Explore the concept of "Player Dynamics" in game design through this 2020 GDC Summer talk by developers Kimberly Voll and Weszt Hart. Delve into strategies for enhancing player interactions and motivations in both in-game and meta-game experiences. Learn about tools like the cohesion ladder, experience maps, and cognitive bias lenses to identify opportunities and troublespots in game design. Discover techniques for creating multi-perspective prototypes, supporting self-organization, reinforcing values through narrative, and designing for positive interactions. Gain insights on crafting meaningful roles, establishing rules and values, empowering players, and implementing effective reporting and penalty systems. Master the Player Dynamics design process and cohesion strategies to create more engaging and socially rewarding gaming experiences.
Designing for Multiple Minds - Crafting the Craft of Player Dynamics
Overview
Syllabus
Intro
Focus of today's talk
Tool 81: Cohesion ladder
Experience maps
Cognitive bias lenses
Identify bias troublespots and opportunities
Behavior subgroups
Multi-perspective prototypes
Support sell-organization in and out of game
Reinforce values with narrative
Celebrate the values you want to see in game
Reduce conflict where unnecessary
Design for positive interactions
Create meaningful roles
Create spaces that help people work together
Think outside the core loop
Set rules and establish values
Require commitment
Empower players
Process reports and issue penalties
Player Dynamics design process
Strategies for cohesion
Taught by
GDC
