1. CIS 487/587 Bruce R. Maxim UM-Dearborn
Mechanics and Scope
CIS 487/587
Bruce R. Maxim
UM-Dearborn
4/25/2019

2. Scope Creep What is it? Who causes it?
Causes schedule slippage big time
Removing features can cause unintended consequences
4/25/2019

3. Why add mechanics? Stakeholder demand Changes in the marketplace
Sequel already planned
Game sucks
The brainstorm (team vision of grandeur)
4/25/2019

4. Why cut mechanics? To get a particular ESEB rating
To make a delivery deadline
Mechanic fails to match core game vision
Incompatible with other mechanics
Normal tinkering (change it, play it, evaluate, repeat) because game sucks
4/25/2019

5. Add a Mechanic
Assume your play testers find your 2D game prototype boring (they grow weary of mindless shooting and object collection)
Work with your partner to come up with new game mechanic (game state interaction rule) to maintain player interest in your game
What is the impact on your existing game if you were to implement the new game mechanic?
4/25/2019

6. Feature Tradeoff
Assume you do not have the resources to implement all your game elements
Pick a game mechanic (game state interaction rule) to remove from your game
Redesign your game with that game mechanic removed
Is your game better or worse after the redesign? Why?
4/25/2019