Racing - Act 5 - Burnout

Burnout series is a racing game experience unlike anything else to this day. The series is a high-octane, adrenaline-fueled racing experience that prioritizes pure fun and destruction over realism. With its emphasis on intense crashes, exhilarating takedowns, and super high speeds, Burnout has carved its own niche in the racing game genre. The sheer satisfaction of causing massive pileups and witnessing cars crash in spectacular fashion is thrilling. The game's "Crash" mode, where players aim to cause the most destruction possible, provides a cathartic and chaotic experience that is a refreshing departure from traditional racing games. The only game series with the concept of takedowns to this day is burnout, where you attack and crash an opponent’s car to win cars and rewards. The Burnout series remains a beloved franchise for fans of high-energy, arcade-style racing games. The series succeeds in delivering an enjoyable and visceral racing experience, particularly in multiplayer modes where the competitive and chaotic nature of Burnout truly shines.

However, this emphasis on destruction comes at the expense of depth and variety in the gameplay. The racing itself lacks the strategic elements and technical elements found in other racing series. Burnout's arcade-style handling and simplified mechanics feel old and repetitive over time. While the initial thrill of aggressive driving and takedowns is undeniable, it can become predictable and less satisfying in the long run. The Burnout series has also struggled to offer an interesting single-player experience. The lack of storytelling, as well as the absence of meaningful progression systems, leaves the single-player campaigns feeling unmemorable. The game's focus on short bursts of adrenaline rushes may not provide the longevity and depth that some players seek. The game studio also did not make a new installment in over a decade and most players have forgot about the franchise. Despite these drawbacks, if the game studio decides to make a new installment of the game, players would play it to once again feel that adrenaline-rush and experience nostalgia as there is still no other game quite like this.

Burnout series review rating (8/10)

Racing - Act 4 - Gran Turismo

The Gran Turismo series has long been hailed as a pinnacle of realism and authenticity in the racing game genre. One of the standout features of the Gran Turismo series is its unparalleled commitment to realism. The game's attention to detail in car modeling, physics, and track design is truly impressive and unlike any other racing game series. The realistic handling of vehicles, the accurate representation of real-world tracks, and the depth of customization options contribute to an immersive and authentic racing experience. Players of this game are usually hardcore gamers who love racing simulation so they can experience what it’s like to change gears with controlling the clutch, sliding around the corners and analyze how much physics play a part in real-time racing.

However, this dedication to realism comes at a cost. The Gran Turismo series has often been criticized for its slow progression and steep learning curve. While it caters the hardcore racing enthusiasts seeking a true simulation experience, it may alienate casual players who prefer a more accessible and immediate gameplay. The lengthy grind to earn credits and unlock new cars and challenging AI opponents can be frustrating and not allow players from fully enjoying the game. The series has also struggled with inconsistent presentation and a lackluster single-player experience with no open world cruising or free-roam option. The user interface in Gran Turismo games has often felt outdated and uncreative, making it difficult to navigate menus and access game features. The single-player campaigns, while offering a variety of races and challenges, have lacked storytelling. This results in a sense of detachment and a missed opportunity to create a more engaging and memorable experience. Lastly, like the Forza series, Gran Turismo is an exclusive game for PlayStation only, resulting in a very small community that plays the game competitively.

Despite these shortcomings, the Gran Turismo series remains an impressive technical achievement. The level of detail and authenticity it brings to the racing genre is commendable. It continues to attract a dedicated fan base of PlayStation players who appreciates the depth of the simulation and the experience of interacting with cars fully.

Gran Turismo series review rating (7.25/10)

Racing - Act 3 - Midnight Club

 The Midnight Club series holds a special place in the hearts of many racing game enthusiasts, delivering a unique and exhilarating street racing experience back in the old days. With its underground racing culture, open-world environments, and intense high-speed pursuits, Midnight Club has captivated players for years. Unfortunately, the game studio has not released any new installment of the series in years and does not plan to do so anytime soon. It is a similar racing game series to Need for Speed and was a staple in every household that had a PlayStation console or PlayStation portable. The visuals effects of cars running on nitrous, blurry drifting graphics and difficult racing AI, the game was a challenge to play, thus making rewards extremely satisfying once a player finished a race or the game. Arguably, this game was ahead of its time in terms of graphics and racing mechanics however, there were still a lot of problems with the game which eventually led to its extinction.

