Article by Eryk Katimbang Graphics by Enzo Salvador
August 8, 2022
As Genshin Impact released the version 2.8 patch, only a handful of players have voiced their enthusiasm for the current content for them, as the rest stumble their eyes on something more worthwhile. Teasers for the version next to the recent patch are being released left and right by Hoyoverse, rounding the players up in a state of Hype and excitement for the content that is to come. The hype effectively overshadowed the previous excitement players had for the current version’s content, leaving only a few words to show their appeal. However, this wasn’t the first time where such things happened in Genshin Impact, as this is Hoyoverse’s signature tactic of keeping their old players playing and new players allured. But what makes this tactic so effective for a game such as Genshin Impact? Is it really a good way to keep a game alive?
To answer such a question, we have to delve deep and explain the roots and intricacies of hype and how it can be utilized for the better or worse.
In simple terms, Hype is a term used to describe a feeling of enthusiasm (sometimes mixed with nostalgia) of one or multiple people towards a product or event coming out soon to the general public. Game companies such as Hoyoverse utilize this tactic as teasers, showing players glimpses of gameplay and content, often making the content look enticing enough for them to stay and play. This tactic allows them to cycle Hype to allow disinterest to rocket back into a genuine interest in a matter of a day or even weeks. However, this isn’t the case all the time, as Hype can only do so much to the player-base since there is one fatal flaw it can fall into: If the expectation of the player-base did not meet the standard of the content that was given hype, it would cost the game company dearly through many means.
But what does this mean for Genshin Impact?
Genshin Impact is a global phenomenon; thus, its standards are at their peak regarding content. Not only do players want more content and gameplay, but also want some sort of diversity in the game that could satisfy their wants. Whether it be through events, a collaboration, or something that could easily hook them for playing hours upon hours on end, one thing is certain: Hype must always live up to their expectations, as it can make or break the game. While it is a constant struggle for a big company such as Hoyoverse to make sure that the player-base can stay satisfied with their content, they can always rely on the cycle of hype to keep the players hooked.
All that’s left is for them to deliver.
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