Incoherent Game Examples

Hannah Arendt

2 min read

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29-11-2024

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The world of video games, while vast and innovative, occasionally stumbles into the realm of the utterly bizarre. This isn't necessarily a bad thing; sometimes, unintentional absurdity can lead to hilarious and memorable experiences. However, "incoherent" game design, where core mechanics clash or defy logic, can lead to frustrating and ultimately unsatisfying gameplay. Let's examine some examples of these incoherent moments.

The Case of Conflicting Mechanics

One common source of incoherence lies in conflicting game mechanics. Imagine a game where you're rewarded for stealth, yet the enemy AI possesses superhuman hearing and sight, making stealth virtually impossible. The intended gameplay loop—sneaking around and avoiding detection—is directly undermined by the game's own rules. This creates a jarring dissonance between player expectation and actual gameplay. The player feels cheated, not challenged.

Another example involves resource management. If a game heavily emphasizes resource scarcity, yet provides an almost unlimited supply of resources through easily exploitable glitches or poorly designed systems, the intended sense of challenge is completely dissolved. The game's central mechanic—managing limited resources—becomes meaningless.

Narrative Incoherence: When Story and Gameplay Clash

Incoherence isn't limited to mechanics; it can extend to the narrative itself. A game might present a compelling backstory and characters, only to have the gameplay entirely contradict the established lore. For instance, a game set in a world ravaged by a devastating plague might allow the player to freely interact with infected individuals without any consequences, undermining the narrative's established stakes.

Examples from Popular Titles (Without Specific Mention)

While pinpointing specific titles risks focusing on individual instances rather than the broader concept of incoherence, it's important to note that even popular games aren't immune to this problem. Many games have sections or features that, in retrospect, feel fundamentally at odds with the rest of the experience. These inconsistencies, though sometimes minor, can disrupt the player's immersion and enjoyment.

The Importance of Coherence in Game Design

The significance of coherent game design cannot be overstated. A well-designed game possesses internal consistency; its mechanics, narrative, and overall tone work together to create a cohesive and engaging experience. When these elements clash, the result is a game that feels broken, frustrating, and ultimately, less enjoyable. The pursuit of coherence is a key factor in creating a successful and memorable game.