A Defense of Cheating in Videogames | Game/Show | PBS Digital Studios

Summary

In this video, the concept of cheating in video games is examined from various perspectives. While cheaters are often seen as ruining the experience, they can actually push the boundaries of game design, leading to innovative strategies and higher levels of play. The video differentiates between spoilsports and cheaters, with cheaters often working within the rules to find the most effective strategies. Through examples like 'StarCraft' and 'Street Fighter,' the video explores how cheaters can improve the game and force both players and developers to adapt. Ultimately, it argues that cheating in games is not inherently bad, but can drive evolution in gameplay.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cheating in games can be seen as a good thing when it leads to better strategies and improved gameplay.
• 😀 There is a difference between 'spoilsports,' who ruin games intentionally, and 'cheaters,' who push boundaries within the rules of the game.
• 😀 Spoilsports are disruptive players who aim to destroy the game, while cheaters often develop effective strategies that enhance competition.
• 😀 According to Johan Huizinga, cheaters play to win the game, not to ruin it, which leads to evolution in game strategy.
• 😀 The concept of 'Code is Law' suggests that if a game allows a certain action (even if unintended), it is fair play.
• 😀 Cheaters are often the most effective strategists, exploiting game mechanics to their advantage, but this can push players to evolve their skills.
• 😀 Examples of game exploits like quick scoping, Zerg rushing, and canceling in 'Street Fighter 2' show how tactics once seen as cheating can become standard strategies.
• 😀 The hacking ethos within gaming suggests that uncovering flaws or shortcuts in a game can help improve its overall design and integrity.
• 😀 When cheaters emerge, they force game designers and players to reconsider and update game rules, creating a more dynamic, evolving experience.
• 😀 Cheating in games helps identify broken systems, leading both players and designers to seek the best way to play.
• 😀 The video emphasizes that the context of cheating in games is different from cheating in real life—it's about improving fun and gameplay within the 'magic circle' of games.

Q & A

What is the difference between a spoilsport and a cheater in games?

A spoilsport intentionally breaks or ignores the rules to destroy the game, such as griefing or vandalizing. A cheater, on the other hand, works within the confines of the game’s system to exploit mechanics for an advantage, without aiming to ruin the game itself.

How do different people perceive cheating in games?

There are three main perspectives: 'Purists' who avoid cheating altogether, 'Code is Law' proponents who believe anything allowed by the game’s mechanics is fair play, and 'Cheaters' who think it’s okay to cheat as long as it doesn't impact others in multiplayer.

Why is 'code is law' a controversial view on cheating?

'Code is Law' asserts that anything within the game’s code is permissible, including intentional exploits. While this allows for creative strategies, it can be controversial as it doesn’t always align with what most players consider fair or ethical gameplay.

What is the impact of cheating on game strategy and evolution?

Cheating can push the boundaries of a game’s design, leading to new strategies that were not initially considered. This can improve the overall quality of play and force designers to reevaluate and refine game mechanics.

Can you give an example of a cheat that became a recognized strategy?

Quick scoping in first-person shooters is a good example. Initially thought of as cheating, it is now recognized as a valid tactic because players exploited sniper rifles in ways that were not originally intended, pushing the limits of the game’s mechanics.

What is 'strategic collapse' in the context of cheating?

Strategic collapse, as described by Richard Garfield, occurs when one strategy becomes so dominant that nearly all players use it. This can negatively impact the game’s diversity and fun, forcing designers to adjust to prevent the game from becoming stale.

How does cheating affect multiplayer games differently from single-player games?

In multiplayer games, cheating can disrupt the balance and fairness for others, leading to frustration and unfair advantages. In single-player games, however, cheating often leads to creative, personal achievements that do not harm others.

What role does cheating play in the relationship between players and game designers?

Cheating acts as feedback for designers by highlighting flaws in the game’s mechanics or balance. It challenges designers to update and refine the game to maintain competitiveness and fairness, pushing games toward a more polished and enjoyable experience.

Why do some people argue that cheating can make games better?

Cheating can improve games by forcing players and designers to confront broken systems, rethink strategies, and adapt to new tactics. This continuous cycle of innovation leads to better and more engaging gameplay for everyone.

What does 'the magic circle' refer to in the context of games?

'The magic circle' is a term coined by Eric Zimmerman and Katie Salen, referring to the boundaries of play in games. It represents the environment where the rules are meant to evolve and where actions like cheating can be seen as part of pushing the game toward a more perfect state of fun.