One thing I'll say is that sometimes obsessing over a game, speedrunning a game, or just analyzing a game closely enough to find the cracks and holes will actively burn me out. I liked Dark Souls a lot but by the time I memorized speedrun routes and the most optimal ways to do most things it kinda drained some of my love for exploring the game. The more I uncovered and explored it, the less fun I found myself having.
That's probably a natural realization but one I wished I'd had earlier. Typing this out has actually lead to a direct answer to your question: When I really love a game, I am now careful to appreciate it without exsanguinating it.
I don't like traditional platformers such as the Mario games. Once you add in character growth (I'm speaking mostly about metroidvania elements, getting new weapons, getting new ammo, leveling up, etc) then I'm on board. I know these are totally great games, but I just can't get into them for more than 30 minutes at a time. I'm way more attracted to games that have persistent character power progression. I love feeling like you are always getting stronger.
venfayth's comments