What Makes a Game?

Game is a term used to describe activities undertaken for entertainment or fun. Games can be anything from a traditional board game to a virtual world that is simulated on a computer screen. They are often played by people who enjoy competition and are also commonly referred to as toys or playthings. Games can be played with friends, family, colleagues or even strangers. Many people who play games are motivated by the desire to compete against others or simply want to test their skills and strategy against the AI in a virtual environment. Other motivations may include a desire to learn or simply to socialize with friends and family. These motivations can be influenced by the formal rules and constraints of a game or other intrinsic factors that encourage continued play such as a desire to explore, challenge themselves, socialize and achieve according to Bartle’s player taxonomy.

It has been suggested that the definition of game should be broadened to include more types of activities as some consider games to be art (like jigsaw puzzles), work (like professional spectator sports) or both (such as video games). While mechanics and rules are a major part of the formal elements and ludological agreement that defines games, it is important to remember that they only make up a small portion of the overall picture when trying to understand what makes something a game.

The most important thing to remember is that a game is a structured activity that has certain ludological aspects and constraints that must be fulfilled for it to qualify as a game. Despite this, the concept of game is very fluid and is constantly changing and evolving. This is due to new players, designers and artists experimenting with new forms of games that are pushing the boundaries of the classic definitions of a game.

There are many different interpretations of what makes a game, some more valid than others. For example, Bernard Suits has described game play as the “voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles.” This is a very interesting and valid interpretation of game play as it addresses both the magic circle of game play and the need for players to surmount challenges within that magic circle.

In the video game industry, it is common for games to be in production for 1 to 4 years before they are released to consumers. During this time, the story is refined, all assets (characters, creatures, props and environments) are created, gameplay mechanics are tested and balanced, levels and worlds are built, code is written and so much more. During this process, it is not uncommon for placeholder assets to be used as a cost-saving measure until the final, high-quality version of an asset can be produced.

Once the game is finished, it is usually published on a variety of platforms. Some of these platforms support additional feedback mechanisms for the game to take advantage of. This is most commonly seen with haptic technology in the form of vibrations that are transferred from the controller to the user’s hands. This helps to provide a more immersive gaming experience and enhance the sense of presence.