Devs Need To Stop Adding Internet Requirements In Single-Player Games

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Avinash Jaisrani

At HI Digital I test and write about different hardware configurations to show other PC users what they can expect from their build. My end goal is to educate the masses to make the right decision when they are looking for new PC parts to buy

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Throughout history, story modes in games have been primarily associated with offline gameplay. They have provided a way for players to enjoy stories and experiences without the need for an internet connection or the pressures of competition.

However, the gaming industry seems to be changing for the worse, with developers shifting to a new strategy. Internet connections are often required at all times today, even in story modes.

I believe this is a terrible practice, and an end should be put to forced internet connection requirements.

Why it matters: Requiring a mandatory active internet connection for story modes introduces numerous issues that detract from the relaxing and engaging experience these modes are meant to provide.

The Black Ops 6 Problem

This requirement undermines the purpose of story modes by locking out players who lack reliable internet access, making this move very anti-consumer. Black Ops 6 is the latest example of this trend.

It has been revealed to require an active internet connection at all times, even in the campaign. According to Activision, the requirement is put into place to deliver the highest quality visuals while reducing the overall size through texture streaming across all game modes.

In my opinion, this implementation is a major flaw in what could be Call of Duty’s biggest title in recent years. As someone who has cherished various campaigns over the years, I find this roadblock to be completely unnecessary.

Imagine your internet goes out, and you want to play Call of Duty. You can still fall back on the campaign, but Black Ops 6 won’t allow this liberty.

Always Online Requirements Always Cause Outrage

Multiple developers have implemented similar requirements in the past, but it usually backfires. Some recent examples of games requiring an active internet connection at all times, even in story mode, include Redfall, Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League, and Diablo 4.

However, after Redfall’s poor performance, an offline mode for the game was introduced in May, and its developer, Arkane Austin, was shut down. Similarly, Kill The Justice League was a massive failure for Rocksteady Studios, and an offline mode for the game has also been announced.

Although Gran Turismo 7 does not feature a story mode, it requires an active internet connection almost constantly. Elsewhere, Forza Motorsport mandates an active internet connection for progression in its career mode.

As one would expect, the industry did not take kindly to this implementation for any of these games. Therefore, the issue is not limited to just story modes, and it extends to any single-player mode or title that does not necessarily need online gameplay.

I hope to see this trend completely disappearing since it is very anti-consumer and ruins the fun of gaming. I’d much rather have all my games available to me at all times than sit through an empty library anytime my internet goes out.

Avinash Jaisrani

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