A former Starfield developer, Will Shen, reveals player fatigue with excessively long AAA games. This sentiment suggests a potential shift in player preference towards shorter gaming experiences. Shen, a veteran with credits on titles like Fallout 4 and Fallout 76, observes a saturation of the AAA market with lengthy titles, leading to a resurgence of shorter games.
Shen's comments, featured in an interview with Kiwi Talkz (via Gamespot), highlight a growing segment of players weary of games requiring dozens of hours of commitment. He argues that the success of long-form games like Skyrim, while contributing to the "evergreen game" trend, has also created a market where adding another lengthy title is a significant challenge. He points out that many players don't complete games exceeding ten hours, impacting engagement with the narrative and overall product.
The impact of this trend is evident in the rise of shorter games. Shen cites the success of Mouthwashing, emphasizing its short playtime as a crucial factor in its positive reception. He contrasts this with the potential negative impact of extending the game with side quests and additional content.
Despite this shift, longer games remain a significant part of the AAA landscape. Starfield, with its 2024 DLC Shattered Space and a rumored 2025 expansion, exemplifies this continued trend. The industry, therefore, appears to be navigating a dual path, catering to both the demand for concise gaming experiences and the enduring appeal of expansive, long-form titles.
