Designing a Compelling Game

In class today we looked at some examples of the Mario game from other students, and talked about what we look for as the characteristics of a good game design. These are good to keep in mind as we design other games this year. We first need to meet the requirements. And the more compelling we can make the game beyond that, the more fun it will be to play.

Here is the list of characteristics of good game design from our discussion, in the order the students shared them.

1. Good story line. Make it interesting, not boring. Have a plot to follow.
2. Different. We like playing new games more than returning to old ones. 
3. Intricate. Have lots of things happening to make the game more interesting.
4. Winnable. At some point the player wants to think he or she can win at the game, and make that point clear. What is the objective?
5. Score Points. Along the way show progress by awarding points for various achievements. Players can get a sense of progress even if they fail to win the overall game.
6. Challenging. While the player wants a chance to win, he/she does not want it to be too easy. 
7. Social Gaming. Set up the game to enable players to play with friends. Compare scores. Put various players in the game. Talk with each other while playing. Whatever.
8. Not Buggy. Make sure the game works smoothly. Bugs are distracting.
9. Good graphics. Many of the best games are nice to look at. 

Feel free to add comments to this blog with other characteristics we missed or which of these you find most important.