Editor’s Note: I like the thinking behind Trevor’s use of a list to explain why lists are so successful. By all means, list the reasons you think he’s right or wrong in the comments below. -Greg
One of the most popular formats in gaming journalism is the list. Why? Because they get a buttload of hits. I’ve heard stories about journalists pitching a story and getting this response: “How can we turn this into a list?”
Many people seem to be against lists, but I guarantee you that they are the first ones to comment on 1UP‘s next Top 5. Why are lists so popular, yet many people’s guilty pleasure — sort of like fast food? Here is a list that tells you why:
1. People like to argue
Let’s say I wrote a list of the best games of all time. On the top of the list I put Superman 64. I’m sure most of you would leave an angry comment at the bottom of the article.
Cha-ching, money in the bank! I’m rolling in a figurative pile of hits and comments.
It seems like you can always find that one game that’s left off the list, which means somebody will rage about it in the comments. These (rightful) haters are unwittingly giving the writer more recognition. Oh, the irony!
2. It’s easy
I mean, how hard is it to think of a couple games that do the same things really well or really terribly? I’ll do it right now.
Top 5 Indiana Jones Rip-Offs or Licensed Games
1. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
2. Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune
3. Tomb Raider Anniversary
4. Lego Indiana Jones
5. Tomb Raider
I’ll even do it again:
Top 5 Boring Protagonists in Video Games
1. Master Chief (Halo series)
2. Marcus Fenix (Gears of War series)
3. Your character in any MMO
4. Anyone in any Lego game
5. Max (Scribblenauts)
Those lists took a combined five minutes to do. Even a caveman could do it.
3. We humans like to organize things
Our ancestors (the same cavemen who could make lists easily now) would set up boundaries between their territory and others’. This gives us a hereditary comfort with organization. Things appeal to us more if things are organized into lists and categories. We may try and deny it, but we enjoy lists innately.
What do you readers who I manipulated into clicking on my story think? Are lists your guilty pleasure? Should lists be abolished? I’m eager to hear your responses.
