Game design vocabulary
in my own words
Play
An emergent mindset and behavior, in which one interacts with a game system, driven by curiosity and the anticipation of fun.
Gaming
Playing within a system of mechanics, often giving rise to game loops, and a measurable goal.
Gamification
Gamification is the practice of adding systems or words commonly used in gaming contexts, to something that is not intended as a game. Usually the aim is to induce game-like associations to a product or service.
Magic circle
Also known as “suspension of disbelief”, is the acceptance of rules and truths, particular to a designated game space. It enforces the designer’s intended mindset for the user, conferring in-game roles and purposes.
Serious game
A product in which the medium of games is used as a means to achieve a non-entertainment goal. This often concerns games for education, improving health, and corporate training.
Stealth serious game
A serious game that seeks to hide its non-entertaining intent. A term coined by one of my teachers.
Game loop
A system of mechanics and/or features feeding into each other, resulting in looping activities or actions for players.
Mindset
A conviction towards facts, and a tendency towards a certain pattern of thinking, acting and perception. May be induced for temporary roleplay in games.
Mechanics (MDA)
The factual components a game is made of; rules, visuals, audio, mechanics, etc.
Aesthetics (MDA)
The feelings, thoughts, and emotions of the player at any given time before, during or after the moment of interaction.
Empathy
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Cognitive load
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Pillars
Core values of a game/project. The category of which often varies between developers. Examples are: game core, context, and player philosophy.
Core experience
Component of Pillars; the main experience of your game, which can be independent of their medium.
Multi-axis level design
A term in level design to indicate the creation with intent of spaces on the horizontal and vertical axis.
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Bait (level design)
Objects or visuals in short travel distance from the player to lead them towards a specified location.
Lead
Leads are consistent and often uninterrupted visual elements in a traversable landscape that simply imply a route to follow, without revealing a destination per se.
Landmark
Landmarks are unique and easily recognizable visual elements that help users navigate through game spaces.
Bait (UXD)
Any reason that gives a user an interest in the mere mention of a product or service.
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Hook
That which has the user merit a try of a product or service.
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Trap
A reason for the user to come back to your product or service consistently for a sustainable duration.
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