Final Deliverable - Identifying Game Elements(MDA) in DEEP
Mechanics, Dynamics & Aesthetics (MDA)
What exactly is the MDA framework?
The MDA framework was presented in a paper by Robin Hunicke, Marc LeBlanc and Robert Zubek.
Why would I want to learn about it?
I think understanding these three components and being able to identify them in other games is an invaluable asset. It helps in figuring out what makes a game fun and brings me one step closer to coming up with ideas for making fun games by mixing and matching the many mechanics and dynamics I identify ( I still can't get the idea of mixing the mechanics for Golfing and Tetris out of my head.)
How did I try to learn about MDA?
We were provided links to the paper and blogposts on MDA but I sorta ignored them in the beginning. Got most of my information from the workshop and jumped into practically trying to identify these 3 components in one of the 5 games they told us to pick from.
The game our group chose was Deep and I was horrible at it. I spent way too long trying to reach the end, but that didn't happen. I of course knew that I did not have to finish it, I just couldn't help myself. I guess that tells you a bit about the aesthetics of the game. Or my psyche. Β
I find it a bit difficult to categorize my research methods in a 'technical' way, but here they are:
Literature Study (Library): Went through the MDA paper.
Community Research (Library): Read the blogpost - Mechanics and Dynamics by Ian Schreiber
YouTube Video: Aesthetics of Play - Redefining Genres in Gaming - Extra Credits
Played the games to identify their Mechanics, Dynamics and Aesthetics.
What were the findings? (End Product)
I learnt what MDA were, how to identify them and how useful they can be. Our final product was a document listing out the MDA for Deep.
Link to MDA Findings for Deep
How did I validate these findings?
Mostly by comparing them with the feedback given by instructors to us and other similar findings.
How is/will this be helpful?β
It will be helpful when coming up with ideas for games. Having starting blocks like a few mechanics and aesthetic you want in a game can be a huge help in kicking the idea generating sessions off.
What are my next steps?β
I'm never playing games again, I'll be researching the MDAs in games from now on. Sounds way more productive and definitely a better excuse.
Jokes aside, I'm going to try and identify as many MDAs I come across in games I play and jot down ones I think I might enjoy using to come up with game ideas.