A Successful Christian Game

[peanutbutter12]

It was probably Left Behind that he saw on the shelf.

My thoughts exactly as I've not seen any other Christian games in EB. I've not checked, but I'm pretty sure the sales of that game are very minimal. It's not one I can see having a lot of movement from the shelves. Heck, most of the Christian gaming sites even disowned the game cause of it's controversial content, from all reports.

CJ

 

[Dannager]

My thoughts exactly as I've not seen any other Christian games in EB. I've not checked, but I'm pretty sure the sales of that game are very minimal. It's not one I can see having a lot of movement from the shelves. Heck, most of the Christian gaming sites even disowned the game cause of it's controversial content, from all reports.

CJ

From an article on the Left Behind video game:

Frichner said more than 10,000 retailers -- including Sam's Club, Target, Best Buy, Circuit City, GameStop, EB Games and various Christian stores -- offer the game. He said sales are terrific, though he wouldn't reveal figures.

I wonder why he wouldn't disclose figures if the sales have been so fantastic.

 

[Zecryphon]

From an article on the Left Behind video game:

I wonder why he wouldn't disclose figures if the sales have been so fantastic.

Because the sale figures were probably great for a Christian game but by mainstream gaming standards the game is probably considered to have tanked.

 

[Sketcher]

I never played Requiem so I can't tell you where they may have gone wrong in their presentation. The Prophecy Trilogy was very good, so where did the creators of Requiem go wrong? Granted we're talking about two different mediums, film and computer games.

I never played it either, but I remember when it came out. Here's Gamespot's take on it.

http://www.gamespot.com/pc/action/r...t=convert&om_clk=gssummary&tag=summary;review

And a Christian perspective:

http://www.christiangaming.com/Reviews/XRequiem.shtml

 

[Digit]

I'm almost thinking that it is too difficult to fit Christian morals to the current day videogame standard. It would have to be something inspired like REZ, and then you run the risk of many people just not getting it. >_>

I enjoyed Requiem a lot, it was quite difficult if I recall, and there were some truly awesome levels. I particularly recall the one plastered with graffiti, it was so colourful. Really nice action too, I particularly liked the salt power.

See, that has some quite interesting takes on things. It's a pity that creating games is such a risky business, and there isn't more room for innovation and originality. I recall reading something from EA a while back saying that in their business model, they do about 10 titles that are rehashes or existing concepts with new eyecandy, and then one original title. >_>

Currently I am looking into Fahrenheit , as it told a great story and that sort of gameplay style worked very well in that game. It would be easy(ish) to merge a Christian story to those gameplay mechanics and keep it interesting. Commercially successful? I dunno, anyone recall how well Fahrenheit did?

Digit

 

[infaile]

I've been thinking a bit about this issue recently (am Digit's fiancee) and just had a thought...

Christianity offends. It offends because it is true in a world that despises truth; it demands change in a society that clings to its sins; it is black and white, absolute, when everyone else is lurking in the grey.

In light of that - portraying Christianity in a meaningful, non-blasphemous, strong way would be nigh on impossible without offending someone, or a lot of someones, or even everyone.

Not even counting the controversial factor of it being portrayed in a game, and games having their own standards and drawcards, mostly non-Christian in nature, etc...

A final thought: Christianity, in real life, is not a game. It is hard work; it is not meant to be entertaining. Translating it into an entertaining context...? Which parts of the message will you lose? Which parts do you think you can AFFORD to lose, and still have it be a Christian message, or THE Christian message?

There have been some good ideas laid out in this thread, the above points are just things to consider.

Personally, I would love to support a Christian game that doesn't compromise and yet appeals. Whilst most would say that those two points are irreconcilable... think about this.

Christianity DOES have an appeal that nothing else in this world does - the hope of Christ, the offer of redemption. It has drawn non-believers from all over the globe, all through the centuries, and I do not hesitate to say that this state of affairs will continue. Christ compels, He ATTRACTS. There is a definite 'draw', but the question is how to portray that 'draw' factor in a way that doesn't lose the message and yet sparks interest?

