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Originally Posted by Anara  I think that these games (Baldur’s Gate 1 & 2) also has this so called “feel”, or in lack of a better term, atmosphere. I find it quite hard to explain really. I tend to like games where I gain the possibility to sort of immerse myself into the game universe. But just what it is that makes that immersion possible, I do not know.
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So, my question is this (with the above remarks in mind): what constitutes this so called “feel of the game”, or atmosphere, that allows us to immerse ourselves in a game like Baldur’s Gate (1 & 2)? |
Immersive games do any number of things to make us forget we are just sitting at a desk in front of a computer, execute escapism, and put us in another world. Thick atmosphere fakes out our senses. Ambient music sets a tone. Engrossing story occupies our mind. Rich artwork defines our vision. Deep characters invest our emotions. Good gameplay heightens our adrenaline. Protagonist advancement yields a sense of accomplishment. Detailed roleplaying allows a sense of ownership. When they all are working together and clicking, then viola, you got immersion.
Really good games do any number of these things well. Baldur’s Gate does them ALL well.