What's Your Favorite Shooter Game?

The Shooter Game Dilemma

The year 2011 was a landmark for shooter games, with major releases like Gears of War 3, Resistance 3, Battlefield 3, Modern Warfare 3, and Star Wars: The Old Republic. Each game brought something unique to the table, making the decision even more difficult for gamers. According to the Entertainment Software Association, the video game industry generated $25.1 billion in revenue in 2010, highlighting the significant financial commitment gamers make each year (source).

The Recipe for Wallet Sickness

Imagine a recipe that combines the best elements of these top-tier games:

• One-fourth cup of Gears of War 3
• One-fourth cup of Resistance 3
• Two tablespoons of Battlefield 3
• Three sticks of Modern Warfare 3
• A dash of Star Wars: The Old Republic

Mix these ingredients until fluffy, then microwave on high for 400 hours. This concoction represents the overwhelming choice gamers faced, with so many high-quality games and limited resources to buy them all.

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

In 2011, the gaming industry saw a surge in triple-A titles, all released within a few months of each other. The economic downturn made it difficult for many to afford multiple new games. According to a report by the NPD Group, the average American gamer spent $60 on a new game in 2011 (source). With food and other essentials taking priority, gamers had to make tough choices.

The Choice-Making Process

Choosing a game can be as challenging as deciding which movie to watch. For instance, I chose Harry Potter over Captain America that year and had no regrets. When it came to selecting a game, I relied on experience, desire, and a bit of math. While all the games released in 2011 were exceptional, only one truly captured my imagination.

Factors to Consider

1. Experience: Past enjoyment and familiarity with the franchise.
2. Desire: The excitement and anticipation for the new release.
3. Value for Money: Calculating the cost per hour of gameplay.

For example, I spent 60 days (1440 hours) playing a previous iteration of my chosen game, which cost $39.99. This translates to roughly three cents per hour of gameplay, a fantastic value.

The Verdict

Based on my experiences, the value for money, and the time I had available, my choice was clear: Battlefield 3. The game’s videos, screenshots, and my love for the franchise made it the standout option. Priced at $59.99, Battlefield 3 promised to keep me engaged for years to come. While other franchises were tempting, Battlefield 3 was the best release of the year, and I was determined to be part of it.

Interesting Stats

• Battlefield 3 sold 5 million copies in its first week, making it one of the fastest-selling games in EA's history (source).
• The game featured a new Frostbite 2 engine, which significantly improved graphics and destructible environments, setting a new standard for realism in shooter games.

In conclusion, the decision to choose Battlefield 3 was driven by a combination of personal preference, financial considerations, and the game's potential for long-term enjoyment. As gamers, we often face tough choices, but with a bit of thought and analysis, we can make decisions that maximize our gaming experience.