Game Reviews

I sometimes play computer games. This is what I think of them.

None of these reviews are influenced by:

• Advertising
• A wage packet
• The need to sell a magazine

I usually play first person single player games; I will occasionally play something from another pigeon-hole.

I dislike third person games. I find boils on the end of my nose distracting. I find narcissus dolls distracting.

Usually, computer games are as empty as films. Dull, formulaic plots, reflecting nothing more the desire to make a financial return on an investment. However, unlike films, games are a new art form; a number of techniques have yet been discovered; games are an art form woth potential.

Currently, computer games are rarely more than simplistic, empty-headed fun. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong in that. Films can seem good when your brain has been boiled by flu. There's always a need for entertainment for the cebero-absent, soma for deadheads. But I do so desperately hope games will grow beyond that.