Originally Posted by Dhruin
As I said in the article, I was using hyperbole. I enjoyed all of those myself (to very varying degrees) but not of them comes without a caveat.

Oh come on… you don't like Oblivion… just admit it!

I really liked what you wrote regarding Oblivion's scaled world and how you suggested that Bethesda most likely perceives that aspect of the design as a success to the game. I agree with that analysis.

I'm hoping however that the like with anything else, that the scaling concept continues to evolve. I think scaling as implemented in Morrowind was to a much better degree.

As much as I enjoy playing Oblivion, critics are correct that the scaling substantially diminshes the player's perception of 'growing' one's character. Leveled loot also has a similar effect. There is just something about hand-placed treasure that is super satisfying… a design element I belive made Gothic 1 and 2 so fun to play.