A reader is frustrated at video game companies inability to keep a secret and is worried its ruined the fun of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Video game leaks are as old as the Internet. There are always a few games a year that mistakenly print an overly descriptive job ad, foolishly trust the Korean age rating board with their secrets, or fail to stop Walmart from letting slip their plans before they were supposed to.
Mistakes happen and usually its all part of being a game fan. But things have got totally out of control in the last couple of years, to the point where I dont think a single major game hasnt had something important leaked about it long before its out – or in many cases even before its been announced. Even the super secretive Rockstar had maps and other details for Red Dead Redemption II leak out early. While fellow hermits Nintendo have fallen foul of numerous leaks recently.
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Its the most recent one that is the straw thats broken my back though – what seems to be a leak of the entire line-up for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, probably only weeks ahead of an official reveal. Now, it could be a fake – the characters themselves do seem rather unbelievable – but that almost doesnt matter.
Either all the surprises have been spoilt or its a massive hoax by people for whos mental health I would have severe concerns. Its always Nintendo fans that are the most obsessive and I thought 3D printing a fake mock-up of the Switch was as extreme as things would ever get. But the backstory to this one (read it here in GCs write-up) is so complicated that if it is fake its almost scary how much effort was put into it.
Leaks, and fake leaks, seem to be caught in some sort of escalating arms race and whatever happens next is bound to be even more crazy. The end result though is all very depressing, even if you dont think about the people behind it. Either one of the best secrets of the year has been spoiled or people are going to go into the Nintendo Direct, whenever it is, and be actively disappointed if it doesnt show whats in the leak.
A game reveal used to be one of the most exciting moments as a gamer but now, instead of a big song and dance light show, we just get dribs and drabs of bland information – a name here, a description there, or a vague bit of artwork or an ambiguous comment from a voice actor.
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Can I just ask all publishers to please try and keep your staff under control and make them keep a secret? A lot of it does seem to be accident, with what youd think would be computer savvy people constantly making basic errors on social media and things like online CVs.
Games are entertainment but the whole razzmatazz around them is, or at least should be, as well. I want to be surprised and excited next time I hear a bit of important games news. I want the first thought that goes through my mind to be, Thats amazing! I never wouldve expected that!. Not, Oh, the rumour was right or I wish I hadnt known about that already.
By reader The Fragrant Chef
The readers feature does not necessary represent the views of GameCentral or Metro.
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