Games Decisions

Decisions

Sources:
https://learn.canvas.net/courses/3/pages/level-6-dot-0-decisions-decisions?module_item_id=44556
https://learn.canvas.net/courses/3/pages/level-6-dot-1-tips-on-decision-making?module_item_id=44557
https://learn.canvas.net/courses/3/pages/level-6-dot-2-flow-theory?module_item_id=44558

Games Decisions

Decisions are the core of what a game is. How meaningful the decisions are and why are important. The more you understand what makes some decisions more compelling than others, the better and easier it is to be a game designer.

Uninteresting Decisions

• Meaningless decisions - If you can play either of two cards but both cards are identical, that's not really much of a choice
• Obvious decisions - They have an effect on the game, but there is clearly one right answer . This doesn't give the player much of a choice and is more so directing the player to one way.
• Blind decisions - Your choice affects the outcome of the game, but you have no way of knowing what to choose.

Good Decisions

• Resource trades - Giving one thing up in exchange for another, where both are valuable. Which is more valuable and which will come in handy more?
• Risk versus reward - One Choice is safe. The other choice has a potentially greater payoff, but also higher risk of failure.
• Choice of actions - You have several potential things you can do, but you can't do all of them.
• Social information - In games where bluffing, deal-making and backstabbing are allowed, players must choose between playing honestly or dishonestly.
• Short term versus long term - You can have something right now, or something better later on. The player must balance immediate needs against long-term goals.
• Dilemmas - You must give up one of several things. Which one can you most afford to lose?

Flow Theory

What is flow theory? 

Flow theory is a psychology theory that we can adapt in our game designs to create challenges that are catered to the skill level of our players. It is a fundamental theory that every game developer should have a good grasp on.

Requirements for a flow state to exist:

• You must be performing a challenging activity that requires skill.

• The activity must provide clear goals and feedback.

• The outcome is uncertain but can be influenced by your actions.