Depending on a state pension such as the US Social Security guarantees one thing - a low standard of living in your old age. If you're fine with living on about 30% of your pre-retirement income (higher if you're currently among the poor), feel free to do so, but keep in mind that you forgo any level of choice or control over your future wellbeing. Ideally, you want to have a combination of stocks, real estate, cash, and preferably a hobby that brings in some extra cash. That's all in my plan and on track.