One of the main drawbacks of the Midnight Club series is its lack of innovation and evolution. While the earlier entries in the franchise, such as Midnight Club II and Midnight Club 3 Dub Edition, introduced fresh ideas and pushed the boundaries of open-world racing, later installments failed to build upon that foundation. The series became stagnant, recycling familiar gameplay mechanics and environments without offering anything substantially new or exciting. The controls felt floaty and imprecise, making it difficult to maintain control during high-speed races. Additionally, the open-world environments, while visually impressive, lacked depth and interactivity. Unlike other open-world racing games that offered a multitude of activities and challenges, Midnight Club felt old and repetitive outside of the main racing events. While street racing narratives can be engaging when executed well, Midnight Club failed to deliver compelling stories or memorable characters. Ultimately, resulting in loss of players to the point that no one bothered to show interest in the franchise as well as the game studios.

Midnight Club series review rating (7/10)

Racing - Act 2 - Forza

The Forza series, both Forza Horizon and Forza Motorsport, is a shining example of what racing games should be. With stunning visuals, fantastic attention to detail, and an impressive lineup of cars, these games have set the bar high for the genre and consistently delivered exceptional racing experiences.

Starting with Forza Horizon, this spinoff series takes the racing genre to new heights with its open-world environments and dynamic festival system that is the main core of each Installment. The Horizon games offer an unrivalled sense of freedom and exploration, allowing players to cruise through breathtaking landscapes, participate in thrilling races, and discover hidden treasures. What sets the Forza Horizon series apart is its ability to strike the perfect balance between realism and accessibility. The driving mechanics feel responsive and satisfying, offering a rewarding experience for both casual players and racing enthusiasts depending on how easy/difficult they want their racing to be. The customization options for cars are extensive, allowing players to fine-tune their vehicles to suit their preferred playstyles. Last but not least, the inclusion of an impressive music selection and a robust multiplayer component further enhances the overall experience, making it a true standout in the racing game genre and arguably the best racing game series currently out in the market. As for the Forza Motorsport series, it is the dream of racing purists. With a strong focus on precision and realism, Forza Motorsport delivers a true simulation experience. The attention to detail in the car models, tracks, and physics is unrivalled, creating an authentic racing experience. The depth and complexity of the gameplay mechanics offer a challenge to seasoned racers, who can fine-tune their strategies and compete against skilled opponents online too.

The only criticism the Forza series faced since day one was it being an exclusive game for Xbox and PC only as it is created by Microsoft studios who owns the Xbox franchise. PlayStation and Nintendo players cannot play this game on their consoles, thus making its online multiplayer experience limited with not as many payers active unlike games like Need for Speed, which can be played through cross-platform format.

Forza series review rating (9.25/10)

Racing - Act 1 - Need For Speed

The Need for Speed series has long been a staple in the racing game genre since the 1990’s. The franchise was one of the pioneers to introduce 3-D style of racing game. Over the course of existence, the franchise has created more than 20 installments of the game year after year, while many of them have been a success, in recent years, it has failed to live up to its former glory. While the series once offered thrilling racing experiences and a sense of high-speed adrenaline, it has since become a shadow of its former self due to uninspired sequels and repetitive gameplay. One of the biggest issues with the Need for Speed series is the lack of innovation. The games have become predictable, with each new installment feeling like a remake of the old game. The formula of street racing, police chases, and car customization has grown stale, leaving players yearning for something fresh and exciting. Another major disappointment is the inconsistent quality of the gameplay and mechanics. While recently, some installments in the series have showcased solid controls, good storyline and exciting races like “Need for Speed Unbound”, others have been displaying unbalanced AI and broken game mechanics like “Need for Speed Payback”. The lack of attention to detail and refinement in the gameplay mechanics is frustrating, the storytelling is lackluster at best and there is no meaningful character development anymore.

However, it's important to acknowledge that the Need for Speed series still holds a special place in the hearts of many fans as there are still installments like “Unbound”, “Heat”, “Rivals” and “Most Wanted” that people still play to this day, despite many of them being reasonably old. The iconic soundtracks, stylish car designs, car customization options and the thrill of high-speed racing while being chased by the police are elements that have resonated with players for years. For those seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane, the earlier titles in the series still hold up and deliver a more satisfying racing experience than the current ones however the studio is trying to innovate and redesign the whole experience to bring Need for Speed back to its glory days.

Need for Speed Review Rating (7.75/10)

Platform Loyalty

From consoles to PCs, mobile devices to virtual reality systems, gamers show their loyalty to their preferred gaming platforms to extents where gamers discuss and often criticize players of other platforms on different forums and online communities, each showing how they are superior to the other. But why do they do this? Why do gamers go to such extents as to defending their platform? Why are they so loyal to a single platform?

