Fallout dev Tim Cain says we should pay more attention to bad games: ‘[Publishers] often don’t learn from failure because they only look at the games that sold well’

In a recent video, Tim Cain, the co-creator of the iconic Fallout series, shared some unconventional wisdom that could resonate with both industry veterans and casual gamers alike. He emphasized the often-overlooked value of analyzing unsuccessful video games, suggesting that there is much to learn from their shortcomings.

Insights from the Unsuccessful

Cain pointed out that while many might dismiss games that failed to make a mark—like the infamous Leisure Suit Larry: Magna Cum Laude—there exists a wealth of knowledge in the “many” titles that simply faded into obscurity after their release. He highlighted the importance of examining these games to uncover the reasons behind their lack of success.

According to Cain, understanding the traits that contribute to a game’s failure can be just as enlightening as studying those that lead to success. He referred to this concept as survivorship bias, urging developers and publishers to not only focus on the elements that make games popular but also to scrutinize the features that are common among those that did not resonate with players.

“If you can’t tell the good from the bad in a good game,” Cain noted, “you will possibly miss out on why they are successful.” This observation underscores a critical aspect of game design: not every feature of a successful game holds equal weight in its overall appeal. He pointed out that many beloved titles have been plagued by issues such as low frame rates, poor user interfaces, and even bugs that cause crashes.

By taking the time to delve into the mechanics and design choices of less successful games, creators can cultivate a deeper understanding of what truly makes a game enjoyable. Cain’s perspective invites a more nuanced approach to game development, one that values learning from failures as much as celebrating successes.