I’ve been totally spoiled by MMORPG’s.
Most MMORPG gameplay is too easy and might as well come with a guarantee that you will succeed. As long as you stick to the clearly labeled areas and monsters that are appropriate for your level, it’s smooth sailing. After a while, you can almost shut off your brain and go into cruise control. I often find myself daydreaming, instead of focusing on the onscreen action.
In many MMORPG’s, it is possible to challenge yourself and find tougher encounters, but it’s often not worth the effort. For efficient and effective leveling/grinding, it’s usually best to stick to monsters that die fast and easy. Dying slows your progress, even in games without a death penalty.
As a result, I’m used to playing easy games and constantly winning. I’m not used to dealing with difficult challenges. MMORPG’s typically don’t require fast reflexes or good coordination. When you level or quest grind, it’s like a leisurely stroll. No fast movements. It’s like a marathon that tests your patience and endurance.
In comparison, action games are fast and furious. They test your reflexes…your ability to think and react quickly. You’re constantly bombarded by challenge after challenge, which grow increasingly difficult. It’s completely different from how it feels when you are playing an MMORPG.
I’ve been playing my Xbox 360 a lot recently and I’m finding that I’m horrible at action games. I used to be really good (years ago…). I’m trying to play Bioshock and Resident Evil 5 and I’m unable to react quickly enough to do well. The 360 controller is horrible for shooters (compared to the keyboard+mouse) and that doesn’t help, but that’s not the primary problem. I get flustered easily now. When I’m supposed to see incoming attacks and perform split second blocks, I can’t do it! I’m no longer used to dealing with so many urgent encounters one after another. The feeling of constantly being on edge is almost foreign to me now.
I have to play the EASY or BEGINNER difficulty!!! My gamer’s pride is taking a severe beating.
Other than MMORPG’s, I’ve been mostly playing strategy, adventure and role-playing games for the past few years, so that doesn’t help my reflexes either.
I’m going to train myself hardcore to get back my gaming edge!! No more leisurely gaming. No more cakewalks!



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