What is a game?

I posed that question previously, but I don’t really think it’s a question for which we’ll ever come to a satisfactory answer. It’s like asking what is art. It’s too broad a thing with too many interpretations.

As with the question of art, it’s still one worth asking because it can lead to interesting places, but it’s no use bothering to look for an answer.

How about we narrow our focus then:

What is in a game?

Or, even more specific:

What ingredients make a game good?

Now that’s a much more useful question. Answers will still vary—wildly—but at least considering this one leads down a more direct path.

That said, let’s focus on the intersection of these essential questions. The basic attributes I’d expect to find in most games are also the necessary building blocks for a good game.

I’ve heard one person describe a game as “A willing acceptance of unnecessary rules.”

I find that fun, even a bit whimsical, but not too practical.

Here’s what I’ve come up with:

A game is an experience where one or more players make choices that lead to an outcome.

I’m sure there are many exceptions, but hey, at least it’s a start!

That definition gives us four elements (or ingredients):

• Experience

• Player(s)

• Choices

• Outcome

Now a game may have all of those and still not be very good. What if we modify them to get something more desirable? In that case, I believe a good game has:

• Memorable experience

• Engaged player(s)

• Important choices

• Satisfying outcome

Are there other things that go into making a game good? For sure!

Is there a lot of personal preference and opinion thrown in the mix? Most definitely.

Still, I find this to be a great starting place. How about you?

Let’s dive into each of those bits later on, alrighty?