Multiplayer/Co-Op & Frictional Games? NO!!!

[Kreekakon]

So don't use any of the ideas because some people may instead use skype? It already occurred to me that people could just use skype if they wanted to, but it also occurred to me that people would have the common sense to realize that that would ruin the game.

Actually, I think that regardless of immersion, or not, the two players will NEED to have constant normalized communication. Either that, or they have to be sure that their gaming habits, and/or playstyle won't conflict with the other person. Unlike when you're just playing with yourself, during which you can decide when, and when to do what, playing with someone else means that you have worry about their gaming habits as well. For example, what if you were separated in-game, and you suddenly had to exit the game because grandpa suddenly visited? Chat, or skype would then be a must.

Also, when playing co-op, or any team based multiplayer game that emphasizes on teamwork, not being able to communicate with your partner fluently can be infuriating most of the time, and not in an immersive way.

Also remember, no matter how brilliant you paint it this is still just a game, and the fact that the players have the ability to communicate with people they KNOW for sure are real world people, it will break them from the immersion a huge deal. This is even more apparent if the players are roommates, or family, and are playing very close to each other.