10 Flaws That Stopped Video Games From Being Perfect

9. Poor Combat - Planescape: Torment

Witcher 3 Horse
Black Isle Studios

In terms of story, character development, and voice-acting, Planescape: Torment was lightyears ahead of other RPGs at the time. Black Isle Studios put so much effort in the thought-provoking narrative and how each choice effected the gameplay, this underrated gem holds up by today's standards.

However, the developers neglected one aspect which is critical in role-players: the combat. Although Torment emphasises wisdom is a far greater weapon than blunt force, this notion doesn't justify the game's inadequate fighting mechanics.

Due to the imbalanced and tactless battle system, players rarely have to rely on any strategy more advanced than wailing on enemies with their strongest attack. The animations during each brawl lack flair and impact, making every hit look unappealing. The controls during these sequences are imprecise and unresponsive, so players can miss their target, even when they strike from point-blank range.

What's more bizarre is Black Isles had already proved capable of formulating an efficient battle system, since they published Baldur's Gate the previous year. Because the combat in BG was perfectly solid, it's perplexing why the developers couldn't recreate the magic for Torment.

Contributor

James Egan has been with Whatculture for five years and prominently works on Horror, Film, and Video Games. He's written over 80 books including 1000 Facts about Horror Movies Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about The Greatest Films Ever Made Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about Video Games Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts About James Bond 1000 Facts About TV Shows