Understanding the Distinction Between Features and Mechanics in Game Design

When it comes to game design, there are a lot of terms that can get thrown around, and it can be easy to get confused. Two such terms are “features” and “mechanics.” But what do these terms actually mean, and what is the difference between them? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of game design and explore the distinction between features and mechanics. Whether you’re a seasoned game designer or just starting out, understanding this distinction is crucial to creating engaging and successful games. So let’s get started!

What are game features?

Characteristics of game features

Game features are specific elements or aspects of a game that are designed to provide a particular experience or functionality to the player. Some of the key characteristics of game features are:

• Intuitive: Game features should be easy to understand and use. Players should be able to grasp the concept of a feature quickly and not require extensive instruction or explanation.
• Functional: Game features should serve a specific purpose and provide a meaningful experience to the player. They should be well-integrated into the game’s overall design and contribute to the overall goal or objective of the game.
• Consistent: Game features should be consistent throughout the game, both in terms of their functionality and their implementation. Inconsistencies can confuse players and detract from the overall experience.
• Balanced: Game features should be balanced in terms of their power level and impact on gameplay. Overpowered features can make the game too easy, while underpowered features can make the game too difficult.
• Varied: Game features should offer a variety of options and approaches to the player, allowing them to choose the approach that best suits their playstyle.
• Iterative: Game features should be iterative, meaning that they should be improved and refined over time through updates and patches. This allows developers to address player feedback and improve the overall experience of the game.

Overall, game features are a crucial aspect of game design, as they provide the player with the tools and experiences that drive the gameplay. By understanding the characteristics of game features, designers can create a more engaging and enjoyable experience for the player.

Importance of game features

Game features are the specific elements and functionalities that a game includes, which contribute to its overall gameplay experience. These features can range from storylines, characters, environments, graphics, and sound effects to more complex components such as multiplayer modes, customization options, and achievements.

The importance of game features lies in their ability to engage and retain players, create immersive gaming experiences, and differentiate games from one another in a highly competitive market.

One of the primary reasons why game features are so crucial is that they help to create a unique and memorable experience for players. For example, the distinctive characters, storylines, and environments in a game like “The Legend of Zelda” have contributed to its enduring popularity and critical acclaim.

Moreover, game features can also play a significant role in player retention and engagement. For instance, games with compelling storylines, challenging gameplay mechanics, and a wide range of customization options can keep players coming back for more, as they strive to unlock new achievements, complete challenging levels, or progress through the game’s narrative.

In addition, game features can help to differentiate a game from its competitors in a crowded market. By offering unique and innovative features, games can stand out from the crowd and attract a loyal fan base. For example, the battle royale genre’s popularity can be attributed in part to its innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the shrinking play area, which sets it apart from other first-person shooter games.

In conclusion, game features are a critical component of the gaming experience, as they contribute to player engagement, immersion, and differentiation. Understanding the importance of game features is essential for game designers, as it can help them create games that are both enjoyable and memorable for players.

What are game mechanics?

Definition of game mechanics

Game mechanics are the fundamental rules and systems that govern gameplay in a video game. They are the building blocks of the game, determining how players interact with the game world and how they progress through the game.

Game mechanics can be thought of as the underlying structure that supports the game’s features, such as the storyline or graphics. They define how players make decisions, how they accomplish objectives, and how they overcome challenges.

In essence, game mechanics are the rules that govern the game’s systems, while features are the elements that add depth and richness to the game’s world.

Some examples of game mechanics include:

• Movement: how players move their characters or camera through the game world
• Combat: how players engage in battles or other forms of conflict
• Resource management: how players gather, use, and manage resources such as money, items, or power
• Progression: how players level up, unlock new abilities, or advance through the game’s story.

Game mechanics are what make a game fun and engaging, challenging players to think strategically and use their problem-solving skills. Understanding the distinction between game mechanics and features is essential for game designers to create games that are both enjoyable and balanced.

Characteristics of game mechanics

Game mechanics are the fundamental rules and systems that govern the behavior of players and the game world. They define the way players interact with the game and determine the outcomes of their actions. Some key characteristics of game mechanics include:

• Interactivity: Game mechanics involve active participation from the player, who must make decisions and take actions within the game world.
• Feedback: Game mechanics provide players with feedback on their actions, whether it be through the game world’s response or through the player’s own interface with the game.
• Iterative: Game mechanics are often iterative, meaning that players can repeat actions and see the consequences of those actions change over time.
• Emergent: Game mechanics can sometimes lead to emergent gameplay, where unexpected outcomes arise from the interactions of multiple players or mechanics.
• Balance: Game mechanics must be balanced in order to create a fair and enjoyable experience for players.
• Clarity: Game mechanics should be clear and easy to understand, so that players can make informed decisions and engage with the game in a meaningful way.

