apply game design concepts
Define a unique game idea
● Learn and apply game design concepts across storytelling, game play, user experience,
and technology
● Gain experience with the design documentation
● Continue to learn the process of designing games
● Brainstorm creative ideas and take the first step to bring them to fruition
● Have fun!
Assignment
1. Brainstorm ideas for your game using the defined “theme” as a starting point.
Ideas for games can come from many things. Ernest Adams refers to designing games
as bringing dreams to life … so your dreams may fuel your game ideas. Others may use
life events, sports, movies, or even other games to inspire their game ideas. Use an
approach that works for you.
However, keep the following in mind:
○ Your game idea must be original – it should not just be a clone of another game
you have played. It can be similar to another game, but must be unique in some
significant way.
○ Try to be unique and creative. This is your chance to innovate in the game space.
○ Your game idea does not necessarily need to be commerically viable. That is,
you do not have to worry if the game will make money. Therefore, you have
freedom to focus on niche markets, etc…
○ However, your game should be designed for your players, not just for you. Define
the target audience and take a player-centric approach to your design.
2. After several rounds of brainstorming, attempt to answer the following questions:
○ What does the player do? (interactivity)
○ Where does the player do it? (setting, story, narration)
○ What are the constraints on the player? (core mechanics)
○ What sort of emotion is this game trying to evoke in the player? (affect)
