The ways in which one could build a video game are practically infinite. But there are some things that must always be considered if you wish to develop a good game that gets players excited.
These are the game design principles. They are the bedrock on which all great games are built.
Depending on who you ask, you will get different answers on which of these principles are the most important. Everyone has their preferences, depending on their individual goals.
No matter which game design studio you work for, these timeless game design principles are fundamental to your work.
We cast a broad net and showcase these principles here that will absolutely be important to your game development process, no matter your end goals.
The Fundamentals of Game Design
The Mechanics-Dynamics-Aesthetics (MDA) framework provides a structure to design games well.
Looking at the games through the MDA lens to dissect and understand them better. This reveals the underlying principles that drive player engagement and satisfaction.
The Game Mechanics are the rules that dictate player-game interactions, Dynamics are the behaviors and experiences that arise through these interactions, and Aesthetics are the emotions evoked in the players.
1. Player-Centered Design
It is the narrative that draws the players in and immerses them in a new virtual world. It is the medium to create an emotional bond between the players and the characters, crafted by a character design studio.
It can transport the players to a fantastical realm, evoke powerful emotions, and instill a sense of agency and control. Immersive dialogue, environmental storytelling, and interactive cutscenes create a memorable gaming experience.
As the players struggle to make morally ambiguous choices, uncover hidden lore, or forge meaningful relationships with in-game characters, they become more and more engrossed. The narrative leaves an impression that stays with them even after the console is turned off.
2. Compelling Gameplay Mechanics
Game mechanics deliver the rules, systems, and interactions that give the game its unique identity. They need to be simple but effective like the rotation of the Tetris block or Mario’s jump.
They need to be intuitive, responsive, and rewarding. As the player begins their journey in the game, the rules must be easy enough to grasp. If they’re too complicated, the player might get frustrated and quit the game.
In other words the game mechanics must be “easy to learn, difficult to master.”
From the simplicity of Tetris to the emergent complexity of Minecraft, game mechanics define the nature of your game. Hence, you must pay detailed attention to how you craft the game mechanics.
3. Immersive Storytelling
It is the narrative that draws the players in and immerses them in a new virtual world. It is the medium to create an emotional bond between the players and the characters.
It can transport the players to a fantastical realm, evoke powerful emotions, and instill a sense of agency and control. Immersive dialogue, environmental storytelling, and interactive cutscenes create a memorable gaming experience.
As the players struggle to make morally ambiguous choices, uncover hidden lore, or forge meaningful relationships with in-game characters, they become more and more engrossed. The narrative leaves an impression that stays with them even after the console is turned off.
4. Balancing Challenge and Accessibility
A clear goal in the game gives direction and purpose to the player. It also delivers a sense of progression against an appropriate level of difficulty. You want to create obstacles that challenge the players and at the same time, keep them motivated to continue playing.
You want to neither bore nor frustrate the players.
Introduce an increasing level of difficulty against the player’s skill level and experience. It fosters a sense of growth and achievement. This will keep the players engaged in the gameplay for long periods of time.
5. Iterative Design and Playtesting
Playtesting, feedback, and iterative design are essential steps in the game development process.
Playtesting provides an insight into player behavior, preferences, and pain points. It shows developers what’s working and the areas of improvement. Developers use this feedback to refine the game design and deliver a polished final product.
It allows for innovation, exploration, and experimentation.
Conclusion
Clear objectives, excellent game mechanics, balanced gameplay, and iterative playtesting, are all critical to developing a game worth playing. These timeless game design principles allow you to develop a product that will be a hit with the players and financially successful as well.
If you seek additional help, EDIIIE is a pioneering design studio that delivers services that take all the important game design principles in consideration.