In today’s gaming landscape, video games demand an immense time commitment, setting them apart from other forms of entertainment such as television shows, which typically unfold across multiple seasons. Many modern games require players to invest 30 to 60 hours or more to fully experience their stories, mechanics, and worlds. Unfortunately, this can deter some players from engaging with critically acclaimed titles. For many, the journey to discovering a beloved game can be fraught with initial challenges, including tedious openings, lackluster narratives, or complicated systems that can feel overwhelming.
In this article, we’ll delve into a selection of games that may prove difficult to immerse oneself in initially, yet ultimately reward players for their perseverance. Let’s explore these titles and the unique hurdles they present, along with the rewarding experiences that lie beneath the surface.
10. Warhammer 40, 000: Rogue Trader
Baptism by Fire
As a newcomer to the Warhammer universe, I found Warhammer 40k: Rogue Trader to be both exhilarating and daunting. The game plunges you into a world steeped in lore without easing you into its complexities. Right from the start, terms like “God Emperor”and “Psykers”bombard you, leaving little room for newcomers to acclimate. While a built-in dialogue feature helps define jargon, the game thrusts you into a position of significant power almost immediately, amplifying the steep learning curve.
The dialog is extensive yet thoughtfully crafted, making it easier to digest in time. Though I set the game down multiple times in the early stages, once I had assembled a strong team and the narrative truly began, I found myself captivated. It soon became clear that Rogue Trader stands as one of the most innovative and engaging CRPGs released in recent memory.
9. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Overwhelming World
The Witcher 3 marks a significant milestone in gaming history, offering players an expansive world filled with quests and side activities. However, the vastness can feel overwhelming, particularly after the prologue set in White Orchard. Once players enter Velen, they are faced with an almost dizzying array of choices and a sense of aimlessness that can be disconcerting.
During my first attempt to play, I found myself disengaged after about eight hours as I struggled to connect with the narrative. It wasn’t until much later, spurred by the game’s widespread acclaim, that I returned to embrace the story and intricate lore. This is a game that demands full immersion, and once you commit, you’re sure to find an unparalleled journey.
8. Divinity: Original Sin 2
The Revival of a Genre
Having not been a fan of CRPGs before 2017, I was drawn to Divinity: Original Sin 2 due to its initial ship segment, which was compelling. However, after reaching Fort Joy, I found myself overwhelmed: shackled, underpowered, and without clear guidance on my objectives. It was then that I realized the game’s open-ended nature allowed for a multitude of possibilities.
When I returned after a brief hiatus, I was determined to explore different routes. I ended up robbing merchants, defeating powerful foes, and shaping my own adventure on the island. This newfound freedom transformed my experience and solidified the game as a modern classic.
7. Final Fantasy XV
Let the Fantasy Come To Life
As an avid Final Fantasy fan, the announcement of Final Fantasy XV filled me with anticipation. However, the initial hours left me confused as I navigated a road trip narrative intertwined with mundane tasks. Initially disenchanted, I put the game aside until the release of the Royal Edition triggered another attempt.
Once I pushed past the early hurdles, the plot began to unfold with epic battles, beloved summons, and rich music that made me feel at home in the Final Fantasy universe. The added features and character perspectives enriched the gameplay, solidifying its unique place within the franchise.
6. Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Getting Past the Tutorials
As a fan of the original Xenoblade Chronicles, I was thrilled when the sequel released in 2017; however, the barrage of tutorials in the opening hours proved to be a daunting barrier. After experiencing nearly 30 tutorials within a short timeframe, I initially decided to set the game down.
Yet, revisiting the game years later opened my eyes to its potential. After pushing through the early sections, I discovered an engrossing combat system, powerful party customization, and a gripping story that made the effort worthwhile. The rewards truly outweighed the frustrations.
5. Horizon Zero Dawn
Uncovering the Past
From the moment you enter Horizon Zero Dawn, you are greeted by stunning visuals and a captivating premise. However, the game’s early narrative lacks the pizzazz that would eventually draw me in. I initially dismissed it as just another title in the vast gaming sea until I encountered massive robotic dinosaurs, prompting a realization of the game’s true potential.
This moment marked the turning point; it was followed by thrilling battles and a richly woven story intertwined with the game’s deep lore. The initial distance created by slow pacing vanished, revealing a narrative that captivates.
4. Bloodborne
Another Souls Game?
As a fan of the Soulsborne series, diving into Bloodborne was initially uninviting due to its disorienting beginning. The lack of direction and the pressure of survival, coupled with the limited healing resources, led me to abandon the game early on before even facing the Cleric Beast.
Months later, searching for something to play, I decided to give it another shot. Once I overcame the initial barriers, I found myself immersed in rich environments, challenging foes, and a narrative that unfolded beautifully as I progressed. Bloodborne offers depth and intrigue that unfold outside the confines of its early hours.
3. Darkest Dungeon
This Game Hates You, But You Have to Love It
Darkest Dungeon is notorious for its punishing gameplay that can quickly dissuade players. After investing time into leveling a team, losing them to misfortunes can feel disheartening. However, despite the frustrations that arise, I felt compelled to delve deeper into the nightmarish landscapes of the game.
The eerie atmosphere and daunting challenges kept drawing me back, leading to moments filled with euphoric triumph upon defeating formidable bosses. This sense of accomplishment is unparalleled, transforming what initially feels like despair into a powerful badge of honor.
2. Kingdom Come: Deliverance
Welcome to Ancient Bohemia, You Suck
Kingdom Come: Deliverance presents players with an especially challenging introduction, characterized by a plodding pace and frustrating combat mechanics. In the early stages, the main character, Henry, feels incredibly ineffective, heavily discouraging any attempts to engage with the game’s early encounters.
However, returning to the game was pivotal; it became evident that mastering swordplay was essential for survival. As I trained and improved, the narrative depth and combat mechanics gradually revealed themselves, delivering one of the most compelling RPG experiences around.
1. Persona 5
Chores the Game
Persona 5 is renowned as a classic, yet I struggled with the first couple of hours, feeling stuck in banal tasks that dulled my interest. The mundane responsibilities of a Japanese high school student left me perplexed as to why the game received such acclaim.
Years later, intrigued by the release of Persona 5: Royal, I gave the game another chance. It was then that I was able to appreciate the intricate boss battles, in-depth systems, and engaging storytelling that unfold after the initial chapters. While the start can feel overwhelming, the payoff of diving deeper reveals a rich tapestry of character growth and strategic gameplay that’s difficult to forget.
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