, players are introduced to workbenches and weapon upgrades, as well as the immersive interactions thatCULTICallows for with its environmental hazards.
After a few minutes to set the scene,Resident Evil 5throws players in at the deep end, fighting against crazed infected in an intense opening action sequence that immediately shows players what to expect over the next several hours. Though perhaps not as revered as its predecessors,Resident Evil 5excels when played in online co-op, allowing players to work together in order to survive a variety of hectic ordeals.
The chaotic gauntlet that opensResident Evil 5is the perfect crucible for new players, testing their skills and reactions and forcing them to learn and adapt to survive. This is especially harsh on harder difficulties, but for the right kind of player, it’s an immediately fun experience.
Manyopen-world survival-craftgames drop players into the world with little guidance, forcing them to adapt quickly and naturally brush up against the game’s core systems within a matter of minutes.Terrariais immediately fun thanks to its intuitive crafting system and the simplicity of exploration in a 2D environment.
The intuitive controls and ease of play makeTerrariaan immediately accessible game, allowing players to focus on the joy of exploration and creativity from the very start. Exploring inTerrariais also tremendously fun thanks to a well-tuned combat system, diverse regions, and a dense network of randomly generated caverns.
Left 4 Dead 2wastes no time at all getting players into the action. Taking place amida zombie apocalypseand wasting very little time with its narrative,Left 4 Dead 2thrives on its fast-paced, easy-to-learn action and the dynamic interplay of its charismatic characters.
From minute one,Left 4 Dead 2gives players exactly what it promises: fast-paced action, hordes of zombies, and intuitive gameplay that lacks needless complexity. The game is fast, brutal, and encourages teamwork. Best of all, it’s easy to set up and play with friends, making ita perfect choice for online co-op.
Fans of arcade games andclassic beat ‘em upsmay find some immediately nostalgic fun withTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge. Capturing the tongue-in-cheek charm of the classic cartoons from the very start with its colorful old-school pixel art, excellent soundtrack, and talented voice actors,Shredder’s Revengesets the tone immediately.
Shredder’s Revengewastes no time throwing players into the action, either, dropping them into iconic locations and battling against the infamous Foot Clan. The game is packed with references and loving homage to the 80s cartoon, but it’s the distinctive level design, variety of bosses, and intuitive controls that makeShredder’s Revengeworth playing. Furthermore, the game can be played in local and online co-op.
After a lightning-fast tutorial and a quick sequence to set the scene,Hotline Miamishoves players into its first level with both hands. Brutal violence and throbbing music provide a swift injection of adrenaline almost immediately, perpetuated even through death by the ability to instantly restart.
Hotline Miamiis a top-down shooter with inherently simple controls, and the breakneck pace of its combat allows players to learn and adapt quickly. It’s a simple combination of unsettling dialogue sequences and violent, fast-paced rushes through close-quarters environments, but players can experience this unapologetic gameplay almost immediately.
Featuringturn-based combatpuzzles and a distinctive urban fantasy setting,Tactical Breach Wizardsis a unique experience that blends elements of gamessuch asXCOMandInto The Breachwhile simultaneously standing on its own two feet. The stylish, cinematic presentation and expertly crafted flow of the game ease newcomers into the experience before quickly dialing up the absurdity and complexity in equal measure.
This is part of what makesTactical Breach Wizardsso immediately fun, with a pragmatic tutorial that manages to lay out the world, tone, and design of what’s to come. From the get-go, players are likely to experience the promise ofTactical Breach Wizards, and it quickly peppers the player with new characters, enemies, and abilities that ramp up the action and drive a relentless pace.
