Sometimes it's fun to hit a scorpion with a club for 38 seconds
A PC Gamer editor argues that Blizzard’s WoW: Forever beta’s slower combat pace offers a refreshing alternative to modern MMO speed, restoring immersion and reflection.
The author describes spending 38 seconds repeatedly striking a scorpion with a wooden club during the WoW: Forever beta, calling the moment unexpectedly fulfilling. This deliberate, unhurried combat contrasts sharply with the rapid, ability-spamming pace of contemporary MMOs. The experience prompted reflection on how modern design prioritizes efficiency over engagement, leaving little room for observation or contemplation. The piece frames the moment as a rediscovery of what MMOs once offered: time to appreciate the world rather than rush through it.
The columnist argues that MMOs have increasingly accelerated gameplay to maximize output, citing optimization guides and meta builds as evidence of this trend. This shift has eroded slower, more immersive experiences in favor of constant progression and instant rewards. The author suggests that the nostalgia-driven WoW: Forever beta challenges this norm by reintroducing deliberate pacing. The 38-second scorpion fight is presented as proof that slowness can enhance enjoyment rather than detract from it.
Reflecting on the broader implications, the writer notes that the slower pace of Forever allowed for deeper appreciation of the game’s environment. The in-game sunrise over Durotar and ambient sounds became focal points of the experience, something often overlooked in faster-paced MMOs. This meditative approach also created space for strategic thinking about future quests and character development. The author frames the moment as a rare opportunity to engage with the game’s world rather than merely progress through it.
The piece concludes by positioning WoW: Forever’s popularity as validation for the appeal of slower MMOs. The author acknowledges skepticism toward the trend but argues that the beta’s reception suggests a demand for more contemplative gameplay. The columnist, a longtime WoW player, suggests that this shift could endure if executed well. The article ends with a personal note about the author’s background in games journalism, reinforcing their credibility on the subject.