These include spatial reasoning, probability space, time limitations, network building, and memorizing complex chains of information. By this definition the theory of fun is applied using methodical techniques to enrich user-experience.

Video game designer, Jesse Schell describes that “a game is a problem solving activity approached with a playful attitude.” Something similar to what Brown proposed. While the traditional gamification theories apply in designing, the creators have to instill the holiday season mood in every aspect of the game to truly make it enjoyable for holiday players. Science suggests that when the brain is challenged, the body produces chemicals such as dopamine that elevates the mood.Īll this becomes even more amusing when designers and developers are making games for a special theme such as Christmas. New patterns and hurdles in the game create an element of fun, which by definition is anything that acts as a source of pleasure or enjoyment. In his book, Koster elucidates that the human brain needs constant stimulation to retrieve itself from getting trapped in the boredom zone. Brown’s research concludes two things: a) recreation leads to creativity and success, and b) play isn’t simply joyful, it’s a stimulant for human intelligence and development. So when we’re playing a game, our actions in real life affect our actions in the virtual world and this playful activity becomes pleasurable and exciting. Stuart Brown explains that play is directly associated with fun because it is an action that produces enjoyment. It’s surely the starting point of understanding the logic and strategy behind creating exhilarating games, but not the only one. It’s a unique how-to book that teaches interactive designers ways in which they can incorporate the element of fun in game designing to make them highly entertaining, engaging and addictive. Veteran game designer and entrepreneur, Raph Koster wrote an excellent book A Theory of Fun for Game Design.

Do we ever wonder how the game was made? As much as the duo sounds uncomfortable, we can’t detach game theory from fun and science. It’s true that the façade inspires us more than the skeleton. So when we’re talking about “having fun” games can’t be excluded, right? This is why I’m going to talk about game designing and development for Christmas.Īs players we overlook the design and development side and instead focus on the story-line, characters and challenges. Ho ho ho! Christmas is just days away and we’re all decked up with high-spirits to mark the end of 2018.

Gardenscapes christmas 2018