Thursday, May 14, 2015

The Most Vital Game Design Fundamentals

By Michael Robert Peterson


If you've been a fan of video games for a long time, you already know what elements help to make a good game. You know how graphics should be presented and how the feel of the game should be. These are just a few examples to consider, but they do not exactly go over what are considered the principles of game design. For those who are looking for greater evidence, in this regard, make sure that these points are kept in the back of your mind.

The introduction of new concepts must be covered at the onset. To better illustrate this point, let's say that you start a new level in a game, only to be immediately given a new item to use in that very level. It would make sense for it to be structured about that item's function, whether it's for combat reasons or to reach higher plateaus. This helps new ideas rise to the surface, thereby creating an atmosphere that gamers of all experience levels can get into.

Story should be told, in game design, through various elements. It's easy to see that dialogue matters, but to say that this is the only way that a narrative can be carried out would be something of a lie. In fact, set pieces and music can come together in order to further a story, giving it a greater degree of weight than it would have had otherwise. If these elements are crafted with care, and incorporated in the best of ways, any game's story will shine brighter.

Finally, a game should be fun to play. It's a simple concept - and one that doesn't have to be said, in all honesty - but this is where level structure can come into play once more. It should feel rewarding to overcome obstacles, no matter how tricky or challenging they may be. When this level of weight is presented, gamers are much likelier to press on and learn more about the story they're being presented. Without enjoyment, no game is going to stand strong.

Keep in mind, though, that these are just a few principles for game design students to know. There are many other topics to look into, and each of them will make or break the games that men and women alike create. Game design is becoming a broader and broader field in time, since just about anyone with technological experience can get involved. In order to maximize these efforts in the long run, though, the principles in question cannot be ignored.




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