ABSTRACT

This book helps you to create the digital games you love to play, using a non-technical approach to game design without the need for programming or artistic experience.

Award-winning author Tracy Fullerton demystifies the creative process with clear and accessible guidance on the formal and dramatic systems of game design. Using examples of popular games, illustrations of design techniques, and refined exercises to strengthen your understanding of how game systems function, the book gives you the skills and tools necessary to create a compelling and engaging game.

This fully updated 4th edition includes expanded coverage of new platforms and genres of play, including casual games and games for learning. It expands on agile development processes and includes a host of new perspectives from top industry game designers.


Game Design Workshop puts you to work prototyping, playtesting, and revising your own games with time-tested methods and tools. These skills will provide the foundation for your career in any facet of the game industry including design, producing, programming, and visual design.

part |2 pages

Part 1 Game Design Basics

chapter 1|28 pages

The Role of the Game Designer

chapter 2|26 pages

The Structure of Games

chapter 3|40 pages

Working with Formal Elements

chapter 4|32 pages

Working with Dramatic Elements

chapter 5|38 pages

Working with System Dynamics

part |2 pages

Part 2 Designing a Game

chapter 6|34 pages

Conceptualization

chapter 7|38 pages

Prototyping

chapter 8|36 pages

Digital Prototyping

chapter 9|34 pages

Playtesting

chapter 10|38 pages

Functionality, Completeness, and Balance

chapter 11|40 pages

Fun and Accessibility

part |2 pages

Part 3 Working as a Game Designer

chapter 12|32 pages

Team Structures

chapter 13|26 pages

Stages and Methods of Development

chapter 14|22 pages

Communicating Your Designs

chapter 15|22 pages

Understanding the New Game Industry