Posts filled under: game design
If we hope to make games that are truly socially responsible and offer players the satisfaction of more deeply resonant messages about the human condition we must start not by looking at the feature set, but by looking to our creators. We must empower them (ie: give them the authority and the responsibility) to explore their own feelings and make games that move them deeply and reject another generic action game with a morality meter tacked on the side – because all that is, is a farce. We should be ashamed of that.
— Clint Hocking on Didacticism in Game Design
A Different Kind of Shooter
I’m mulling over the idea of designing a game based on child soldiers. I’m starting by reading a book called, “A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier” by Ishmael Beah.
Recipe for Game
- 1 innovative yet trendy concept
- appropriate budget
- full team of qualified and enthusiastic professionals
- appropriate timeline
- 1 eager demographic
Start by picking only the finest ingredients. I’m not talking about hitting up your local grocery store. Rather, go to a market where each element has been grown with care.
Take note: Any substitution of ingredients can lead to unexpected results.
Next, plan out your process carefully. Clear a space; get everything prepped; keep all surfaces clean and begin. Combine elements in one studio and mix gently. Be careful when mixing as ingredients can be tempermental. Pour into mold and place in production at 400F.
Remember: Do not under or over cook the project. It is vital that it cook for just the right amount of time.
Remove from oven and test. If the project is free of bugs, remove from mold and begin icing. This is important as presentation is key. Also, open up the windows and let the smell drift out. Building anticipation is important too.
Finally, serve. If all was done properly, you’ll find a very satisfied demographic who are eager for any of your other dishes you want to cook up.
Note: Often the wrong indredients are used, forgotten or neglected, cooking time is too short or too long, the wrong tools and techniques are employed and so on. This is an art that requires precision and care. Failure to respect this will lead to a dish that can leave players with a soured stomach.
