 Dynamics MDA: Human Dynamics

Where does the player fit into MDA? MDA is a cognitive approach. There are other approaches.

Player as Audience

 Aesthetics

Player as Component

 Mechanics

Player as Participant

 Dynamics

Game Dynamics We want to explain and predict the events of the activity. Science gives us Dynamic Models. “Rules”“Fun” “Activity”

Room Feedback System is One Example

Chance in 36 Die roll Example: Random Variable This is a model of 2d6:

No Grand Unified Theory

Q: What Dynamic Models can psychology provide?

The “Scourge Factor” How might this fail? SissyFight Is Someone Winning? Let’s gang up!Team Attack!

Example: Greed Catalyst Which game is harder?

PowerUps = Easier

Important details The powerup wears off – Creates an “optimality cliff” Turns enemies into scoring targets – Encourages riskier play “Greed Catalyst:” a “gift” that makes the player recklessly greedy.

The powerup changes the dynamics of play by changing the player’s behavior. Could convince players to diverge from a “safer” gang-up strategy.

Perception I can’t act on what I can’t perceive.

Change Blindness

Visual Noise

Attribution How people assign blame or credit.

Fundamental Attribution Error Our own choices are rational and situational. Other people’s choices are governed by personality and mood. Players might misdiagnose a “scourge” situation.

Self-Serving Bias Our successes are deliberate. Our failures are not our fault.

The Gunslinger’s Alibi When I win, it’s skill. When I lose, it’s luck.

Randomness is self-serving. Player is more tolerant of failure. Player is more stubborn about his choices. (Confirmation bias) No need to change course in order to bring down the scourge.

The Marshmallow Test

Cognitive Dissonance: You have to Eat It

 Aesthetics Some Aesthetic Implications

Gunslinger’s Alibi I can feel smart without making you feel dumb. Only if there’s some randomness. “Beginner’s Luck” Wizards’ 70/30 rule

Purloined Letter Something the player knows about, but still doesn’t see coming.

Gunslinger’s Alibi + Purloined Letter

Gunslinger’s Alibi + Purloined Letter =

 Aesthetics  Dynamics  Mechanics Are these separate? Separate views only

Discuss…