What do you think of encumbrance in video games?
The recent release of Larian’s Baldur’s Gate 3 and Bethesda’s Starfield has reignited a long-standing debate in the RPG community: should players be burdened with encumbrance? Both games implement a system that limits the amount of gear you can carry, leading to a familiar sense of frustration among players who prefer a more streamlined experience. While both games offer ways to increase carrying capacity, the need to manage your character’s weight limit remains a significant factor.
Encumbrance in Starfield: A Source of Contention
- In Starfield, encumbrance is a major issue for some players who are willing to sacrifice achievement progress to increase their carry limit through console commands. This has led to the creation of a popular mod on NexusMods that prevents the disabling of achievements when utilizing console commands.
- Xbox Series X and S players are unfortunately stuck with the encumbrance mechanic as console commands are unavailable on these platforms.
The Arguments For and Against Encumbrance
Encumbrance has been a staple in RPGs for years, with The Elder Scrolls and Fallout franchises employing the mechanic. While it can be annoying, there are reasons for its continued existence. Supporters argue that encumbrance adds realism, enhances the sense of immersion, and forces players to make difficult choices regarding what to carry. The resource management aspect of encumbrance can also contribute to the game’s overall strategy and depth.
Encumbrance: Beyond Realism
Beyond the argument of realism, there are practical reasons for implementing encumbrance in video games. Managing a vast inventory can be cumbersome for both players and developers. Encumbrance offers a solution by limiting the number of items displayed, making navigation through the inventory more manageable and preventing the game from becoming overwhelmed with too many assets.
A Lasting Legacy of Frustration
Despite the arguments in favor of encumbrance, many gamers find it an unnecessary annoyance. This sentiment was evident during the release of Fallout 4 in 2015, and it has persisted with the launch of Starfield. Bethesda’s decision to retain encumbrance in Starfield, despite the prevailing frustration, reflects its belief in its value as a core gameplay mechanic. Similarly, Larian’s continued commitment to encumbrance in Baldur’s Gate 3 suggests that the mechanic is here to stay in the RPG landscape.
Starfield: A World of Exploration and Discovery
Despite its controversial encumbrance system, Starfield has captivated players with its vast open world, compelling storylines, and immersive gameplay. The game has garnered over a million concurrent players since its launch, showcasing its immense popularity. Players have already begun creating custom ships, referencing iconic sci-fi vessels, and uncovering hidden easter eggs that link the game to other Bethesda titles. Speedrunners have even managed to complete the game in under three hours, highlighting the game’s depth and complexity.
Embracing the Challenges of Starfield
While encumbrance might be a source of frustration for some, it is a part of the Starfield experience. Ultimately, the decision to embrace or resist the game’s design choices rests with each individual player. Whether you find yourself constantly struggling with weight limits or relishing the strategic challenges that encumbrance presents, Starfield offers a vast and immersive experience waiting to be explored.
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