"Just one game." It's a phrase we've all uttered, yet rarely does it end there. From classics like Super Mario Bros to contemporary hits like Baldur’s Gate, the world of gaming has evolved into a global phenomenon. With platforms like YouTube and Twitch, gaming has transcended personal pastime to become a deeply social and competitive pursuit.
In today's gaming landscape, the allure goes beyond mere entertainment. Prize pools for eSports tournaments can soar into the millions, and in Singapore, the gaming industry has skyrocketed, boasting a worth of S$5.2 billion. From marquee events like Gamescom Asia to the inaugural Olympic Esports Week, the Lion City has firmly established itself on the gaming map.
But what keeps us glued to our screens, game after game? The answer lies in the artful blend of uncertainty and agency carefully woven into game design.
In his seminal work, "Uncertainty in Game Design," Greg Costikyan delves into the pivotal role uncertainty plays in crafting an engaging gaming experience. From dice-rolling in Baldur’s Gate 3 to the performative uncertainty of first-person shooters, games thrive on a delicate balance of unpredictability and player interaction.
So, what are the sources of this uncertainty?
Performative uncertainty challenges your hand-eye coordination, driving you to improve your gaming prowess. Solver’s uncertainty, prevalent in puzzle-based games, taps into logic and strategy to propel you forward. Player unpredictability comes to the fore in multiplayer settings, where every move influences the outcome. Randomness introduces an element of luck, keeping you on your toes, while analytics complexity tests your strategic acumen.
These principles trace back to ancient games like Senet and The Royal Game of Ur, designed to teach strategy and resource management. Today, modern war games echo these concepts, presenting players with complex scenarios to navigate.
Behind every game lies the meticulous craftsmanship of a game designer. In "Elements of Game Design," Robert Zubek explores the multifaceted role of game designers, from mechanics to narrative. Contrary to popular belief, game design demands blood, sweat, and pixels, as Jason Schreier reveals in "Blood, Sweat and Pixels."
Keen to delve deeper into the world of game design? library@orchard’s Pro Series: Game Design offers illuminating talks and workshops that dissect the core elements of game design. From creating immersive worlds to crafting memorable characters, these sessions offer invaluable insights into the craft of game design.
Join these amazing game designers at library@orchard for an unforgettable journey into the heart of gaming and game design. Let's unlock the thrill together!