I do not think it is impossible; merely that it is very, very difficult. And whoever undertakes such a task will have to work out right from the start what their measure of success will be; what kind of response they're looking from (Christian or otherwise); and the key elements of the message that will NEVER be compromised... the latter has to be strong enough that if legalities force you to take one of those key elements out, you ditch the game. Period.

A hard stance to take.

 

[The-Doctor]

In terms of non violent games I would have to say "SOS", you just have to survive...no shooting no killing just helping others to survive and getting things like food and water to get through an earthquake

There is also the sims and similar games

 

[Dannager]

A final thought: Christianity, in real life, is not a game. It is hard work; it is not meant to be entertaining. Translating it into an entertaining context...? Which parts of the message will you lose? Which parts do you think you can AFFORD to lose, and still have it be a Christian message, or THE Christian message?

War isn't a game in real life either. It's hard work and isn't meant to be entertaining (at least, not in the field). But that hasn't prevented games from depicting wars, and they've been very entertaining.

 

[Windlord]

A Christian Myst might work.

Peace,

Windlord.

 

[Psalms34]

A Christian Myst might work.

Peace,

Windlord.

You mean a puzzle adventure?
Yep, I've been kicking around some code for one, their pretty fun to play and a pretty nice artistic challenge to make.

 

[Macewindu77815]

I think you run into a problem trying to define a "christian" game. It's like trying to define Christian music, someone is never going to agree with your definition fo what you believe to be a great game or music. That being said, I think a game that is made well and is relatively clean, worldly speaking(because Christians are far too uptight about blood, violence, and slight swearing), and conveys a message of something beyond this life would be very well received. I'm talking about taking a game and giving it a story that isn't directly related to Christianity on Earth, but hints at the truth to be found on Earth. Sorta like a Pilgrim's Progress type story, yet without the extreme obviousness of its metaphors. If one could make a story like C.S. Lewis and The Chronicles Of Narnia, and place that in a well orchestrated, competent package I think it would do well.

 

[Zecryphon]

You mean a puzzle adventure?
Yep, I've been kicking around some code for one, their pretty fun to play and a pretty nice artistic challenge to make.

I'd be interested in playing a game like that. I loved Myst and it's subsequent sequels. I think there might be one theological obstacle that could perhaps pose a problem though, with a puzzle adventure and that is the teaching in Christianity that states, we are saved by grace and not works. Puzzle adventures always require you to do something in order to receive some type of reward, like gaining a clue to a puzzle or advancing in the game. That outcome runs counter to Christian theology. Just a thought that occured to me. Good luck with it.

 

[Stanged]

Digit, I understand your design dillemma. I myself am a game designer, without the priviledges you have to be in a company and actually have a chance of your ideas to be brought to fruition. My philosophy for the game industry is to make games that are morally and religiously neutral, that offend no one. And as a Christian company, a good portion of the money made from the game's sales (even subscriptions if you create a MMORPG) would be given back to the Kingdom of God.

In my opinion, video games can not be a medium for ministry. When they try to be, it doesn't work. I believe that is the job of music, movies, and literature. But, video games can be used to back other ministries financially, and to help change this industry by offering amazing gameplay, without all the negative influences, such as skimpy clothing designs for female characters, the glorification of drugs and alcohol, unwarranted violence (against innocents, but when it is needed, make it as realistic as it can be. Come on, David chopped off Goliath's head!), and occult references, etc.

That is when my design focus shifted to make games that are clean, yet action packed, and have the possibility of the largest market possible, without offending certain religions. Be a part of the transfer of wealth, from the wicked, to the righteous, by entertaining them without compromise.

Digit, I have a couple of very elaborate game designs, one is sci-fi, post-apocalyptic, and one is fantasy (kind of tolkienish, but no elves, orcs and dwarves). Perhaps there is some way I could work together with you and your studio.

