"All the characters and plots were predetermined. Games make bad plots"

This quote by Margaret Weis reflects a viewpoint on the nature of storytelling within games compared to standard narrative types such as books or movies. To analyze this statement, it's essential to consider the relationship between the structured aspects of storytelling and the interactive, often unforeseeable nature of video games.

Weis hints at the fixed nature of characters and plots within video games, implying that, unlike in traditional storytelling where stories are crafted to deliver specific styles and messages, games typically follow a fixed course that might restrict the breadth of narrative expedition. In numerous video games, characters and plots are pre-designed to fit into the mechanics and objectives of the game. This structured structure can in some cases cause linear or predictable stories, which might not provide the depth or complexity discovered in other storytelling mediums.

Her assertion that "video games make bad plots" can be comprehended as a review of this rigidness. In conventional media, the plot unfolds through carefully crafted events that allow for character advancement and thematic exploration. Games, on the other hand, must balance engaging gameplay mechanics with narrative components. This balance can sometimes result in plots that serve the gameplay rather than existing as profound, standalone narratives.

Nevertheless, it's essential to note that this view may not totally represent the evolution of storytelling in video games. In recent years, lots of games have broken the mold by providing branching narratives, open-world exploration, and player-driven stories that provide abundant, immersive experiences comparable to those in books and films. These video games mix interactivity with sophisticated stories, allowing for varied outcomes and character arcs influenced by player choices, challenging the concept that video games are inferior at crafting plots.

In summary, while Margaret Weis's quote clarifies certain constraints traditionally associated with storytelling in games, it may not fully encapsulate the potential and accomplishments of modern-day video gaming narratives, which have begun to equal those of traditional storytelling forms.