Developer Speaks Out About Tacked On Multiplayer

The Verge posted an article recently in discussion with the developers behind Spec Ops: The Line, a third person shooter that focuses more on story, covering the grey moral areas when fighting on the battlefield. It's an interesting read for the sake that the developers' passion for creating something new is palpable. But the main reason to bring up this article, is the candid commentary one team member had in regards to the multiplayer mode of Spec Ops: The Line.

The Lead Designer for the game, Cory Davis, expressed his dissatisfaction with the inclusion of a multiplayer mode. In short, he stated that it felt like a removed product being tacked on bringing an appeal to competitive multiplayer fans. This made it seem as if the poorly executed multiplayer mode bore a hindrance to the overall package.

Personally, I'm glad to see a developer bring this up publicly. While a multiplayer mode may be a key asset in strengthening a game experience, it is by no means a required inclusion for every video game. I would like to see publishers embrace this idea when making decisions about future products. Unfortunately, seeing how games with a vast multiplayer experience are still the top dogs, this change will come about slowly.

What are your thoughts on games that do not include an online multiplayer component? Do you feel that it sways your decision when choosing your next game purchase? Head on over to the forums to cast your vote on our Force Feed poll, and discuss the reasoning behind your choice.