Video games offer countless hours of entertainment, but it's often the small, unexpected moments that leave the most lasting impression. In the spirit of celebrating the medium, players and critics have highlighted a variety of peculiar and delightful instances that spark joy.
These moments range from unintentional humor, such as when a bug causes ragdoll bodies to briefly jump after being defeated, to the satisfaction of a perfectly executed combat maneuver. The ability to unleash an overpowered attack for the sheer thrill of it, or to find a weapon with a grandiose name and a compelling backstory, also contributes to this sense of joy. For instance, the hyperbolic naming conventions seen in games like Destiny or the detailed food "glamour screens" in RPGs that visually enhance health restoration can elevate the player's experience.
Some players find pleasure in specific in-game interactions, like the surprisingly effective use of a toilet as a projectile weapon in Control, or the simple, interactive elements such as flushing toilets or the satisfying "snap" of attaching Joy-Cons to a Nintendo Switch. The sound design of games is also a source of delight, from the iconic "ding" of leveling up, as experienced in World of Warcraft, to the specific chime of completion in PowerWash Simulator.
Other notable moments include the triumphant fanfare of a critical hit, the nostalgic smell of a new game's packaging, or the freedom to run past a slow-moving NPC when prompted to follow. Even FromSoftware's recurring trick of hiding enemies behind doors can elicit a chuckle, despite its predictability.
Multiplayer interactions also provide unique sparks of joy. Moments of unspoken teamwork, where players intuitively understand each other's intentions, or the simple act of gesturing to communicate with fellow players, can foster a sense of connection. Similarly, helping a confused stranger or being helped in return in a multiplayer environment highlights the positive social aspects of gaming.
Even seemingly mundane actions can be enjoyable. The deliberate act of looking around a game's environment slowly, as if showcasing its visual fidelity, or the tactile satisfaction of building in Lego games, with their distinct "click" sounds, are appreciated. The visual feedback of rare loot drops, often signaled by vibrant glowing effects, provides a rewarding visual cue for players.
Certain game mechanics are celebrated for their ability to add depth and reward to gameplay. The "Active Reload" system in Gears of War, which turns a standard reload into a split-second mini-game, is one such example. Similarly, the strategic depth of systems like the "Press Turn" combat in Shin Megami Tensei and Persona games allows for creative exploitation and satisfying victories.
Subtle design choices also contribute to the overall enjoyment. A well-crafted title screen that sets the mood and hints at the game's quality, or the impactful moment when a game's title dramatically appears mid-mission, can be particularly memorable. The resurgence of games loudly announcing their own titles on the main menu, a practice reminiscent of older arcade titles, offers a nostalgic thrill.
Finally, the pure excitement surrounding major game announcements, like the trailers for Silksong or Grand Theft Auto VI, or significant reveals at events like E3, demonstrates the power of anticipation and collective enthusiasm within the gaming community. These moments, whether humorous glitches, satisfying mechanics, or shared experiences, collectively underscore what makes video games a uniquely joyful medium.