The Role of Guiding Colors in Video Games
Of all the cyclical video game debates that emerge on social media, few spark as much passion as whether developers should be painting objects yellow. Using distinct colors to make interactable objects more noticeable isn’t a new concept, but the specific trend of using bright yellow to mark doorways, boxes, levers, ledges, and rocks has caused a backlash among some players. They argue this level of handholding diminishes the joy of discovery inherent in games.
The Case for Yellow Paint
Developers often counter this feedback by reminding players that these visual cues are a result of testers getting lost during early playtests. Ubisoft Massive, for instance, has introduced an intriguing workaround for its upcoming game, Star Wars Outlaws. The game features an “explorer mode” that turns off the “guiding color on core navigational elements,” effectively creating a yellow paint toggle. During an extended preview session, however, this mode wasn’t active, leaving me unable to fully experience its potential benefits.
Exploring Game Design Without Guiding Colors
Turning off signposts like yellow paint could lead to frustrating moments, such as jumping toward an unscalable wall and falling to one’s death. Yet, these incidents also offer valuable lessons in understanding a game’s mechanics. By learning the game’s visual language through trial and error, players can develop a richer, more engaging experience. Games like Half-Life and Portal guide players with subtle cues rather than blatant markers, offering a sense of accomplishment upon discovering key elements.
Striking a Balance in Visual Cues
Not all games handle signposting poorly; Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, for example, employs a simple yet effective visual language. Climbable surfaces are indicated by grated metal with round holes, while horizontal scratches and cracks signal wall-running areas. This approach strikes a balance between guiding players and preserving a sense of exploration. If yellow paint remains the guiding tool of choice in Star Wars Outlaws, at least the option to disable it offers a compromise that accommodates both sides of the debate.
Conclusion
As Star Wars Outlaws approaches its release on August 30, it’s encouraging to see developers experimenting with options like explorer mode. While guiding colors like yellow may streamline gameplay, it’s important to consider how they impact the overall experience. By providing options to customize visual aids, developers can cater to both those who appreciate clear guidance and those who relish the thrill of discovery.
