EXP Podcast #167: So Wrong, Yet So Right

We've all played some clunkers in our time, but what what are the roots of a bad game's troubles? Could it be the person at the end of the controller? Could we be doing it wrong? Today, Jorge and I talk about the line between a bad game and a bad player. Inspired by Sean Sands' thoughts about getting a new perspective on games he hasn't liked, we discuss the search for a clear vision. We touch on everything from Kinect Star Wars to Far Cry 2, and have a great time searching for the good in even the most tedious experiences. As always, feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts!

Some discussion starters:

- Has there ever been a time when you realized you were playing a game "wrong?" What prompted this realization?

- What kinds of things do bad games teach us? Is "bad" more of a relative concept based on popular conventions than an absolute category?

- To what extent should developers guide players toward the standard or "right" way to play?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
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Show notes:

- Run time: 35 min 14 sec
- "You're Doing it Wrong," by Sean Sands, via Gamers With Jobs
- Music provided by Brad Sucks