Game Elements

Game Elements

Games are very fun to play. Everyone knows that. However, often the case of 'why' it's fun to play varies from person to person. Often times we just talk about what the game offers, its mechanics, the thing you can do, etc. and the discussion often just ends there.

Preferences of games will differ from each individual but the principle of what makes the game doesn't. It all depends on the creative input of the creator and the work they put in.

There was a certain element not mentioned clearly in both the reading or the articles, which is Game Mechanic.

The game mechanic is the basic rules and procedures of how the game will be played and how the game will respond to the player's actions. Essentially, game mechanics are simply 'gimmicks' of which the game itself is based around.

'Undertale' is a RPG game that claimed itself 'the friendly RPG where NOBODY has to DIE' It has an unique mechanic in the game of which you are fully capable of completing the game without killing a single enemy. This is a polar opposite approach to your standard RPG formula.

Its gimmick is that the game itself plays around the mechanics of a normal RPG and tells a compelling narrative with it. Battles, EXP, dialogue, endings all change depending on how many enemies you kill which meant that every single action you take is very consequential. 

"If I started spending money on old branches and used bandages, I'd be out of business in a jiffy!"
The response of a shopkeeper when you want to sell something to her.
Clever.

Game mechanics can ground a game with its theme and core gameplay. It can shape a game to something unique among the same genre and make them stand out.

If you want games with some unique mechanics, here are some games below:

1. Patapon series on the PSP: 
You command tiny black-eyeball people with a sequence of drumbeats to command them. Quite addicting.
Check out its trailer on the PS4: link.

2. Any Mystery Dungeon games: 
Mystery dungeon games were famous for its procedural generating random dungeons of which you can explore. I would recommend Etrian Odyssey Dungeon for starters. It's an RPG with the mystery dungeon mechanic on the 3DS. Simple but solid game mechanic.
Here's the trailer: link;

3. Factorio:
You are trapped on a planet and needs to use the resources around you to build a rocket to escape. How do you do it? By building entire factories and logistical systems to manufacture the parts you need to build that rocket. A solid management, building and survival game for those who like intricate factory lines and production cycles.
Want to see how hectic it can be? Here:link.

3.5 Satisfactory:
It's very similar to Factorio, except things are more sci-fi and in awesome 3D graphic. This game is still in its early stages but boy would I be wrong if it doesn't look and feel good.
For good vibes, double link: link 1, link 2,

Besides game mechanics, I think that everything else the article has included in alright. How many players can be playing in a session? The goal of a game and how to achieve them? What you can get in terms of resources, weapon and gears? What are the limitations of the game and how do you address them?

These are all important elements in a game that must be implemented to make a game feel complete.

I hope you enjoy my random rambling in this blog.

What else do you think is crucial in a game? You can tell me in the comments if you want.

Thank for reading my blog.

Have a nice day.