 

[Psalms34]

I'd be interested in playing a game like that. I loved Myst and it's subsequent sequels. I think there might be one theological obstacle that could perhaps pose a problem though, with a puzzle adventure and that is the teaching in Christianity that states, we are saved by grace and not works. Puzzle adventures always require you to do something in order to receive some type of reward, like gaining a clue to a puzzle or advancing in the game. That outcome runs counter to Christian theology. Just a thought that occured to me. Good luck with it.

That’s a pretty puzzling statement, I don’t see how you could come up with such a conclusion. Hehe I just don’t see the solving of puzzles to be counter to Christian theology. So lets say that there was a beautifully made bible locked in a case, but the way to open the case required you to find clues and unravel sequences in the world which ultimately would unlock the case, that would be counter Christian? Then when you opened the beautiful bible you turn to a page with a highlighted passage which gives a clue to another puzzle. Use a little imagination beyond that.

Anyway, I didn’t say I was going to make such a game, I already have a game project and that takes priority. Not only my own project but I’m freelancing part-time on another project for yet another six more months as a 3D artist, so considering such a project is out of reach for me at this time. But thanks for the “good luck” comment anyway.

 

[Digit]

Digit, I understand your design dillemma. I myself am a game designer, without the priviledges you have to be in a company and actually have a chance of your ideas to be brought to fruition. My philosophy for the game industry is to make games that are morally and religiously neutral, that offend no one. And as a Christian company, a good portion of the money made from the game's sales (even subscriptions if you create a MMORPG) would be given back to the Kingdom of God.

In my opinion, video games can not be a medium for ministry. When they try to be, it doesn't work. I believe that is the job of music, movies, and literature. But, video games can be used to back other ministries financially, and to help change this industry by offering amazing gameplay, without all the negative influences, such as skimpy clothing designs for female characters, the glorification of drugs and alcohol, unwarranted violence (against innocents, but when it is needed, make it as realistic as it can be. Come on, David chopped off Goliath's head!), and occult references, etc.

That is when my design focus shifted to make games that are clean, yet action packed, and have the possibility of the largest market possible, without offending certain religions. Be a part of the transfer of wealth, from the wicked, to the righteous, by entertaining them without compromise.

Digit, I have a couple of very elaborate game designs, one is sci-fi, post-apocalyptic, and one is fantasy (kind of tolkienish, but no elves, orcs and dwarves). Perhaps there is some way I could work together with you and your studio.

Heya Stanged,

I think you have some really good approaches there, unfortunately my studio will never make something like this. I am one of two Christians in a company of a hundred people. >_> We tend to focus on violent games unfortunately.

This thread was more just about Christian game ideas, which would be accepted by secular gamers too. Just gathering ideas and input really. I haven't otuched my game design document for aaages, but maybe soon I will take a looksy. A pity I suck at artwork.

Digit

 

[Theogonia]

Yeah I hear what you are saying. That is my take on it too. The thing is, many of the Biblical stories are epic in scope, with some of the most amazing miracles ever. Surely there must be a way to wind a game around some of those, that would appeal to both sides.

I mean, what is at the root of non-believers not liking Christian games. Because they think it isn't true? Well, GTA isn't true either... why do they like that?

Digit

The problem is not that the game is christian, but that christian games are always of much lower quality than regular games.

So that is why I avoid christian games like the plague, because of the quality and not because of the ideas.

Also, another turn off would be that christians simply have no idea about how to present their beliefs without preaching.

 

[Theogonia]

I'd be interested in playing a game like that. I loved Myst and it's subsequent sequels. I think there might be one theological obstacle that could perhaps pose a problem though, with a puzzle adventure and that is the teaching in Christianity that states, we are saved by grace and not works. Puzzle adventures always require you to do something in order to receive some type of reward, like gaining a clue to a puzzle or advancing in the game. That outcome runs counter to Christian theology. Just a thought that occured to me. Good luck with it.

Who the hell cares? That is life. You get rewards by working.

That may or may not be the case with God, but that's the way it is in life. So that kind of arguement would make absolutely no sense.

