For gamers under 26, check out this video.
For gamers under 26, check out this video.
Josh Strife Hayes has just posted a new video highlighting major issues in contemporary gaming, especially AAA and modern AA titles. For those under 26 or who began playing around 2006, this is essential viewing. I recall the days when Steam DLC was rare; back then, I thought it was a positive change. Now, seeing how DLC has become common, it feels like a betrayal. Many people will remember moments when they felt strongly about what they believed would harm the game experience. Unfortunately, those who tried to warn others were met with resistance or dismissal. This post is for anyone who still thinks gaming can be enjoyable without these commercial pressures. The only real solution is for players to stop supporting these systems financially. But that outcome seems unlikely. Be honest—if you’ve never experienced gaming the way it is today, you’re missing out on a much richer experience.
Pandora's box is open. Creating games can be tough, but the indie community shines for modding. Factorio and similar 2D titles offer many exciting features.
I only enjoy AA/AAA titles and completely avoid unmodded releases (except emulators). I’m not sure what you mean, but yes, I steer clear of indie games for several reasons—especially the negative behavior some developers show on Twitter. I personally prefer simpler games because modding them can be more rewarding and help me understand the complexity of these titles. Tools exist for sophisticated games, and it’s a good challenge. For you, it might seem easier, but real modding requires skill and effort. As for me, I’d advise being selective about what you play; it’s mostly about avoiding predatory practices rather than budget constraints. Just steer clear of those “shit games,” and you’ll be fine. If he struggles with that, I can share a list.
I've written a lengthy tale about "DLC" or more specifically "microtransactions," centered around "PlayStation Home™" and the $39.99 item called "Troll Suits." People genuinely desire it, making them feel valued, even if it seems a bit unfair. It's worth noting that not all games use this approach anymore; usually, you have to actively look for it unless you're very easily influenced by big ad spending... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Most contemporary AAA and AA titles present significant challenges for modification. Creating a game is already demanding, let alone adapting it for changes. Designing a game that can be easily altered is extremely tough, especially if you don’t build it with modability in mind from the start. Twitter has largely fallen out of favor among toxic users, which means fewer concerns about that issue now. I’m suggesting that certain games were intentionally crafted to support modifications—indie titles like Doom, Quake, and Skyrim are prime examples. Games such as Call of Duty, Rainbow Six, and God of War aren’t built with modding in mind. Factorio stands out as a title specifically designed for this purpose. Indie developers often prioritize 2D projects because they’re simpler to develop, allowing more focus on features like mod support. This process is highly dependent on available tools; if robust ones exist, it requires considerable effort to implement them. Creating mods differs greatly from simply installing pre-made ones and playing altered games—this is what I was aiming to convey.
Usually it holds true, yet this also adds to its appeal! Although it's "technically" accurate for many titles, in reality it doesn't always hold up. You can usually change anything with a little effort since most engines offer modding features. Often, developers even include tools or even add support before launch—sometimes even before the game hits shelves. So while not all games are easily modifiable (like in the case of newer Tomb Raider releases where creators made it tough and even pursued legal action), it hasn't stopped people. There are plenty of options out there, just a bit more time sometimes. This is mostly true, but it overlooks other factors. I rarely play games with built-in mod support; I stick to those that aren’t, though heavily modified ones are common. It’s also true that some titles don’t have official mod tools at all, yet the engines usually accommodate it—so it’s not a big deal if you find suitable resources. Generally, I don’t bother with games that require workarounds, but the engine itself does handle most cases. In fact, I’ve seen niche titles finally get mods after years of waiting—thanks to engines like Unreal, which made it much simpler. Modding isn’t just about tools; it involves complex steps like hex editing, texture work, and game design details. Sometimes you need to edit files, use software, or even hack the system. Even when it works, it can be frustrating if the result isn’t perfect. Still, many people enjoy the process, especially for games that aren’t meant to be changed. It’s not just about having tools—it’s about passion and persistence.