The many-boxed roadmap represents everything I hate about shooters right now
PC Gamer
by Morgan Park February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article critiques the trend of game developers releasing overpromised "roadmaps" that list numerous upcoming features, often in a visually cluttered and uninspired manner. These roadmaps, which resemble investor reports, have turned players into armchair analysts who obsess over metrics like Steam concurrents and social media buzz. This approach has reduced gaming to a cycle of constant updates, where the focus is on checking boxes rather than delivering meaningful content.
The author argues that these roadmaps sap the magic from games by revealing everything upfront and prioritizing quantity over quality. Games like *Battlefield 6* exemplify this trend with endless modes, events, and cosmetic passes that feel more like a marketing ploy than genuine additions. Instead of innovating or improving core gameplay elements, developers are pressured to release new content every quarter, leading to "live service brain rot." This mindset has turned gaming into a series of checklist updates rather than an organic evolution.
The article suggests that this approach is unhealthy for both players and developers. Players lose the joy of discovery when everything is laid out in advance, and developers risk diluting their game's identity by chasing trends instead of focusing on what truly matters. Games like *Held divers 2*, which avoid rigid roadmaps and surprise players with meaningful updates, show that there’s a better way to keep players engaged without constantly feeding into hype cycles.
Ultimately, the article calls for a shift in how games are developed and consumed. Instead of prioritizing metrics and meaningless content dumps, developers should focus on creating deeper, more lasting experiences that resonate with players. For readers interested in gaming, this critique highlights the importance of valuing quality over quantity and fostering a culture where creativity and player enjoyment come first.
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/19/2026