Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Obstacle Course Races as Platforming Training

By Rob Sutter


Imagine an environment where there is wide terrain to run across, jumps to make, and heights to ascend. These are the kinds of qualities that obstacle course races share and I don't think that there are many activities that are as physically demanding as these. When you think about it, these kinds of races can almost be correlated to video games with plenty of action and a good number of hazards, too. Platforming video games seem to fit the bill as well as any other.

"Sonic the Hedgehog" was as fast a game as you could find back in the 90's and I don't think anyone could dispute that. He can jump and avoid hazards with the best of them but it's clear that his defining trait was his speed. Even Mario on his best day could not exactly match up to Sonic on his worst at that period of time. While Sonic is easily one of the quicker video game characters in history, I'd be lying if I said that he isn't somewhat older than most.

Maybe you want something that's more modern by comparison; Faith from "Mirror's Edge" stands as a good one to note. She has the ability to fight, like any action heroine should, but the fact that she's skilled in the way of parkour only helps her character. Then again, it seems like she would need it if she's running and jumping across building tops. There are also a number of other games that can fit in with her, Nathan Drake from "Uncharted" being one of the more noteworthy characters in current gaming.

Obstacle course races should be found in more games today because I think people would be able to appreciate the fast-paced nature of them. There are sports series such as "Madden," which have been successful because of the engaging content the titles possess. It should also be noted that while there are some who believe the games can stand an overhaul, others seem to like the sense of familiarity. Potential games with these races are fresh, though, and could stand to incorporate elements from occasions like Spartan Race.

How much complexity would the developers put into these games, though? I think that all depends on the level of work that they want to incorporate. I think that it goes without saying that obstacle course races are varied and it may prove to be a challenge to find each game that these events fall under and incorporate them in a way that is enjoyable to the player. However, with the success of sports games ever since gaming began, the work may prove to be worth the reward.




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