[nosideeffects]

I agree. It uses the term "tech" in the article and fails to mention everything that isn't graphics related. Even if you decide as a game maker to forgo 3D for whatever reason, you still have REAL technical limitations when it comes to the game mechanics. Physics, AI, and Feature X can cost just as much processing power as some fancy 3D graphics, regardless of whether it is realtime or not. Major game makers already know this fact, and that is why optimization of the tech isn't optional: not doing so means there is a lot less you can actually do.

[pgeorgi]

The author tells a story about being a graphic developer, so that's probably the reason for focussing on graphics.

Telling the AI people that their efforts are wasted on an arms race with little effect on the game play is a much weaker argument than 'hey, I need to revisit what _I_ am working on'.

[lloeki]

Re AI I was just recently thinking about Half-Life 1 marines AI (low tech, required hint nodes) against which I definitely had memorable experience, compared to the slew of titles that followed, with "improved" AI that looks like a game of whack a mole alternating with scripted sequences.

Guess what? I booted HL1, and that wasn't just nostalgia tinted memory. Smartly applied low tech produces fantastic results in the proper hands.

[Crito]

Something that kills me today is many modern games still have worse facial animations than Half-Life 2.

[jsnell]

I don't think the article makes that mistake, there are plenty of non-graphics examples: AI / simulation of thousands or RTS units, motion controls, companion apps.

[nosideeffects]

Two lines out of the entire article mention those. I would not exactly call that "plenty of non-graphics examples". There are many more CPU intensive processes besides just those that result in real technical challenges, as well. My point is that since the article doesn't do them justice, it shouldn't be the phrased as the "tech" arms race, but instead as the "graphics" arms race.

[mreiland]

It was definitely more than 2 lines.

[cognitvesystem]

yes there are many technical aspect in game development

Game Engine Architecture(non affiliated)

http://www.amazon.com/Game-Engine-Architecture-Jason-Gregory...