How do you feel about the balance between scripted events and player freedom in games?

[killamch89]

How do you feel about this dynamic? Does a well-crafted narrative with predefined moments enhance your gaming experience, or do you prefer a more open, player-driven approach? Share examples of games where you felt the balance was perfect, as well as titles where it felt off.

[Scorpion]

I appreciate a well-crafted narrative, as it provides emotional depth, like in "The Last of Us." However, I also love open, player-driven experiences like "Breath of the Wild." Striking a balance, as seen in "God of War," enhances immersion beautifully.

[killamch89]

The balance depends entirely on what the game is trying to achieve. Linear narrative games like The Last of Us need those scripted moments to deliver emotional impact, while sandbox games should emphasize freedom. Problems only arise when games send mixed messages about how much agency players actually have.