Console loyalty is a very important aspect of gaming culture. Players who grew up with a specific console brand, such as “PlayStation”, “Xbox”, or “Nintendo”, often develop a sense of loyalty to that platform. Why? They appreciate the exclusive titles, distinctive features of the console, the controller feel, operating software and the overall gaming experience provided by their chosen console. Console loyalty extends beyond personal preference and becomes a part of gamers' identities, fueling debates and discussions within the gaming community. On the other hand, PC gaming has its own dedicated fan base. PC gamers appreciate the flexibility and customization options that come with gaming on a personal computer. The ability to upgrade hardware, access a wide range of games, and enjoy superior graphics and performance are key factors that contribute to PC gaming loyalty. Majority of hardcore gamers and e-sports players also either use a console or a PC.

Mobile gaming has become increasingly popular, thanks to the widespread availability of smartphones and tablets. Mobile gamers value the convenience and accessibility of gaming on the go. Many players develop loyalty towards specific mobile platforms, such as iOS or Android, due to their preferred app stores, exclusive titles, or social features. Mobile gamers appreciate the ease of use and the ability to enjoy gaming experiences anytime, anywhere as mostly they are casual gamers. Similarly, virtual reality (VR) gaming is an emerging platform that immerses players in virtual worlds. VR enthusiasts display loyalty to their preferred VR systems, such as the “Oculus Rift”, “HTC Vive”, or “PlayStation VR”. They are drawn to the unique and immersive experiences that VR offers, including the ability to interact with virtual environments and objects. VR gaming loyalty starts from the desire to be at the front of cutting-edge technology and to explore new dynamics of gaming.

Competitive Culture

 The gaming community, since the introduction of online gaming, have created a competitive culture that is both celebrated and scrutinized in the gaming community. Competitive gaming, also known as e-sports, has grown significantly in recent years, with professional tournaments, teams, and dedicated fan bases emerging worldwide. This culture of competition brings skilled players together who strive for victory and success, pushing the boundaries of skill and strategy in their respective games. One of the driving forces behind the competitive culture in gaming is the desire for recognition and validation. Just like athletes in traditional sports like basketball or football, competitive gamers seek recognition for their abilities, dedicating countless hours to shaping their skills, finding loopholes and mastering game mechanics. They compete not only for personal satisfaction but also for the opportunity to be acknowledged as the best in the world or whatever level they play at. Another aspect of the competitive culture is the sense of community and relationships it fosters. Competitive gamers often form teams or join gaming communities where they can connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for competition.

However, the competitive culture in gaming is not without its challenges. The intense drive to win can often lead to toxic behavior, especially in children who are below 18, such as harassment, trash talking, and cheating. Ultimately, sometimes resulting in the player being banned from professional tournaments or even games as a whole. Organizations and leading game studious like “Activision”, “Rockstar Games”, etc, have been actively working to eliminate this toxicity and promote fair play enforcing certain codes of conduct. Additionally, the competitive nature of gaming has attracted many financial investments, with sponsors, advertisers, and investors recognizing the potential of e-sports. This has led to the professionalization of gaming in recent years, with players becoming full-time athletes and earning substantial salaries. Major tournaments now offer significant prize pools, incentivizing players to compete at the highest level.

Gaming Lingo

Well in order to be a hardcore gamer, a player should know how to communicate like one. The world of gaming is not only known for its immersive experiences and high-quality gameplays but also for its unique vocabulary and slang. Gamers have developed a language of their own over time, filled with phrases and words that are specific to the gaming community. These terms are a means of communication, often allowing gamers to express themselves and convey information efficiently. Mentioned below are some common phrases and words frequently used by gamers today:

