That second article was fantastic! A big kudos to RC for an epiphany.

In particular, the benefit of an evolving overarching strategy (ala XCOM) to tie together long stretches of a game along with exceptions to mix things up, rather than relying on a longwinded story to maintain interest. I mean, let's face it, none of the stories in recent times are very good in games. I appreciate the attempt, but very few succeed, IMHO.

It would be great if interesting deep overarching strategy were combined with great story, though. Maybe one day someone will make it…