My Favourite Games
Video games have always been a major source of inspiration for me. Some have left a lasting impression not only through their worlds and stories, but also through their mechanics, level design, combat systems and the freedom they offer to players.
Among the many games I've experienced, three franchises in particular have had a significant influence on my approach to game design.
Devil May Cry
Gothic Atmosphere · Combat Design · Character Transformation · Weapon Variety
The Devil May Cry series has always fascinated me with its distinctive gothic atmosphere, dark fantasy universe and over-the-top combat.
I particularly appreciate the way the games combine fast-paced action with expressive combat systems, allowing players to develop their own fighting style through different weapons, abilities and combos.
Dante's demonic transformations are also a great example of how character progression and gameplay mechanics can reinforce each other, both visually and mechanically.
What inspires me most is the balance between player expression, combat depth and the satisfaction of mastering a complex system.
The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask
Time Manipulation · 3Cs · Exploration · NPC Behaviour · World Design
Majora's Mask is one of the most fascinating examples of world design and systemic storytelling.
The three-day cycle, controlled through the Ocarina, creates a unique gameplay structure where time becomes a central mechanic. Every action has consequences, and the player must learn to understand, anticipate and manipulate the world's routines.
The transformation masks are another aspect I particularly admire. Playing as a Hylian, Deku Scrub, Zora or Goron completely changes Link's movement, abilities and interactions with the environment. Each form offers a different approach to exploration and gameplay, making it a particularly interesting example of the 3Cs.
I'm also fascinated by the NPCs and their daily schedules. Each character follows their own routine throughout the three-day cycle, giving Clock Town a strong sense of life and creating opportunities for emergent interactions and environmental storytelling.
Majora's Mask demonstrates how mechanics, world design and narrative can work together to create a truly memorable experience.
Baldur's Gate I & II – Including Their Expansions
C-RPG · Exploration · Tactical Combat · Progression · Narrative · Player Freedom
The first two Baldur's Gate games, along with their expansions, represent some of my favourite examples of classic computer RPG design.
I love their approach to exploration, where discovering new locations, characters and quests often rewards curiosity rather than simply following a predefined path.
Their tactical combat systems encourage preparation, positioning, party composition and strategic thinking. Every encounter can require a different approach, making combat an engaging part of the overall experience.
Character progression is another major strength. Building a party, developing individual characters and experimenting with different classes, abilities and synergies creates a strong sense of ownership over the adventure.
Above all, I admire the narrative depth and freedom offered to the player. Choices, dialogue and interactions can influence the journey, while the world encourages experimentation and discovery.
For me, these games perfectly illustrate the appeal of C-RPGs: giving players the tools and freedom to create their own adventure.