ABSTRACT
Whether in 2D or 3D, the playfield for a game has to be appropriate for the game world and enjoyable to explore. There should be surprises for players to stumble upon as well as dangers to face. There should also be logic to the way the playfield is constructed so the players can figure out how to get through the map without getting completely lost or having to retrace their steps in search of some unobvious path to a new area. Secret paths, of course, can lead to hidden areas with extra goodies, but the main pathway through an area should always be obvious. Good map/level design can make or break a game, so designers must understand the basics of what goes into building a playfield.
