Simple Tricks or Complicated Games

Which do you like better, simple tricks or complicated games? I prefer simple tricks, but I go with complicated games when needed, because it is easier to win.

A more complex game is shown below:

In my opinion, simple tricks are often easily countered with simple moves. Simple tricks often require a lot of luck for them to work, as most people can spot them pretty quickly. Complicated games provide many more outcomes, and therefore you have many more ways to win. The problem however with complicated games is that your opponent might see something that you haven't seen, leading to YOUR checkmate. I hope this helps :)

There are a couple of tips that I think apply in the complicated game you posted.  "If you see a good move, look for a better one." and "Examine all checks and captures."  Take another look at move 14.

I agree with Aengil

I like the not so simple tricks better.  But seriously speaking playing for tricks against a strong opponent is a risky policy. Experienced players try to play moves that work well even against opponents best replies. Of course, if your position is so bad that standard moves cannot work anymore you can try to play for tricks. In a normal situation it's not worth risking your position just to set up some cheap traps.

There was nothing complicated about that game, it was badly played and full of simple tricks.

You also missed a few mates.

13.Rxg6 hxg6 14.Qxg6 Kh8 15.Qh6+ Kg8 16.Rg1+ Qg4 17.Rxg4#

14.Nxf6+ Kg8 15.Qxh7#

22.Rg7 followed by Qxh7# I'm sure there are others.

 move 22 simply screams for Qg7...

Why go for a mate in 1 when you have a mate in 2.

stopped looking at it as soon as white missed 14. N x f6+

Complicated games for sure, simple tricks work when you're a beginner and it's much more satisfaying to win a tense and complicated tactical game than winning for you're opponent missing a mate in 1