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Games today have become big business. The gaming industry provides jobs for over 100 million people worldwide.
Even though they are fun and challenging, some games are better than others. Why do some games stand out from the rest?
Game mechanics
What a game is made of can make or break it.
From simple things like shooting at moving targets to complex tasks that take into account many variables — like predicting how you will move your character in response to other players’ actions.
Game mechanics provide a structure on which designers can build more engaging gameplay experiences.
Storytelling
A compelling story can bring meaning to otherwise mundane aspects of life.
A great example is “The Last of Us.” Naughty Dog has crafted an emotional narrative about family bonds and human connection.
It’s not just about saving the world; it’s also about saving yourself.
Visuals
“Call of Duty” and “Uncharted” maybe two of this generation’s biggest franchises, but their success cannot be attributed to graphics alone.
The immersive worlds these series create pull us in with visuals that feel rich and detailed.
Sound design
Sound design plays a huge role in creating emotion in video games.
Great sound creates tension when characters are scared, builds humor when they’re angry, and even helps add realism to fantastical elements.
Music
Music can enhance immersion or create moments of distraction. Many gamers find it hard to focus on a game without music playing in the background.
Community
When we talk about community, we mean online communities like Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, Steam, and Nintendo’s Wii U… as well as offline communities such as those found within our own families.
When used effectively, community-based features help foster social interaction among gamers.
Innovation
Some would argue innovation isn’t necessary for games to be engaging.
However, I believe innovative features push the boundaries of technology and expand the medium of video game storytelling.
Challenge
Challenge is another factor that determines if a game stands apart. Some games offer challenges through difficult controls or limited resources (such as having to work together).
Other challenges arise from having to think strategically and adapt to changing scenarios.
Variety
Lastly, variety exists to keep developers interested in making more content.
Different genres appeal to different people and offer unique ways to escape reality. For example, shooters provide a high adrenaline rush, while RPGs have deep narratives that unfold over time.
Fun
Fun is subjective, but most gamers agree that fun should always be a top priority. Games that aren’t fun don’t stick around long enough for anyone to play them!
Engagement
Engagement refers to any activity that pulls the player deeper into the experience. This might include multiplayer modes or achievements.
While some games do a good job of providing engagement, others fall short by forcing players to spend hours upon end doing repetitive tasks.
Quality
Quality is very important but often overlooked. Developers who put effort into their creations tend to see higher-quality products emerge.
Many factors affect quality, including budget and the team working on a title.
Accessibility
Accessibility is also an essential part of determining whether a game will succeed. It doesn’t matter how great the gameplay or story is if no one can enjoy it.
Value
Value encompasses all aspects of a product, not just price. If a game costs $60 but delivers less than its value, then it won’t sell well.
Creativity
Creativity includes artistic expression as well as technical skills. Creative solutions are rarely obvious, so evaluating creativity is a bit harder than in other areas.
Empathy
Empathy is humanizing your audience. For example, if you’re designing a character based on yourself, that may lead you to empathize with your audience rather than make generic characters.
Time
Most games take time to complete. Whether you decide to buy the game right away or wait until you find a sale somewhere else, you’ll need to invest time into playing it.
Experience
Experience refers to previous knowledge about a specific topic. You get more out of a game when you understand why certain decisions were made.
Entertainment
Entertainment is tied closely to the idea of enjoyment. A good entertainment experience leaves the gamer satisfied after completing it.
Conclusion
Games are crucial in our everyday life because they provide fun and relaxes our minds.