Why Video Game Developers AVOID Rewarding 100% Completion
When discussing why many video games do not offer substantial rewards for achieving 100% completion, we find ourselves unraveling a fascinating dynamic between player expectations and developer intent. This article aims to clarify and explore the reasoning behind this somewhat paradoxical decision, ultimately shedding light on why the journey in video games is considered more valuable than the destination.
The Essence of Gaming
Video games are fundamentally about playing, and this plays a crucial role in determining what types of rewards are meaningful. The game experience itself is the primary appeal, not the collectible items or end-game content. In many respects, the journey is more rewarding than the destination. This concept is best encapsulated by the idea that the gameplay is the true heartbeat of the game, and any bonus or reward must be carefully balanced to not detract from this core experience.
Why Rewards for 100% Completion Fall Flat
A reward for 100% completion presents a unique challenge. By definition, completing every aspect of a game means that the player has reached the pinnacle of the game’s content. Adding any new objectives or rewards for 100% completion does not extend the journey—it solidifies the end point. This paradox poses a significant problem because the very nature of these rewards is to enhance the playing experience, which, by this point, is already complete. Any additional reward would merely be padding, as the player has effectively finished the game.
Consider the well-known reward in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The 900 Korok seeds, a hallmark of completion, ultimately results in a seemingly trivial reward. The developers have embraced this concept, making the 100% completion reward essentially worthless, which aligns with the game's philosophy that the journey is what matters most.
Alternative Rewards: Bragging Rights and Emotional Fulfillment
While completing a game often involves a strong sense of accomplishment and bragging rights, these feelings are distinct from tangible rewards. Collectibles serve more as additional content to be sought after, rather than central to the core gameplay. The real reward lies in the exploration and discovery that comes with hunting for these items. Even without any substantial reward, the sense of achievement is more than sufficient. The act of putting in the time and effort to collect every item in a game is a reward in itself, enhancing the overall experience.
Furthermore, these achievements foster a sense of personal satisfaction that belies any need for extrinsic rewards. This psychological fulfillment is intrinsic to the human experience and is often more rewarding than any external incentive. The act of mastering a game through persistence and thorough exploration is a deeply satisfying experience that many players find rewarding enough on its own.
Conclusion
Video game developers often deliberately avoid creating substantial rewards for 100% completion to preserve the essence of the gaming experience. The journey, not the destination, is paramount. This approach not only aligns with the true spirit of gaming but also encourages players to engage more deeply with the content, explore beyond the main storyline, and celebrate the process rather than the end goal. By focusing on the journey, developers ensure that players derive maximum satisfaction from their gameplay, enhancing overall enjoyment and retaining a sense of achievement that goes beyond mere rewards.
Ultimately, the best rewards in video gaming are the emotional and psychological benefits derived from the experience itself. So, the next time you find yourself striving for that coveted 100% completion, remember that the true reward is in the journey and the joy of discovery along the way.