Why Superman and Open World Gaming Don’t Mix

How to make players act like Superman without resenting restriction?

Superman is more than mechanics.  A game must prevent players from resenting restriction and the people of Metropolis. Can a players be instilled with the feelings, attitudes, and values of the noble Superman?

I appreciate the thoughtfulness with which many approached the issue of an open-world Superman game. However, I respectfully dissent that such a game would be well-received by general audiences. I’ve reflected since the 2005, anticipating Superman Returns, and believe that Superman and open-world gaming do not mix… yet.

The appeal of open-world gaming comes from balancing:

  • The Environment and its Traversal (World)
  • Providing As Much Freedom As Possible (Open)
  • Immersing Player into the Character (Game)

Superman presents unique challenges: read more