I've come to the conclusion that the first 2 minutes of exposure a player has to a game is critical in their decision to keep playing. Does anyone have any good systems or experience with this? Games I've played with good <= 2 minute hooks include:
The first Zelda. I remember my dad getting this game when I was in 2nd grade. When I went in that cave and was given the responsibility of using that sword, I was hooked. And when I realized that special items were concealed in dungeons, I totally geeked out.
Contra - From the moment I landed on that island, I knew I had to beat the game. I'm not sure what it was, but the combination of stuff shooting at me, bridges blowing up, and weapon power ups completely drew me in.
FF3 (or 6, depends on where you're from) - The whole presentation of this game just got me from the beginning. The art, the combat and the story just drew me in. I just had to beat it.
Ogre Battle - When I defeated the wizard (Warren) on the first level, and he joined my forces, it was totally on.
BBG Games - I haven't had too many BBG games that drew me in within 2 minutes. But the ones that did usually had screen shots and elaborate how-to-play sections that compelled me to try them out. And once I started, I was usually hooked until at least the first reset.
Does anyone else have any fond moments/memories?
