In the very first episode of The Big Bang Theory, the lactose-intolerant Dr. Leonard Hofstadter says of cheesecake as a concept: “I don’t eat it, I just think it’s a good idea.” This, really, is my exact attitude to creative games like Super Mario Maker for the much-maligned Wii U.
I’ve watched in awe as talented (and infinitely patient) players have created whole realms in Minecraft. I’ve marveled at the wonderful replica houses that have been made in The Sims.
When Super Mario Maker arrived on the Wii U ten years ago, I loved it for just this reason: I could enjoy the suite of creative tools it offered through trying out the challenging, hilarious, and generally infuriating stages made by other people, without the pressure of designing them myself.
I recognize an excellent level creator when I see one, even if I'm really not much cop at using them.
The fact is, I absolutely adore the idea of these sorts of experiences, which give you the tools to take you as far as your imagination allows. The issue is, my imagination doesn’t tend to allow for very much in that regard.
I like to think I’m quite...
