after reading thru this thread, I am super confused by the definition of shovelware. i always thought shovelware games are like those "what's wrong with this picture" kind of games on WiiWare, or games that are basically a compilation of minigames. can someone help me out on this?
after reading thru this thread, I am super confused by the definition of shovelware. i always thought shovelware games are like those "what's wrong with this picture" kind of games on WiiWare, or games that are basically a compilation of minigames. can someone help me out on this?
Yeah. The definition of shovelware is not "a game I think is crap", guys.
Well described, NotEnoughGolds. Another good descriptor is software that is thrown out there just to make a quick buck and cash-in on the popularity of a particular genre or a well-performing console or market (see: the Great Video Game crash), with very little effort actually being put into the software.
Just becuase a game sucks, does not make it shovelware.
It should be worth noting that shovelware can be good for what it offers, too. Wii Sports is an incredibly limited package, barely more than a demo. The fact it works really well is irrelevant. You had to buy that game in Japan separate from the console, and therefore it's shovelware.
Shovelware is simple - it's a game produced on a minimal budget that attempts to take advantage of a large market share (like the Wii) or a gimmick that is proving popular (motion control).
Sometimes, a gem can be made on a minimal budget, but inevitably corners are cut in making a shovelware game, because the budget it simply not there.
But yeah, shovelware can be flawed, but entertaining software.
@Waltz Good point. There definitely can be enjoyable shovelware; certain "match 3"/Bejewelled-type clones and such could fit into that category.
Especially the RPG ones (Puzzle Quest I would consider A-grade, but Puzzle Kingdoms, anyone?) Very cheap package, very good game.
I'd also argue the vast majority of tower defense games are shovelware. By nature they are very cheap to produce, and can be knocked off by a small team of developers very quickly.
Some tower defense games are just awesome - Vector TD, Crystal Defenders, Starship Defense, but all are shovelware.
Yes, that article is logical. What a relief! Wii Sports isn't shovelware! "Shovelware"... that word sounds too negative for such a fun and exceptional game that paved the way for all present and future sports games.
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Topic: Shovelware.
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