10 Amazing Video Games That Are TERRIBLE To Play

By Jordan Rylins / May 14, 2020

There’s a delicate balance between the different aspects of a video game, all adding up to one final product.

Sure, some could argue that gameplay is king and should be prioritised at all costs, but in the current landscape of experimental, artistic and stylistic video games, that isn’t always the case. Other aspects, such as a great story, captivating writing, interesting characters, an engaging world or even the atmosphere, can play just as big a part of any video game as the gameplay itself.

Don’t believe me?

Well, this list will look at great video games that were let down by their gameplay. Do bear in mind two things, though:

Firstly, we're not necessarily talking about masterpieces. The gameplay in these titles stopped them being something more than great; something perfect.

Secondly, each game on our list has the potential to be enjoyed by almost everyone, though, there is one glaring exception we’ll come to later on.

Ultimately, it’s a balancing act between the active and passive content the game offers, and sometimes, when shooting countless baddies can get tiresome, the plot points and twist at the end can reel you back in.

Others though... it just stays tiresome.

10. Alan Wake

Alan Wake, developed by Remedy Entertainment, who also released last year’s Control, is based around a writer struggling with insomnia, paranoia and demons.

The game hinges on its eerie atmosphere, narrated by Alan himself who ends up in all sorts of weird, frightening scenarios due to his sleep deprivation. However, what lets the game down is the repetitive gameplay of shining a light to pacify enemies, as only then can you shoot them.

You’ll go from wielding a pocket torch to a security flashlight, to some giant a** handheld spotlight, switching between single-action weapons. Yet, most of the time, you'll find yourself trying to avoid as many enemies as possible in order to quickly get to a new checkpoint.

This becomes even more tedious when searching for collectibles or going for achievements, as the way forward is often locked off until all enemies are dead.

Beyond repetitive, flashlight-shining gameplay, Alan Wake boasts some interesting characters and genuinely funny dialogue to help blanket the issues. As well as really cool set-pieces and environments that ramp up as the paranoia deepens.