When we go to see comedians or funny movies, they don't address the wall behind them; they face us. This is why a game's first job is to entertain through gameplay and secondarily through humor, drama, or other traditional entertainment devices. The humor has to be a gentleman. I mean, it needs to be squeezed in around the game.

In this quote, Doug TenNapel draws a comparison between the way comedians or funny movies engage with their audience and how humor should be integrated into video games. He points out that comedians and movies face their audience, creating a direct and focused connection that allows for the humor to resonate effectively. This is a key distinction, as TenNapel believes that video games, unlike traditional forms of entertainment, should prioritize gameplay first, with humor and other elements like drama being secondary. He emphasizes that the core purpose of a game is to entertain through interactive gameplay, while additional storytelling and humor should complement the experience without overwhelming it.

TenNapel argues that the inclusion of humor in video games should be subtle and not overpower the primary objective, which is to offer engaging and immersive gameplay. He uses the phrase, "The humor has to be a gentleman," suggesting that it should be refined and tasteful, not forced or out of place. In his view, humor should be seamlessly integrated into the game, fitting naturally around the gameplay rather than distracting from it. This approach ensures that the player’s experience remains enjoyable and focused on the core interactive elements.

His quote also touches on the balance between entertainment devices such as humor, drama, or emotional storytelling and the interactivity that defines video games. He believes that these elements should never detract from the primary function of the game, which is to engage and entertain through action and choice. Instead, they should support the gameplay, enhancing it without becoming the main focus. This balance allows for a richer, more well-rounded gaming experience, where the game remains the star, with humor and drama enhancing the player’s journey.

Ultimately, TenNapel’s quote underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between the different aspects of game design. He advocates for humor to be treated as an additional layer of entertainment rather than the primary force driving the experience, ensuring that it enhances rather than detracts from the core gameplay. This perspective highlights the need for thoughtful integration of narrative elements in a medium primarily driven by interactivity.