Digit, I understand your design dillemma. I myself am a game designer, without the priviledges you have to be in a company and actually have a chance of your ideas to be brought to fruition. My philosophy for the game industry is to make games that are morally and religiously neutral, that offend no one. And as a Christian company, a good portion of the money made from the game's sales (even subscriptions if you create a MMORPG) would be given back to the Kingdom of God.

I don't think there's any way a game can be morally neutral. :\

In my opinion, video games can not be a medium for ministry.

I agree.

I believe that is the job of music, movies, and literature.

I disagree. Ministry should be left out of entertainment period.

But, video games can be used to back other ministries financially, and to help change this industry by offering amazing gameplay, without all the negative influences, such as skimpy clothing designs for female characters, the glorification of drugs and alcohol, unwarranted violence (against innocents, but when it is needed, make it as realistic as it can be. Come on, David chopped off Goliath's head!), and occult references, etc.

Explain how those influences are negative in the realm of a digital gameworld. Some of them aren't even negative in life (E.g. "immodest" dressing).

That is when my design focus shifted to make games that are clean, yet action packed, and have the possibility of the largest market possible, without offending certain religions. Be a part of the transfer of wealth, from the wicked, to the righteous, by entertaining them without compromise.

So now game designers are wicked? And church organizations are righteous?

When did everything become so black and white?

You also seem to be contradicting yourself, if the game is to have realistic violence, that's far from being "clean".

Digit, I have a couple of very elaborate game designs, one is sci-fi, post-apocalyptic, and one is fantasy (kind of tolkienish, but no elves, orcs and dwarves). Perhaps there is some way I could work together with you and your studio.

Why are there no elves or dwarves? Is it just preference or does it revolve around some more twisted "godly" logic?

 

[Stanged]

Alright... way too many points to reply to individually, ScottyL. I have no idea what your denomination may believe. But, the jist of my argument is that so many more games these days have content in them that I believe grieves the Holy Spirit, who is my "moral compass". God of War appeared to be an incredibly well done game, but, the nudity and sexual situations kept me from playing it. Is there any reason we really need to see that going on? I mean, can't we just do the good old "we see them going into the bedroom, but we are stopped by a closed door... skip to next scene" trick? If people want to see people have sex, they should watch some pornography, we don't need it mixed into our video games.

Anyways, I got off into a little rant there... But what the heck, here's a little bit more... Please, no more of the "If we have realistic violence, then why not everything else?". That's like saying a porn star and a soldier are both sinning with what they do best. I do not mind explosive, warfare violence. I do mind, however, the sick, sadistic, torture and mutilatory violence to the innocent and helpless, and I feel the Holy Spirit's grieving in my heart. This is why I want realistic violence in my video game designs, but tastefully done. Anything can be done excessively, though certain things for me should not be tolerated, like pornographic (even soft-core) nudity, and graphic sexual situations.

Anyways, Digit, I don't see why your company would refuse my ideas, they are by no means sanitized, violence-free games, in fact, I would like the violence to be as real as possible. But I doubt they would agree with my ideas of how much of the finances would be given to ministries, and not just for the hedonism that many game developers indulge themselves in.

I think I've learned that this isn't the best place to do networking to find Christian game developers looking for a project. Time for a lot of fasting, prayer, and see where God will take me next.

Peace

 

[Theogonia]

Alright... way too many points to reply to individually, ScottyL. I have no idea what your denomination may believe. But, the jist of my argument is that so many more games these days have content in them that I believe grieves the Holy Spirit, who is my "moral compass".

Well if it bothers you then you should stay away from it. As long as you are not making a blanket statement saying it's wrong for everyone.

 

[Stanged]

Well if it bothers you then you should stay away from it. As long as you are not making a blanket statement saying it's wrong for everyone.

There's no way I can decide anyone's morals for them, but instead, I want to make a game that doesn't have to have things that may offend some people, besides action, which requires violence, but I'm talking about violence seen in Teen rated video games, although limbs flying off, etc can be done if the characters involved in violence are robotic or non-organic. One of my game designs fits right around that idea. Hyper-realistic violence, without anyone organic being harmed.