Shawn Layden, former head of PlayStation, argues that the trend of lengthy video games is becoming outdated due to players’ diminishing leisure time as they age. He reflects on the past, suggesting that many gamers now prefer shorter, more engaging experiences over 100-hour titles. While successful long games like The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2 remain popular, Layden envisions a future where games last 18 to 23 hours, delivering impactful moments that keep players captivated.
While some indie games can be wrapped up in just a few hours, blockbuster titles, particularly AAA games, often demand a significant time investment to fully experience. Ultimately, your choice hinges on your preference: do you seek an expansive, captivating journey that takes many hours, or a brief, relaxing game that offers instant gratification? Nonetheless, according to a former PlayStation executive, the trend of ‘lengthy’ games may be outdated.
Shawn Layden’s Take on Game Length
In a recent discussion with Eurogamer.com, Shawn Layden, the former head of PlayStation and president of SIE Worldwide Studios from 2014 to 2019, expressed his views on the evolving gaming landscape. He noted that the duration of games has ballooned over the years, to the point where they no longer align with the realities of modern life. Layden pointed out that as we age, our available leisure time diminishes. In essence, the older we get, the less time we can dedicate to lengthy video games.
With a hint of nostalgia, Layden reminisced about the past when gamers were less aware of the industry’s evolution. He believes that the desire for extensive gameplay has faded, asserting that few players crave 100-hour gaming experiences anymore.
Reflecting on his career, Layden acknowledged his involvement in creating games that spanned 80 to 90 hours. He candidly admitted that not every moment in those games was worth the time invested: ‘I developed several games that lasted 80 or 90 hours, and I can honestly say that not every hour was filled with quality content. I envision a future where games last 18 to 23 hours but are so engaging that players can’t help but keep playing. I want each game to deliver those unforgettable moments, like when the terrifying dogs burst through the window in Resident Evil, leaving players gripping their controllers in fear. I crave more of those impactful experiences, even if we scale back the overall length.’
Contrasting Perspectives in Today’s Gaming Market
Looking at recent gaming trends, it’s clear that longer titles have achieved remarkable success. Games such as The Witcher 3, Elden Ring, Baldur’s Gate 3, and even Layden’s own Red Dead Redemption 2 are shining examples of this trend. However, Layden’s insights resonate with many. Individuals from his generation, who once indulged in extensive gaming sessions, are now occupied with jobs and family responsibilities, leaving them with less time to engage with long games.
Ultimately, it’s important to recognize that gaming preferences vary widely. Each person has the freedom to choose how they spend their free time, whether that amounts to a single hour or a hundred.
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