Underlining Video Game Titles: Pros and Cons

Video game titles are an essential part of any game’s branding and identity. They are often the first thing players see when they encounter a game, and they can make a lasting impression on potential fans. One design element that developers may consider using to enhance their game’s title is underlining. However, like any design choice, there are pros and cons to this approach.

Pros of Underlining Video Game Titles

1. Enhances Aesthetics: One of the main benefits of underlining video game titles is that it can enhance the overall aesthetic of the game. By drawing attention to the title, developers can make it stand out and create a more impactful first impression for players. Additionally, underlining can be used to differentiate between different versions or editions of the same game, which can be helpful for collectors and fans.
2. Clarifies Title: Another benefit of underlining video game titles is that it can help clarify the title for players. For example, if a game has multiple words in its title, underlining can be used to separate them and make it easier for players to understand what the game is about. This can be especially helpful for games with longer or more complex titles.
3. Adds Emphasis: Finally, underlining video game titles can add emphasis to certain words or phrases, which can help draw attention to important aspects of the game. For example, if a game has a particularly memorable tagline or slogan, underlining it can make it stand out and help players remember it more easily.
   

   Cons of Underlining Video Game Titles

4. Distracts from Overall Design: One of the main arguments against underlining video game titles is that it can distract from the overall design of the title. By adding an extra line beneath the text, developers may inadvertently detract from the overall aesthetic of the game and make it less visually appealing to players. Additionally, some argue that underlining can be seen as a gimmick or overly flashy design element, which can make the title feel cheap or unprofessional.
5. Requires Extra Space: Another downside of underlining video game titles is that it requires extra space on the screen. This means that developers may need to reduce the size of other elements on the screen, such as the game’s logo or artwork, in order to accommodate the underline. This can be especially problematic for games with limited screen real estate, such as mobile games or retro-style games.
6. May Not Be Necessary: Finally, some argue that underlining video game titles may not be necessary at all. In some cases, a simple and straightforward title may be more effective than one that is overly flashy or distracting. Additionally, some gamers may prefer to play games without any extra design elements, such as underlines or special fonts, which can make the game feel cluttered or overwhelming.
   

   Case Studies and Personal Experiences

   To better understand the pros and cons of underlining video game titles, let’s take a look at some real-life examples and personal experiences from developers and gamers alike.
   Pro: Enhanced Aesthetics
   One example of a game that uses underlining to great effect is "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild." In this game, the title is underlined with a distinctive gold font, which helps it stand out and adds a sense of grandeur and importance. Additionally, the underline is used to differentiate between different versions or editions of the game, such as the standard edition and the collector’s edition.

   

   Con: Distracts from Overall Design

   On the other hand, some developers argue that underlining can detract from the overall design of the title. For example, in the game "Red Dead Redemption 2," the title is underlined with a thick, bold font, which some players argue makes it feel cluttered and overwhelming. Additionally, the underline is not used consistently throughout the game’s marketing materials, which can make it feel inconsistent and unprofessional.
   Pro: Clarifies Title
   One example of a game that uses underlining to clarify the title is "Minecraft." In this game, the title is underlined with a simple gray font, which helps players understand what the game is about without being too flashy or distracting. Additionally, the underline is used consistently throughout the game’s marketing materials, which helps create a sense of cohesion and professionalism.

   Con: Requires Extra Space

   In the game "Overwatch," the title is underlined with a distinctive blue font, but this design element also requires extra space on the screen. This means that the game’s logo and artwork are smaller than they could be, which can make the game feel less visually appealing to some players. Additionally, the underline is not used consistently throughout the game’s marketing materials, which can make it feel like an afterthought or a gimmick.
   Pro: Adds Emphasis
   Finally, one example of a game that uses underlining to add emphasis is "Fortnite." In this game, the tagline "Build. Fight. Win" is underlined with a distinctive pink font