Importance of game mechanics

Game mechanics are the rules and systems that govern the gameplay experience in a video game. They are the fundamental building blocks of any game, and are what determine how players interact with the game world. Understanding the importance of game mechanics is crucial for game designers, as they play a vital role in shaping the player’s experience and the overall success of the game.

Game mechanics are important because they create the rules and boundaries within which players can interact with the game world. They dictate how players can achieve objectives, how they can interact with other players, and how they can progress through the game. By creating clear and concise game mechanics, designers can help players understand the goals of the game and how to achieve them, which can lead to a more engaging and satisfying gameplay experience.

Additionally, game mechanics can also help to establish the balance and fairness of the game. By ensuring that all players have access to the same resources and abilities, designers can create a level playing field and prevent any one player from dominating the game. This can help to create a more competitive and enjoyable gameplay experience for all players.

Game mechanics also play a key role in driving player progression and encouraging player retention. By creating a system of rewards and challenges, designers can encourage players to continue playing and to strive to improve their skills. This can help to create a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction for players, which can help to keep them engaged with the game over time.

Overall, the importance of game mechanics cannot be overstated. They are the foundation upon which the gameplay experience is built, and are essential for creating a balanced, engaging, and rewarding gameplay experience for players. By understanding the importance of game mechanics, designers can create games that are not only fun to play, but also well-designed and balanced, which can help to ensure their long-term success.

Relationship between features and mechanics

Interplay between features and mechanics

In game design, features and mechanics are two essential elements that work together to create engaging and enjoyable gameplay experiences. While features are the specific attributes or functions that a game offers, mechanics are the underlying systems that govern how these features work together. The interplay between features and mechanics is crucial to the success of a game, as it determines how well the game is able to engage and retain players.

One way that features and mechanics interact is through the use of feedback loops. Feedback loops are a crucial part of game design, as they provide players with information about their progress and performance. When a player takes an action in a game, the game responds with feedback that tells the player whether their action was successful or not. This feedback loop helps players understand how the game mechanics work and how they can use them to achieve their goals.

Another way that features and mechanics interact is through the use of progression systems. Progression systems are a key element of many games, as they provide players with a sense of achievement and accomplishment as they progress through the game. Progression systems are typically based on game mechanics, such as leveling up, earning experience points, or unlocking new abilities or items. However, these progression systems are often tied to specific game features, such as quests, missions, or challenges.

The interplay between features and mechanics is also important for creating a sense of balance in a game. Game designers must carefully balance the different features and mechanics in a game to ensure that players are able to enjoy the game without becoming frustrated or overwhelmed. This balance is particularly important in multiplayer games, where players must compete or cooperate with each other. If one feature or mechanic is too powerful or overused, it can dominate the gameplay experience and make it less enjoyable for other players.

Overall, the interplay between features and mechanics is a critical aspect of game design. By understanding how these elements work together, game designers can create engaging and enjoyable gameplay experiences that keep players coming back for more.

Examples of features and mechanics in games

When discussing game design, it is essential to understand the distinction between features and mechanics. Features are the visible elements of a game that are meant to attract players, such as a visually stunning art style or a compelling storyline. Mechanics, on the other hand, are the underlying systems that drive the gameplay, such as the rules for movement or the mechanics for resolving conflicts.

Here are some examples of features and mechanics in popular games:

Features:

• Graphics: A game’s graphics are often its first impression and can include the visual style, character models, and environments. For example, the game Final Fantasy XV is known for its stunning visuals and detailed character models.
• Storyline: The storyline of a game is another important feature that can attract players. For example, the game The Last of Us has a compelling story that follows a post-apocalyptic world and the relationship between a young girl and her protector.

Mechanics:

• Combat system: The combat system in a game is an essential mechanic that governs how players interact with enemies. For example, the game Dark Souls has a unique combat system that emphasizes strategic timing and resource management.
• Progression system: The progression system in a game is another crucial mechanic that governs how players advance through the game. For example, the game Fallout 4 has a deep progression system that allows players to customize their character’s abilities and perks.

It is important to note that while features and mechanics are distinct aspects of game design, they are also interconnected. Features can enhance or detract from the overall experience of a game, while mechanics can be designed to support or hinder certain features. By understanding the relationship between features and mechanics, game designers can create more engaging and balanced games.

