Open World vs. Linear Video Games
Luke Gikoka
Content Writer
Article Writer
Blog Writer
The world of video games has evolved significantly over the years, offering players
an ever-expanding range of experiences. Back in the day the concept of an ‘open
world’ had a far more limited vision compared to the sheer size of the triple A titles of
today. While mechanically certainly impressive, these have garnered their share of
criticism with critics preferring a more linear experience that is focused. Each of
these gaming styles offers a unique set of advantages and disadvantages, but
deciding which is better is entirely based on the criteria of the framework that one is
judging them on. In this article, we will delve into the different experiences of open
world and linear video games, examining their defining characteristics, strengths,
weaknesses, and then providing criticism and recommending which fits better your
tastes.
The Open World Odyssey
What Defines an Open World Game?
Open world games, often referred to as sandbox or open-ended games, are
characterized by vast, immersive virtual environments that players can explore
‘freely’. Freely of course doesn’t truly mean being able to do anything and go
everywhere since it’s impossible to simulate our own entire world, however usually
these games will delve deep into one aspect and offer a vast amount of choice
pertaining it. These environments are typically richly detailed and interconnected,
mimicking the complexity of the real world. Players are given the freedom to choose
their own paths, interact with a ton of NPCs, and engage in a wide variety of
activities, all within the confines of the game world.
Strengths of Open World Games
1. Freedom and Exploration: Open world games empower players with
unparalleled freedom to choose when, where, and how to explore the world. This
freedom allows for very personalized gaming experiences, making each
playthrough feel unique. Of course that is supposed to be the case in theory, but
a good open world game should absolutely deliver on this.
2. Immersive Storytelling: Many open world games incorporate intricate and
immersive narratives that unfold as players progress. Mind this doesn’t mean
that the stories are great or complex but rather that they are immersive and can
get you to easily become absorbed in the experience. These narratives are often
nonlinear, meaning players can tackle different story elements at their own pace.
3. Endless Activities: From side quests and minigames to collectibles and hidden
secrets, open world games are supposed to be teeming with content and tend to
be very long although that doesn’t have to be always the case. This variety
keeps players engaged for extended periods, as there is always something new
to discover.
4. Player Agency: Open world games frequently allow players to shape the game
world and story through their choices. At the very least a lot of the side quests
will have different outcomes to the choices you make. Also, the order at which
you complete them or find them is less fixed. This sense of agency can be really
freeing and immersive thus making players want to look up and compare their
choices to others.
Weaknesses of Open World Games
1. Overwhelming Size: The sheer scale of open world games can be intimidating
for a lot of players, especially if it’s your first game. Navigating vast landscapes
and managing numerous quests can become overwhelming, potentially deterring
newcomers. Not only that but if the specific game doesn’t have a good UI it can
deter from the experience as it becomes harder to keep track of anything. In fact
any flaw that the game might have becomes very noticeable because of this.
2. Filler content: Because of the sheer size of this worlds, often time a lot of
assets will be reused within the same game, this means a ton of building, NPC
appearances and other assets will be replicated. The same can be said for
quests where a lot of this content will feel like it’s just there to pad out time and
won’t have something unique to it, this would very rarely happen in more linear
games.
3. Time-Consuming: To fully appreciate an open world game, players often need
to invest a significant amount of time which a lot of people may not have and it is
harder to stay invested if the side or main quests aren’t entertaining. This can
also be a drawback for gamers with limited schedules.
4. Technical Limitations: Developing expansive open world games that are both
visually stunning and perform smoothly can be a technical challenge and it takes
time. As a result, many open world games will suffer from more bugs and
technical issues than a linear game. Especially if it is a very long game. Some
series might choose to reuse assets in non-creative ways which can hurt the
experience as well.
The Linear Journey
What Defines a Linear Video Game?
Linear video games, in contrast, offer a structured and guided experience that is
usually more focused on the main story. They present players with a predetermined
path, often following a set narrative or sequence of events. Linear games are known
for their more directed gameplay, where progression is typically straightforward.
Strengths of Linear Video Games
1. Narrative Focus: Linear games excel in delivering tightly crafted narratives.
There is usually no filler quests that you could accidentally trigger while trying to
follow the main quest in an open world game. The developer can control the
pacing and storytelling elements more precisely, ensuring a cinematic and
emotionally resonant experience.
2. Accessible: Linear games are often easier for newcomers to pick up and play
simply for the fact their attention isn’t required to be split in tracking and learning
a bunch of different mechanics. They don't require as much investment in
exploring vast worlds, making them more accessible to a wider audience.
3. Time-Efficient: Linear games are shorter and more time-efficient. This makes
them suitable for players with limited gaming time or those seeking a more
concise and intense experience. Some can definitely will be longer and may also
have side content but those can be ignored since they are there for players who
want to spend more time.
4. Polished Experience: The linearity of these games allows developers to polish
and refine every aspect, resulting in a smoother and bug-free gaming
experience.
Weaknesses of Linear Video Games
1. Limited Replayability: Linear games can lack the replay value of open world
counterparts especially compared to the open world games that thrive in different
paths and choices. Once the story is completed, there may be little incentive to
return unless the game offers branching storylines or alternate endings.
2. Reduced Freedom: The structured nature of linear games means players have
limited agency. They cannot explore the game world freely or make significant
decisions that affect the outcome of the story. There might not even be that much
side content.
3. Predictability: Linear games follow a predetermined path, which can make them
predictable for experienced gamers. The absence of surprises or deviations from
the set narrative can diminish the sense of discovery. Of course better linear
games can escape this.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
Both open world and linear video games have had a profound impact on the gaming
industry and each style has its own set of dedicated fans that as always have a lot of
praise and complaints they deliver respectively.
Development Challenges
Developing open world games can be a daunting task due to the need for vast,
interconnected environments and the technical challenges of maintaining
performance and minimizing bugs. In contrast, linear games offer a more controlled
development process, focusing on storytelling and gameplay mechanics without the
need for sprawling landscapes.
Player Engagement and Longevity
Open world games often lead to longer playtimes, as players become engrossed in
exploring every nook and cranny of the virtual world. This extended engagement can
be advantageous for game developers and publishers, as it keeps players invested
for longer periods and encourages downloadable content (DLC) and
microtransactions.
On the other hand, linear games may be seen as more approachable for players with
busy schedules, leading to increased sales due to their accessibility.
Artistic Expression
Both styles allow for unique forms of artistic expression. Open world games enable
developers to craft expansive, living worlds filled with intricate details and
environmental storytelling. Linear games, on the other hand, allow for more
cinematic and emotionally charged narratives, akin to interactive movies.
Conclusion, the Player's Dilemma: Choice and Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice between open world and linear video games comes down to
personal preference and gaming objectives. Some players relish the freedom and
sense of exploration that open world games provide, while others appreciate the
structured narratives and accessibility of linear games.
You are not limited to one style, as both open world and linear games have their
merits. The ideal choice depends on your preferences. Do you want to immerse
yourself in a world where you can explore and have an impact on it? Do you want to
be focused in a story with really engaging characters and cinematics?
Either way video games offer what no other medium can, being able to interact with
a story.
