Playing Dark Souls helped me realize that I actually enjoy playing the "bruiser/strength" archetype in games as opposed to the "agility" ones. Sure, there's the option of being the speed-focused dervish; nimbly dodging across the battlefield in a whirl of blades. However, I realized I was much more invested and careful when playing strength build characters that weren't as able to escape dangerous combat situations.
Also, I find that being able to cleave enemies in twain with giant broadswords, axes, and halberds in fewer strikes than the "death by a thousand cuts" mantra is much easier. Being an enemy-crushing, tanky brute doesn't have to mean a lack or intelligence or care in playstyle at all. Carefully considering dodge speeds, giant weapon arcs, and stamina management felt more rewarding when I was able to use these limited resources for huge (damage and otherwise) gains. Plus, giant plate armor is always cooler.
To be honest, the first thing that popped into my mind was the loop of playing pinball. The constant war against yourself and the machine to keep the ball going. When you're good at a table, being able to nail precise shot after shot in a predetermined order creates a very zen state. And if you're not feeling it or just learning, just shooting and trying again is still fun, each time thinking "I've got it now!" as the ball hurtles toward the flippers.
Man, I remember when SC II was Brad's deep-dive obsession. I took a break after WoL, and with a friend to to the new co-op missions, I look forward to playing StarCraft again.
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