Interesting comment.

Historically games were ALL about hi-scores and reaching level 7 without losing a life.

You're article made me think that in the current generation of games, with their ultra-rich content, non-linear elements and holywood-sized budgets - games can be enjoyed in other ways.

In the same way you would enjoy a book or a film, or music for that matter.

Maybe then, "Achievements" are an effort to keep the competitive element there. It does add something to the online experience - seeing who has what badges - but I agree - they can be irrelevant in one player.

My current bugbear those, is with those morons who ask for help in getting them.