A lot of people think graphics are a very important element of games. And I don't disagree. I believe graphics should be as crisp and beautiful and push the console to its limit. But we've reached the point where outstanding graphics have become so expected and realistic, they've kind of become stale. That's not to say I think games should look shitty. Not at all. If two games came out that were exactly the same except for a severe alteration in graphics, I'd of course chose the better looking one. That's partially the reason I'm bummed I have a Wii.



However, have graphics reached the point that seemed unimaginable a few years ago? I feel like we won't be seeing any more drastic leaps in design or presentation from games anymore. Getting excited for the graphical face-lift that comes packaged with each new console (Wii aside) was something I always looked forward too. But I think that's over. Games like Crysis, Killzone, MGS 4, Halo, RE 5, Gran Turismo, and so many others are known for pushing themselves higher and producing amazing aesthetics, but how much further can they really push?

In these days of graphical glory, I find myself getting more excited for the 2D releases. Perhaps it's because these games are rare and seeing a new IP that uses 2D is more intriguing and conspicuous than a hot girl wearing a comic book t shirt while playing Street Fighter in an arcade...and winning. Perhaps its because graphics nowadays are just a bit too "been there, done that" so I'm reverting back to the more simplistic, more refined style of gaming. Perhaps its just because most games today have this exhausting infatuation with dreary grays and browns that I just don't find appealing anymore.



Games like Odin Sphere, Braid, Castle Crashers, and the highly anticipated Muramasa are the games I find myself more keen to watching gameplay videos of. I dont know why, but watching a game in 2D is more appealing than a game in 3D. I mean 3D games most certainly do have an advantage when it comes to making gamers want to be in the game. Games like BioShock, FF12, SoTC, and others have such a heavy atmosphere and sense of grandeur that the world alone is enough to immerse in, regardless of graphics. Still though, I feel like today developers are more concerned to make a pretty game, dipping in a muddy puddle, slapping some drab, pale protagonists in there and call it a day.



2D to me has always had a special place in my heart (hence the header). I'm the type of guy that prefers the oldschool 2D PS1 RPGs rather than the big-budget, high-end ones of today. I know many people believe it's a stupid move for games to come out in 2D in today's market. I think they're wrong. I think games today are more bold and more appealing if they choose to take a chance and try 2D out...or they're just a downloadable indie title that a few hardcore gamers may give a shot.