The debate over the merits of so-called “forever games” has been ongoing in the gaming community, with opinions varying widely. However, developer John “Bucky” Buckley, the community manager behind the surprise hit Palworld, has taken a firm stance against the concept. According to Bucky, playing the same title repeatedly is “not healthy” for players, developers, or the industry as a whole. In a recent interview with YouTuber Going Indie, Bucky expressed his concerns about the growing trend of live-service games and the negative impact they can have on the gaming ecosystem.
Bucky highlighted his worries about large companies pushing what he describes as “soulless” live-service games onto players. He believes that this approach is not sustainable and could ultimately harm both gamers and developers. While acknowledging that some games, like League of Legends and Dota 2, are designed to be played for extended periods, Bucky argues that many titles are being marketed as forever games when they are not intended to be played that way. This, he believes, can lead to player burnout and a negative impact on the industry as a whole.
As a solution to the issue of forever games, Bucky encourages players to explore indie games and try out new experiences, regardless of their popularity. He believes that indie games offer a fresh and innovative alternative to the endless cycle of live-service titles, providing a more diverse and enriching gaming landscape. This focus on indie games is not new for Bucky, who has previously spoken out against the negative discourse surrounding Palworld and its unique concept. Despite early allegations of copying and legal concerns, Palworld has seen significant success, reaching 25 million players in its first month.
In a recent development, Pocketpair, the studio behind Palworld, announced a partnership with Sony Music Entertainment for Palworld Entertainment Inc. This collaboration hints at a bright future for the indie developer, with potential opportunities to expand and innovate in the gaming industry. As Bucky continues to advocate for a more diverse and healthy gaming ecosystem, it remains to be seen how his perspective will shape the future of gaming and the ongoing debate over forever games.
Overall, Bucky’s insights offer a thought-provoking perspective on the dangers of forever games and the importance of embracing diversity and innovation in the gaming industry. By encouraging players to explore new experiences and supporting indie developers, Bucky hopes to create a more vibrant and sustainable gaming landscape for everyone involved.
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