Game Design: What is it?
Pieces from a board game. Image Source: PHere What is a game? A game has many definitions. One such definition used by Ian Schreiber is "a play activity with rules that involves conflict." Each game has a set of fundamentals that make it a game. They have ends and means; objectives, outcomes and rules defining how to get there. Decisions are made by a player, who seek objectives within the space given. Schreiber states that there are six properties in a game: It is "Free". Playing is optional. It is "Separate", here meaning fixed in space and time in advance. It has an uncertain outcome. It is "Unproductive". It does not create real life goods or wealth. It is governed by rules. It is make believe. These properties lend structure to a game, and help to distinguish the border between the game world and the real world. It is not necessary to play a game, therefore it is optional; the first decision made by the player is to...