What are your opinions about 'handicap' features in games (lemmy.world)

submitted 10 months ago by ViscloReader@lemmy.world to c/games@lemmy.world

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I'm talking about something like setting starting percentages on smash bros.

Things that put you (or your foes) at disadvantage for a more fair game with your friends.

What do you think about it? What are some good/bad implementations?

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[-] Donut@leminal.space 9 points 10 months ago* (last edited 10 months ago)

Being able to manipulate scores before the game starts is related to accessibility, and is always an optional feature. It helps balance the game or session for those who need it, or might spice up a game for those who enjoy it.

Aside from Mario multiplayer games (like Mario Party) and just sports games in general I don't know of any games that utilise this.

There are games that give you something OP it you fail a lot though. A lot of Nintendo games work like this when they notice you failing a lot and ask if you need a hand. There was another game I can't remember that makes you start with a power up if you die too many times, but I'll have to edit this post when I find it.

Edit: it is Super Mario 3D World / Land for WiiU / 3DS. If you fail a lot in succession the game throws you a golden leaf that makes you invincible when picked up. It's entirely optional otherwise.

[-] brsrklf@jlai.lu 2 points 10 months ago

Nintendo started doing that a lot around the Wii. New Super Mario Bros series, Donkey Kong Country Returns, etc... also on other games regular messages to let you know that you could lower the difficulty. And Skyward Sword's Fi being unable to let you play more than 2 seconds without trying to "help".

Honestly I did not like it much. I didn't mind that it was an option, but I did mind that it was a shiny, blinking thing making shrieking sounds at you as soon as you'd start facing a bit of challenge.

Super Mario Bros Wonder's way of doing this is way better IMO, with the beginner characters and some of the badges that you can activate to make the game easier when you need it.