[Dracko]

The thing my hopes rest upon for this generation of gaming is the concept of emergent gameplay. This goal seems particularly prominent in upcoming games such as Bioshock and The Outsider (Were an overarching storyline isn't written in, but individual motives are simulated). Even Crysis seems to want to offer a more free-form experience than most FPS games. It reminds me of Operation Flashpoint, in fact.

Some may take issue with the idea, because of its implications for expression, but I wouldn't say that's the point. For one, it offers far more expression, and power, to the gamer, which should be crucial. I'm of the belief that the future of gaming lies in that concept, even though, cynical as I am, I don't expect it to be fully delivered on just yet.