Game design is the way that a game is created in terms of gameplay and aesthetics in order to facilitate the highest level of interaction between players and the game possible. The gaming industry has grown significantly as new forms of gaming have developed. Particularly with the growth of the mobile market due to smartphones and social gaming due to Facebook, new types of games are being developed. There are many factors that need to be taken into account when designing a game.
Game Design
When designing a game, there are a number of elements to consider. The rules and tools of play are basic elements of a game. Luck vs strategy games and single vs multi-player games will impact how the game is designed. The storyline and plot are very important. Graphics, sounds, music and color scheme are all important factors in attracting your target audience.
External Factors to Consider
Part of designing a successful game is considering external factors. These may include your target audience, or the group of people the developer wants to attract. You will need to consider age range and type of gamer – hard core or casual, as well as where the game will be offered. Gender is a big consideration with video games more popular with males, while social gaming is more popular with females. The developer will need to consider social and cultural factors based on the target audience, as well as nationality and religion. Other important factors to consider include legal issues and politics.
Game Style
Based on the target audience, designers can now begin to design a game that will be most suitable for their target audience. There will be some cross-over, for example while social gaming is more popular with females, males will also play these game; however, in terms of game design, they will be designed with the female audience primarily in mind. In general, it has been found that the female market enjoys simple and set rules, short levels and crisp, bright colors, compared to the male audience which prefers action and the need for hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes.
Game Examples
Candy Crush is a casual game that is hugely popular. As a casual game, it appeals primarily to a female audience and it has been designed with quick levels that only take a few minutes, frequent rewards, simple rules and tasks, lots of visual and auditory cues and bright colors. Play at http://candycrushsaga.com/.
Call of Duty is an action-filled war game with an emphasis on sound delivery. It appeals to a male audience and did require censoring in Germany where it required the removal of any references to the Nazi Party. It can be played at https://www.callofduty.com/.
Gladiator is a popular slots game based on the blockbuster film of the same name. The game designers included crisp graphics from the film, as well as soundtrack and film clips. It is a favorite among anyone who enjoyed the film. It can be played at au.slotsheaven.com.
