The Unpredictability of Gameplay explores the many forms of unpredictability in games and proposes a comprehensive theoretical framework for understanding and categorizing non-deterministic game mechanics. Rather than viewing all game mechanics with unpredictable outcomes as a single concept, Mark R. Johnson develops a three-part typology for such mechanics, distinguishing between randomness, chance, and luck in gameplay, assessing games that range from grand strategy and MMORPGs to slot machines and card games. He also explores forms of unanticipated unpredictability, where elements of games fail to function as intended and create new forms of gameplay in the process. Covering a range of game concepts using these frameworks, The Unpredictability of Gameplay then explores three illustrative case studies: 1) procedural generation, 2) replay value and grinding, and 3) player-made practices designed to reduce the level of luck in non-deterministic games. Throughout, Johnson demonstrates the importance of looking more deeply at unpredictability in games and game design and the various ways in which unpredictability manifests while offering an invaluable tool for game scholars and game designers seeking to integrate unpredictability into their work.
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1: Introduction: Unpredictable Play
Section I
2: Games with Randomness
3: Games of Chance
4: Games of Luck
5: Games with Instability
Section II
6: Procedural Generation
7: Replay Value and Grinding
8: The Negation of Unpredictability
Section III
9: Conclusion: A Framework for Non-Deterministic Games
Notes
Bibliography
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Unpredictability compels us to play games – now we know why. Johnson reveals that at the heart of gameplay is a deep philosophical question about how humans experience luck, chance and randomness.
This three-part typology of unpredictability in games provides the first critical framework for understanding non-deterministic forms of gameplay.
Provides the first academic discussion of and thorough theoretical framework for unpredictability in gameplay
Produktdetaljer
ISBN
9781501365041
Publisert
2020-06-25
Utgiver
Vendor
Bloomsbury Academic USA
Vekt
349 gr
Høyde
229 mm
Bredde
152 mm
Aldersnivå
U, 05
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Heftet
Antall sider
264
Forfatter