Description: This lecture begins by exploring what a game is (and isn’t) and defining the terms “mechanic” and “dynamic”. Designers identify the core mechanic and dynamic of a game to help guide iterative playtesting and optimization.

Instructors/speakers: Philip Tan, Jason Begy

Related Resources

[CGD] Chapter 1

Zimmerman, Eric. “Play as Research: The Iterative Design Process.” July 8, 2003.