Summary
Trial-and-error is an unfortunate reality in video games and is an often criticized part of game design. However, it’s extremely common, and this is likely because trial-and-error gameplay creates tension, as the player is punished for using the wrong solution. A game without punishment for errors results in similar experiences to those seen inthe cozy-game genreor walking simulators. There are exceptions, certainly, but trial-and-error is almost unavoidable in challenging games.
Thankfully, designers have figured out how to twist trial-and-error gameplay to make it much more enjoyable than that of old-school adventure games, for example. Games that allow fans to play with multiple solutions are usually the best at this,such as sandbox gamesthat encourage creativity, as well as RPGs and roguelites that allow for multiple synergies and builds.
Trial and error are inherent tothe roguelike genre, as players are generally given very little direction and must devise their own solutions to each challenge they come across. Many challenges in roguelikes require very specific solutions, while others are more open to interpretation. Regardless, knowledge is key in these games, and this can only be gained through repeatedly attempting whatever crucible is on offer.
Roguelites, on the other hand, tend to offer players some form of meta-progression between runs. This alleviates the pressure of an otherwise trial-and-error structure by ensuring that the game gets progressively easier even if the player fails to find a better solution.Hadesis one such game, and arguably one of the best examples, as it simultaneously offers players fragments of a well-crafted narrative, providing players with another incentive to keep going. As a result of its unique blend of rich storytelling, meta-progression, and roguelite action,Hadesis one of the most accessible and rewarding roguelites on the market.
This fifth installment inthe iconicMetal Gear Solidfranchiseis a well-crafted combination of action and stealth gameplay. Furthermore,Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Painmanages to make the traditionally frustrating trial-and-error gameplay of stealth games a consistently fun experience.The Phantom Paindoes this by giving the player a broad variety of options at all times, allowing players to not only create a plan of attack but adapt when it inevitably goes wrong.
Many stealth games punish players for messing up and/or getting caught out by enemies, butThe PhantomPainis arguably at its best when players have to think on their feet. Coming up with a new plan on the fly amid the chaos of guns blazing and explosions erupting is a truly unique experience that makes the error in trial-and-error a lot less frustrating. Even if they fail, players are almost guaranteed to go out with a bang.
TheHitmangames are notorious for their well-crafted, trial-and-error gameplay that rewards repetition and encourages players to replay levels, even after they’ve already succeeded. It does this primarily through its immersive-sim inspirations, which allow it to offer players a sandbox to play in within each level. Open environments packed with unique areas and possible solutions are a common occurrence inHitman’s design, and arguably a key factor in why it’s so popular, and this makes attempting levels multiple times less of a chore, and more of an opportunity to try new things.
There area variety ofHitmangameson the market, all of which do trial-and-error gameplay quite well, and everyHitmanfan has a favorite. However,Hitman: World Of Assassinationis the most recent and arguably most accessible game, and it also includes the roguelike “Freelancer” mode that emphasizesHitman’s trial-and-error gameplay even more.
Many, if not all, of FromSoftware’sDark Soulsgamesfeature trial-and-error gameplay that rewards patience and practice.Dark Soulsis a notoriously difficult game, and this is primarily due to its variety of challenging bosses and enemies that can be overwhelming for new players to overcome.
The main reason that trial-and-error exists withinDark Soulsis the way its bosses are designed. Many bosses (and enemies) in the game cannot be beaten with brute force, especially when playing with some form of melee build. As a result of this, players are forced to learn the attack patterns and timings of each boss, making trial-and-error an inherent part of the gameplay. While this trial-and-error approach to design makesDark Soulsless accessible, and many players are likely to bounce off of it, it’s arguably a key factor in what makesDark Souls(and its successors) so rewarding.
Thisheavily simulated spacesandbox has players building their rockets before (hopefully) launching them into space. However, even if players manage to get their rocket off of the launch pad, they’ll still need to learn how to operate it. Furthermore, they’ll have to learn how to break out of the atmosphere, as well as how to maneuver in space itself. There’s a lot of learning and experimentation to be done, and the game requires players to engage with its systems and pay attention as they play. To succeed requires patience and dedication, and that’s likely to throw some players off.
Thankfully, though, failing inKerbal Space Programis usually an entertaining affair. This is thanks to the game’s humorous, light-hearted tone, as well as the fact that failing usually means players get to watch a mighty explosion.
