OPINION: Board the video game hype train or not?

AAA video game titles often tend to garner a lot of hype in the build up to their release. An announcement trailer, specially crafted to instigate the passion of gamers, sets the hype train loose making it gain momentum as the day of reckoning draws nearer. However, as a gamer who has seen the rise and demise of several hyped-up titles over the course of many years, I have grown quite skeptical of the hype which stems from the hive mind known as the gaming community. If we look at recent titles from last year, we will see that many major game developers have slumped when it comes to actually delivering quality games although the trailers, developer diaries and media coverage all worked in tandem to generate buzzing anticipation amongst gamers. However, if gamers actually analysed the gameplay trailers and the interviews of developers, they would be better informed of the product that they plan on purchasing.

Destiny is a prime example of this. It was supposed to be a pseudo-sandbox game brimming with a variety of missions to do, wrapped in a great story. Little did the gamers notice, the game was actually a quasi-MMO with very prominent grinding elements. This case was apparent to few who commented on the YouTube videos calling out the bluffs and warning other fellow gamers of the incoming disappointment. To their dismay, however, they were shot down by mindless fanboyism. Thus, come release day, Destiny was a total let-down for many while others actually enjoyed the game.
If gamers took the time to make an informed decision before jumping on the hype train, they would be left with a bitter taste in their mouths far less often. Dragon Age: Inquisition, a game which is a huge commercial success, actually met constant scepticism and scrutiny as Bioware (the game's developer) made a blunder with Dragon Age 2. Many passionate RPG gamers continued to question, analyse, and dissect the game up until the day of release. The game was not everything that many hoped it to be. However, that did not prevent the game from being appreciated by critics AND players. This was a prime example of gamers doing good, extensive research before actually making a purchase.
So the question arises, yet again. Should you believe hype? Yes and no. Being overly sceptical about games might prevent you from enjoying a truly fun game and being overly optimistic about a game might shatter your expectations.