Ludology Ludology 206 - Ahead of the Curve
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Aug 11, 2019 In this engaging discussion, game designer Tom Lehmann shares insights into the intricacies of game arcs and how they compare to traditional narratives like Romeo & Juliet. He highlights the importance of inflection points in gameplay, which create unexpected shifts in dynamics. Tom draws fascinating parallels between game design and contra dancing, showcasing creativity within structured frameworks. The conversation also touches on long-term gaming experiences and the potential for games to inspire social change.
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Three Main Game Arc Types
- Games have three main arc types: traditional opening-mid-end, series of hands, and multi-act structures.
- Choosing arc depends on scoring timing and game style, impacting how players experience progression.
Co-ops echo narrative arcs
- Cooperative games often mirror narrative story arcs with rising stakes and partial resolutions.
- Competitive games focus more on strategic path commitment rather than dramatic tension and resolutions.
Failure's Role Differs in Games
- Story games benefit from early failures as they raise stakes and deepen engagement.
- Strategy games prefer early success for smoother gameplay and player confidence.
