We Need to Commit — It’s Time Crunchy, Complicated RPGs Made Their Comeback
Last week, I found myself celebrating how Final Fantasy XIV finally gave fashion-driven Warriors of Light the choices they craved, while also wondering about the influence of mods in MMOs.
Honestly, I’ve never fully understood the trend of transforming RPGs into action games—a shift that many major franchises and studios have embraced. Take Dragon Age, for instance: it began as a classic CRPG but gradually morphed into a third-person action game sprinkled with light RPG mechanics.
Industry wisdom has long claimed that action games are more accessible to the mainstream. Supposedly, throwing newcomers into complex character sheets or intimidating, orb-laden skill trees would only chase them away. Yet as time goes on, I find myself questioning that notion.
“This idea that players can’t handle deep, layered systems because it might overwhelm them has never really rung true.”
At the very least, it doesn’t seem true anymore. Players are now more comfortable navigating complexity if it delivers meaningful depth and creativity.
Defining the Concept of "Crunch"
Before diving deeper, it’s worth clarifying what I mean by “crunch.” Borrowed from tabletop RPGs, the term describes systems that are granular, detailed, and complex. They provide transparency in how rules operate and allow for diverse builds and playstyles.
- Granularity: Rules and systems are highly specific, ensuring clear insight into their inner workings.
- Complexity: Players can explore a broad variety of mechanics, choices, and strategies.
Why Crunch Still Matters
As the industry evolved toward simplification, something vital was lost—depth. Crunchy RPG systems invite experimentation and mastery. They respect the player’s intelligence rather than assuming confusion at every intricate mechanic.
The time seems perfect for these rich, complicated RPG experiences to reclaim their place in the mainstream.
Author’s summary: Even in a gaming world drawn to simplicity, detailed and complex RPG systems deserve a renewed spotlight for the immersive depth they provide.