Features Review
Among Us: A Look at the Most Popular Game of 2020
A Game That Has Taken the World by Storm
In the whirlwind of global events that have taken place in 2020, one might assume that gaming would take a backseat. However, that couldn't be further from the truth. As people seek to find new ways of connecting and entertaining themselves, the gaming industry has seen record growth, and Among Us has risen to the top of the pile.
Developed and published by InnerSloth in June 2018, Among Us stayed somewhat under the radar until 2020, when it suddenly gained massive popularity from high-profile streamers and content creators. Now, with an impressive peak daily active user count of over 1.5 million on Steam alone, this simple yet engaging game has captured the hearts of millions across the world as both an entertaining way to spend time with friends and a thrilling battle of wits to outsmart your enemies. But what's behind this surge in popularity, and does Among Us truly live up to its hype? Let's dive in and find out.
The Perfect Blend of Simplicity and Depth
At its core, Among Us is a game of deception and deduction. Players take on the roles of Crewmates and Impostors aboard a spaceship with the objective of either completing tasks or sabotaging the others, respectively. As bodies are discovered, and emergency meetings are called, players must discuss who they believe is an Impostor, vote players off the ship, and hope they made the right decision. With rounds lasting only about 10-15 minutes, the game remains fast-paced and exciting, keeping players engaged and eager for more.
The beauty of Among Us is in its blend of simplicity and depth, allowing first-time players to quickly pick up the mechanics, while still providing enough complexity for those who want more. However, this simplicity can also present some weaknesses in the form of repetition; tasks are often basic, and there is a limited number of maps currently available, which may lead to some players feeling like they have exhausted the game's potential.
Another issue faced by the game is its unmoderated chat system. Predominantly in public matches, instances of profanity, bullying, or personal attacks are not uncommon. Though InnerSloth has recently advised that a moderation system is in the works, as of now, players must rely on the in-game report system or mute features to deal with negative behavior. Additionally, there have been reports of server/connection issues and instances of hacking/cheating, which can disrupt the gameplay experience.
The Phenomenon Built on Trust, Lies, and Betrayal
Despite its few weaknesses, the overall consensus among users and critics alike is that Among Us is a genuinely well-made and enjoyable game. When played with friends or a good-natured group of random players, the highs and lows of the game's suspense and intrigue can be truly exhilarating. The joy of catching a lying Impostor or the challenge of piecing together information makes for a truly engaging experience that keeps players coming back for more.
The game's lasting appeal may very well be attributed to the fact that it relies so heavily on human interaction as the driving force behind its gameplay. People are naturally drawn to games that allow them to combine their love of narratives and socializing, and Among Us offers just that.
In conclusion, Among Us has more than earned its title as one of the most popular games in 2020. Though there are definite areas where improvements could be made, the game's core mechanics and unique appeal should leave a lasting impression on those who dare to navigate the minefield of trust, lies, and betrayal that it offers.
