Drive by the Player Experience

Most forms of software exist to solve a problem. Productivity tools, communication platforms, and utilities all derive their value from the problems they help users overcome. Games, however, are different. Their value is intrinsic. They are not designed to fix something in a player’s life but to provide experiences that are meaningful and rewarding in their own right.

These experiences emerge from the careful interplay of many elements—gameplay, story, animation, art, visual effects, audio, and more. The way these parts are composed and balanced ultimately defines the player experience.

For instance, a team striving to create a game where players build deep emotional connections with characters will naturally invest more in writing, performance, and cinematic presentation. Meanwhile, a team focused on creating a competitive esport will prioritize the refinement of moment-to-moment gameplay, responsiveness, and balance.

The critical first step is clarity of intent: What kind of experience are we trying to create for players? Once this vision is defined, every aspect of development should align around it. From leadership choices and organizational structure to development practices and even team rituals, all should be designed in service of the player experience we aspire to deliver.

When we consistently drive by the player experience, we craft games that resonate—games that delight our players.

Let’s go make a great game!