Game Mechanics¶

Game mechanics define how a game works.

They describe: - what actions the player can take - how the game responds - how progress is made or lost

Mechanics are the core of gameplay.

What Is a Game Mechanic?¶

A game mechanic is a rule-based interaction between the player and the game.

Examples include: - movement and jumping - scoring points - losing health - collecting items - triggering events

A game usually has several mechanics working together.

Mechanics and Player Experience¶

Good mechanics: - feel responsive - are easy to understand - support the purpose of the game

Poor mechanics: - confuse players - feel unfair or unpredictable - weaken engagement

Design decisions should focus on player experience, not complexity.

Implementing Mechanics¶

Mechanics are implemented using: - variables (to track state) - control structures (to handle decisions and repetition) - scripts (to define behaviour)

Figure 11 — From player input to game response

flowchart LR
    Input --> Script
    Script --> GameState
    GameState --> Feedback

Each mechanic should have a clear cause and effect.

Testing Mechanics¶

Testing mechanics involves checking: - does the mechanic work every time? - does it respond correctly to input? - does it behave as expected in edge cases?

Testing often reveals: - logic errors - balance issues - usability problems

Iterating on Mechanics¶

Rarely does a mechanic work perfectly the first time.

Iteration may involve: - adjusting values - changing conditions - simplifying interactions - removing unnecessary features

Iteration should improve clarity and playability.

Mechanics and Assessment¶

In AS92005, you are assessed on: - whether mechanics function correctly - whether mechanics support the game’s purpose - how mechanics changed during development

A game with many mechanics is not automatically better.

Looking Ahead¶

Next, you will learn: - how to improve games through iteration - how testing and feedback guide changes - how to manage scope effectively

Strong mechanics make iteration meaningful.

End of Game Mechanics