• GG: Meaning "good game" which reflects sportsmanship and a way of expressing respect and acknowledging the efforts of opponents after a match or a round in the game.
• Noob: This word refers to a player who is new or inexperienced in a game. It can be used normally but is mostly used derogatorily to undermine opponents and their skills. 
• AFK:  Meaning "away from keyboard" which represent an inactive player that are temporarily leaving their game or stepping away from their computer or console.
• Ping: This word is related to the time it takes for information/small data to be downloaded on the gaming device and back on the server while playing online games.
• FPS: Meaning "frames per second" which represents the number of images being displayed simultaneously each second to create the moving video effect.
• DPS: Meaning "damage per second" which refers to the amount of damage a player or an in-game character can deal within a specific time frame.
• Nerf: Refers to a change made by developers to balance gameplay and make certain abilities, weapons, or characters less overpowered.
• OP: Meaning "overpowered" which can reflect to a character, weapon or certain ability in the game that is unfairly levels above the rest.
• Farming: Refers to the act of repetitively and efficiently gaining resources, experience, or in-game currency in order to progress in the game.
• Camping: Refers to a playstyle where a player remains in one advantageous location, hidden waiting for opponents to come by. It is often criticized as a frustrating tactic.
• Lag: Refers to the delay or slowdown in the responsiveness of a game caused by a poor internet connection or technical issues. 

Player Division

Now, within the gaming community, there is a diverse range of gamers/players, each with their own preferences and playstyles. We could categorize these so-called gamers in different categories that can be observed based on the games they are interested in and play. The main categories which could explain the type of gamer are listed below for someone to understand the concept of gamers easily. 

• Casual Gamers: These individuals play games for leisure and entertainment purposes or whenever they have free time to relax and. They often prefer to play easy-to-learn titles which can be easily downloaded on their mobile phones. An example of such games would be an online party game like "Clash of Clans" or "8-ball Pool". Casual gamers enjoy short gaming sessions on the go and may not invest significant time or effort into mastering the game they are playing.
• Hardcore Gamers: These individuals are deeply dedicated to gaming and often seek challenging experiences. They free their time and invest money in games that require high skill levels, strategic thinking, and long-term commitment. Hardcore gamers regularly engage in competitive multiplayer games, such as first-person shooters like "Call of Duty" or esports titles, where they can showcase their expertise and compete against other skilled players from all around the globe.
• RPG Gamers: RPG, also known as "role playing games", are games in which individuals are interested in creative storytelling, character development, open worlds and want to play as a fictional character. They are attracted to such games because it offers in-depth narratives, exploration, and the ability to shape their character's journey. RPG enthusiasts are not really competitive and often spend hours exploring, completing quests, and forming connections with virtual characters. 
• Strategy Gamers: These individuals are more interested in tactical decision-making and resource management rather than the graphics and assets of the game. They are attracted to real-time strategy (RTS) or turn-based strategy (TBS) titles such as "Age of Empire" where they have to use their critical thinking and analyze their opponents to achieve victory. Strategy gamers enjoy formulating plans, and outsmarting opponents through strategic gameplay and often play games to sharpen their minds.
• Simulation Gamers: These individuals find enjoyment in games that simulate real-life activities or allow them to showcase their skills to the world to play in e-sports tournaments. Simulation games like "Formula 1" or "Assetto Corsa" are examples of racing simulation games in which players feel how it is like to drive a car in reality and what the experience is like driving fast cars on the track. Simulation gamers indulge in city-building simulations, business management games, or life simulators where they enjoy the sense of control, creativity, and real-life experience offered by these games. 

Gaming Speedrun

Video games or gaming has evolved into a global phenomenon that has captured the hearts and minds of millions of people worldwide. It has become more than just a pastime and is now a form of entertainment and a way of expression that has created a passionate/competitive community. At its core, gaming can be defined as the act of playing video games, engaging with interactive digital experiences that challenge, entertain, and allow players to see and complete tasks in virtual worlds. 

Why do people love gaming so much? A key reason why people love gaming is its ability to provide a sense of escapism. Games allow players to feel and see different realities, allowing them to explore imaginative landscapes, assume the roles of powerful characters, and take on challenges that they cannot in the real world. This escapism allows the players to temporarily disconnect from the stresses and challenges of their daily lives, providing a chance to recharge mentally and emotionally. Additionally, gaming offers a unique form of engagement and interactivity. Unlike other forms of entertainment such as watching movies or reading books, gaming actively involves the player in deciding the outcome of the experience. Players have the ability to make decisions, solve puzzles, and overcome obstacles, which creates a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. The interactive nature of gaming develops a deep sense of focus and determination, as players become active participants in the virtual worlds they inhabit.

 Furthermore, gaming has become a social activity that brings people together. With technology updating every day, people can now play online multiplayer games which enable players to connect and collaborate with friends and strangers from all around the world via Wi-Fi. Players can also now play games in 1080p and even in 4K resolution which is very realistic compared to the real world. Whether it is cooperative gameplay or competitive matches, gaming allows people to develop new friendships, strengthen existing bonds, and create a sense of community.