Please support Game Informer. Print magazine subscriptions are less than $2 per issue

X
reader discussion

Reader Discussion: Does A Progression System Make For Better Multiplayer Experiences?

by Mike Futter on Oct 29, 2013 at 12:28 PM

In this morning’s Reader Discussion, we asked if you typically play single-player or multiplayer modes first. The answers were very informative, and we'd like to share some with you.

I always play single player first. It's like a build up to finally starting multiplayer. I'm interested in the story and then multiplayer is like meeting up with people who enjoy the game as well. - robtw007

I'm a campaign junkie.  The single player campaign is the main force behind my video game purchases.  It's not that I don't enjoy online multiplayer, I guess I'm just from the old school when the single player reigned supreme.  - vertigobleak

I usually try out multiplayer so that I don't have to go through the tutorial...then I play the single player after failing miserably. - Spartacus

I rarely play single player.  I have more fun with my friends. - randyschmitt

Depends on the game really. In a game like Mass Effect 3 or Red Dead Redemption I play the single player campaign first but in Battlefield 3 I went straight to multi-player and did, maybe, three levels of the single player game before I got bored and went back to MP. - Jeff Kaos

Looking at the comments, many of our readers start off with the single-player before diving into the online conflict. Some like to tune up their skills, and others want to be sure to avoid spoilers from online opponents. With that in mind, we turn to our second question of the day.

This generation saw a monumental shift in how we approach multiplayer gaming. Call of Duty, Battlefield, and Assassin’s Creed are among the franchises that implemented a progression system tied to abilities and weapons. On the other side, Halo, Gears of War, and most fighting and sports games kept access even across players.

Do you think that one way is better? If so, which do you prefer?