Side-Quest 203. Where Even Am I?

Hello, and welcome to another episode of Talk This! It’s Dangerous to Podcast Alone. This week, we’re talking about navigating in video games from mini maps to weenies. Sorry for the bad audio on Emma’s end this time! It’ll be worked out.

As always, you can listen to our podcast basically anywhere. Check it out on Apple PodcastsYouTubeSpotify, or Pandora (or head over to our episodes page for even more options). Or just listen below!

The Topic

Screenshot from Firewatch showing the compass and the map

What makes navigation fun in games? What makes navigation not so fun in games? How can the level design either contribute to or guard against the feeling of getting lost? Does anyone actually like to get lost, in games or in real life? Why don’t I know how topography works on a map?

The Actual Discussion

Screenshot of the main character from Death Stranding walking

We talk about the different roles that navigation can play in a game and whether obvious signposting is always a bad thing or not. We go through tools such as waypoints, mini-maps, compasses, and more that a game can use to help a player orient themselves. And, yes, we touch briefly on yellow paint. But, more importantly, also on accessibility features.

Enjoy the episode! Tell us what you think in the comments or on social media. Make sure to check out last week’s episode and look forward to next week’s where we’re talking about Mario Party and Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes.

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