Why Some Games Have Pointless Achievements

In the world of gaming, achievements serve as digital badges of honor, rewarding players for their dedication, skill, and perseverance. However, not all achievements are created equal. Some are meaningful milestones—completing a difficult boss fight, finishing the game on the hardest difficulty, or discovering hidden lore. Others, however, seem utterly pointless: “Press the Start Button,” “Walk 10 Steps,” or “Die for the First Time.” These trivial accomplishments often leave players scratching their heads, wondering why developers bother including them at all.

The Psychology of Instant Gratification

One reason for seemingly meaningless achievements is the psychological principle of instant gratification. Game designers understand that small, early rewards can hook players by giving them a quick sense of accomplishment. A player who unlocks an achievement within seconds of starting a game may feel encouraged to keep playing, chasing more substantial rewards. These “freebie” achievements act as a warm-up, easing players into the experience before presenting them with greater challenges.

Padding Playtime and Engagement

Another explanation is that some developers use trivial achievements to artificially extend playtime or engagement metrics. If a game tracks completion rates, having a mix of easy and hard achievements ensures that even casual players contribute to the statistics. Additionally, some multiplayer or live-service games employ minor achievements to keep players logging in daily, even if the tasks themselves are mundane (“Open the Menu Five Times”). While this tactic may boost short-term engagement, it risks frustrating players who value meaningful progression.

Inside Jokes and Developer Humor

Not all pointless achievements are cynical design choices—some exist purely for fun. Developers occasionally include absurd or humorous achievements as inside jokes or playful nods to gaming culture. For example, The Stanley Parable famously mocks achievement systems with its “Go Outside” award, which requires players not to play the game for five years. These tongue-in-cheek trophies can add charm and personality to a game, endearing it to players who appreciate meta-commentary.

The Downside of Achievement Bloat

While some frivolous achievements are harmless, an overabundance can dilute the value of the system as a whole. When every minor action is rewarded, truly impressive feats may lose their impact. Players who enjoy achievement hunting may also grow frustrated if a game’s list is filled with tedious, time-wasting tasks rather than engaging challenges. Striking the right balance between fun, meaningful achievements and pointless filler is key to maintaining player satisfaction.

Conclusion: Purpose in the Pointless?

At the end of the day, even the most trivial achievements serve some purpose—whether it’s onboarding new players, padding statistics, or simply making them laugh. While not every digital trophy needs to represent a Herculean feat, the best achievement systems find a way to blend humor, encouragement, and genuine challenge. After all, in a medium built on fun, sometimes the “pointless” can still bring a smile.