- What are video game mechanics?
Video game mechanics define the way in which players interact with a game, they are the underlying systems of gameplay. they consist of rules, gameplay and interactive elements that the player has to navigate directly effecting the gameplay. No matter a games complexity gameplay mechanics are something that will always be involved in the creation of a game, even the most basic mechanics play a critical role in the functionality of a game.
More often then not there is one main gameplay mechanic of a game that is then built upon. This main mechanic is often the interest point of a game, whether that be fighting, farming or platforming. So how can you build a basic mechanic such as the platforming in Kinetic panic and create something of interest?
- Good Mechanics In Video Games
Portal 2 at its fundamentals is a puzzle game, yet it manages to stand out amongst other titles within the same genre through its innovative portal mechanic. Giving players the ability to place and create their own portals to move freely throughout the Gameworld and to complete puzzles in a unique way. By allowing the player this added movement it introduces a very unique and creative aspect to its overall gameplay. This mechanic is what allowed portal 2 to stand out amongst its counterparts and gain long lasting popularity within the gaming community.
The portal mechanic is not only the main component to its gameplay but it is also integrated into the game’s narrative and world building. This link between the core mechanic and the story enhances player immersion by allowing the player to interact with the environment in a cohesive and justified way. Mechanic integration such as this can significantly impact and improve the player immersion and therefore overall investment from the player. Being able to employing a similar affect within our game is something we should be aiming for.
Unravel two much like portal 2 is a puzzle based game that has a unique gameplay mechanic, but unlike portal 2 the core gameplay for unravel two is a platformer style game. Being a multiplayer game they introduce a compelling twist in mechanics as the players are tied together. With the player characters being physically connected this forces players to work more cordionately together in order to complete puzzles and work their way through the game. This mechanic effectively adds depth to its core gameplay and works well with the multiplayer style of cooperation, this is what makes this game stand out against its counterparts. Having a fun, compelling mechanic forcing players to work together.
Good gameplay mechanics are fundamental to the player experience and even the games overall success. As we’ve seen both portal 2, and unravel two have creative and innovative gameplay mechanics that help them stand out against counterparts and make them overall a more enjoyable experience. In portal 2 the portal mechanic is both engaging for players and fits well within the story and gameworld. Similarly unravel two includes its mechanic of conjoining the players together to re enforce its themes of cooperative gameplay and collaboration. It is important for any game in development including our own to design mechanics that are not only engaging and unique but also enjoyable for the player in a way that ties in with your gameworld. By doing this you can ensure a more immersive, cohesive and fun experience for the player.