Uncharted 3's Big Flaw? Too Many Set Pieces, Says Former Designer

A former Naughty Dog designer reflects on Uncharted 3, saying too many set pieces hurt the game, and that Uncharted 2's success may have influenced that.

Ever played a game that felt like it just wouldn't stop throwing explosions and collapsing buildings at you? If you've played Uncharted 3, you might know that feeling. And according to a former Naughty Dog designer, that was actually the game's biggest flaw.

In a recent interview, the designer—who worked on Uncharted 3—admitted that the team may have gone overboard with set pieces. "I think that was a big flaw," they said, reflecting on how the game was hindered by its constant, over-the-top action sequences. But where did that impulse come from? The designer points to Uncharted 2's massive success.

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is often hailed as one of the greatest action-adventure games ever made. Its set pieces—like the train sequence and the collapsing building—were groundbreaking and got tons of praise. So, naturally, when it came time for Uncharted 3, the team felt pressure to top that. The result? A game packed with one jaw-dropping moment after another, but sometimes at the cost of pacing and player agency.

Instead of letting the story breathe, Uncharted 3 often felt like a rollercoaster ride where you're just along for the ride, watching Nate escape yet another impossible situation. The designer admits that this focus on spectacle may have detracted from what made Uncharted special: the character moments and the sense of exploration.

It's a fascinating insight into game development. Success can be a double-edged sword. When you nail a formula, it's tempting to double down on it, but sometimes you lose sight of what made it work in the first place. Uncharted 3 is still a great game, but it's a reminder that more isn't always better.

So, what do you think? Were Uncharted 3's set pieces too much, or did they add to the excitement? Let us know in the comments!