


The patty-or-buns dilemma is entirely subjective, but it’s one that epitomizes the evolution of video games and what’s classified as a core mechanic. “Yes, in conclusion: The patty is more important.” “The patty is more important, huh? I see,” remarks Taro in a recent interview with WIRED. It’s also one that he uses to show that betraying fans’ expectations and convincing players to engage with narratives are two different story elements that can coexist. For Yoko Taro, the creative director behind the Nier series, it’s a logical fallacy. “Which is more important: the patty or the buns?” The age-old causality dilemma has taken different forms for centuries-from the chicken-or-egg paradox to online debates weighing anime versus manga.
