Why ‘Perfect’ Games Can Be Boring: A Developer’s Take on Embracing Flaws

Ever played a game that wasn’t exactly polished to perfection, maybe had a few quirky mechanics or some odd dialogue, but you absolutely loved it anyway? What if we told you that, according to a celebrated game developer, those very imperfections are what make a game truly special and unforgettable?

Guillaume Broche, the brilliant mind behind the critically acclaimed RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, has stirred up some interesting thoughts. His game snagged multiple awards last year, yet Broche openly admits it’s full of “imperfections” that he believes add to its unique charm. He’s got a fascinating theory: games that strive for absolute perfection often end up being, well, pretty boring.

Broche draws a parallel to people. Think about it: someone who tries too hard to be flawless can sometimes feel a bit… lacking in personality. But someone who embraces their quirks, their slightly weird side, those are often the most interesting and endearing individuals. He applies this same logic to game design.

He points to classics like the original Devil May Cry as a prime example. Broche calls it “a bit of a mess,” referencing Dante’s love interest, Trish, who eerily resembles his own mother, and the protagonist’s famously cheesy one-liners. Yet, these very quirks are what make the game so beloved and memorable. “You see their flaws, and you think to yourself, ‘Yeah, it’s lame, but I don’t care,'” he shares, highlighting how these imperfections create a deeper connection with players.

So, what about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 itself? Despite its GOTY status, Broche is quick to list its own “quirks.” He mentions “unbearable” mini-games, the possibility of players becoming “absurdly strong in Act 3,” and how some might speed through the game and miss a chunk of content. But did the developers fret over these? Not at all! Their reaction was simply, “‘Who cares? It’s just funny. That’s what we love about it.'” For them, these “imperfections are part of the charm.”

It’s a refreshing perspective in an industry often chasing graphical fidelity and bug-free launches. Broche’s philosophy suggests that a game’s soul often lies in its rough edges, the parts that weren’t smoothed out for mass appeal, but rather kept because they gave the game a distinct identity. And looking ahead, Broche isn’t worried if his next project doesn’t achieve the same level of popularity. His focus remains on doing what he loves, embracing those creative quirks along the way.