Mechanical design in video games involves many different aspects of the gameplay, such as movement, combat and progression. Each section within a game will have many different mechanics holding it together into a fully functioning system. Since mechanics determine what is possible for the player to do it is the foundation for gameplay. So what are the different types of mechanics?
In the games design industry there are three main types of mechanics.
- Action Mechanics
Action mechanics are one of the most common in video games. They involve controlling the player character and what objects they are able to interact with. With our game kinetic panic we will be implementing many different mechanics of this type. Since the nature of our game is a platforming, parkour type game the ability for the player to move and interact with different objects is essentially important to the functionality of our game.
- Strategy Mechanics
These mechanics involve the players ability to strategize and solve puzzles, find hidden objects, manage resources and progress. With the nature of kinetic panic being more simplistic and a more traditionally ‘cosy’ style game this is something that shouldn’t affect our gameplay very much. This is still an aspect that could be implemented into the game in a later stage of development but as of now we are trying to keep it as a cosy and non strategic style game.
- Exploration mechanics
Exploration mechanics as the name suggests refers to player exploration, this is what allows players to unlock later levels and different areas of a map. This mechanic can also refer to hidden areas or features of a map as it interests the player into exploring the map more fully. Considering kinetic panic is a game that is going to have many different levels of progression this is a category that is going to be implemented into the game consistently.
- The importance of game mechanics?
Gameplay mechanics play a critical role in maintaining a consistent flow throughout a video game, from exploration, interaction, strategy mechanics are the foundation point for gameplay. They support the overall functionality of the game, as they guid how players interact and engage with the gameworld. It is important that your game mechanics are well designed and thought out to ensure a coherent and consistent yet enjoyable gameplay.
This is why gameplay mechanics must also align with the logic and setting of your Gameworld, having mechanics and interactions that feel out of place can and will ruin the consistency of your game.