How do game designers balance features and mechanics?

The design process

Designing a game is a complex process that requires careful consideration of both features and mechanics. Game designers must strike a balance between these two elements to create an engaging and enjoyable experience for players. In this section, we will explore the design process and how game designers balance features and mechanics.

The first step in the design process is to define the game’s core concept. This involves identifying the genre, setting, and story elements that will form the foundation of the game. From there, designers must determine the features that will be included in the game, such as character creation, inventory systems, and quest structures.

Once the features have been identified, designers must focus on creating the mechanics that will support these features. This includes designing gameplay systems, such as combat, movement, and puzzle-solving, as well as implementing mechanics that encourage player exploration and progression.

Throughout the design process, game designers must continually balance the inclusion of new features with the development of supporting mechanics. This requires a deep understanding of player behavior and gameplay dynamics, as well as a keen eye for detail and a commitment to player experience.

Designers must also consider the player’s perspective and ensure that the game’s features and mechanics are intuitive and easy to understand. This requires a focus on user interface design and player feedback, as well as extensive playtesting to identify and address any issues or areas for improvement.

In summary, the design process for balancing features and mechanics in game design involves defining the game’s core concept, identifying features and mechanics, and continually balancing the inclusion of new elements with the development of supporting systems. Game designers must also consider the player’s perspective and focus on user interface design and playtesting to ensure a high-quality and engaging gaming experience.

Factors to consider

Game designers must consider several factors when balancing features and mechanics in a game. These factors include:

• Game genre: Different genres of games have different mechanics and features that are expected by players. For example, a first-person shooter game might prioritize mechanics such as aiming and shooting over features like a robust character creation system.
• Player expectations: Players have certain expectations based on their previous experiences with similar games. Designers must take these expectations into account when balancing features and mechanics.
• Playstyle preferences: Some players prefer games with a heavy emphasis on mechanics, while others prefer games with more features. Designers must cater to both types of players to create a well-rounded experience.
• Development resources: The amount of resources available for development can impact the balance between features and mechanics. For example, a small development team might prioritize mechanics over features due to limited time and resources.
• Gameplay goals: The goals of the game can also impact the balance between features and mechanics. For example, a game that prioritizes competition might focus more on mechanics, while a game that prioritizes storytelling might focus more on features.

Overall, game designers must carefully consider these factors when balancing features and mechanics in a game to create a cohesive and engaging experience for players.

Examples of successful balance

Designing a game that balances features and mechanics is a challenging task that requires careful consideration of various factors. Game designers must understand the relationship between these two elements and how they impact the overall gameplay experience. Here are some examples of successful balance in game design:

World of Warcraft

World of Warcraft is a popular massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that has achieved a remarkable balance between features and mechanics. The game has a vast world to explore, with a wide range of quests, dungeons, and raids. The game’s mechanics include a complex talent system, which allows players to customize their characters’ abilities, and a sophisticated crafting system that enables players to create items and equipment.

World of Warcraft’s success can be attributed to its ability to balance features and mechanics. The game’s designers have carefully crafted the game’s mechanics to support the game’s features, rather than overwhelming the player with too many options. For example, the game’s talent system allows players to choose from a wide range of abilities, but it also provides clear guidance on which abilities are most effective for each character class. This balance ensures that players have the freedom to customize their characters, but it also prevents the game from becoming overwhelming or confusing.

Minecraft

Minecraft is another game that has achieved a successful balance between features and mechanics. The game is a sandbox-style game that allows players to build and explore a blocky 3D world. The game’s mechanics include a building system that allows players to create complex structures, a survival system that requires players to gather resources and fend off hostile creatures, and a crafting system that enables players to create tools and weapons.

Minecraft’s success can be attributed to its simplicity. The game’s designers have focused on a small set of core mechanics that are easy to understand and use. The game’s building system is particularly notable, as it allows players to create complex structures using a simple set of tools. This balance ensures that players have the freedom to create and explore, but it also prevents the game from becoming overwhelming or confusing.

Fortnite

Fortnite is a popular battle royale game that has achieved a successful balance between features and mechanics. The game’s mechanics include a building system that allows players to create structures and defenses, a shooting system that requires players to aim and shoot accurately, and a loot system that rewards players with new weapons and items.

Fortnite’s success can be attributed to its simplicity and accessibility. The game’s designers have focused on a small set of core mechanics that are easy to understand and use. The game’s building system is particularly notable, as it allows players to create complex structures using a simple set of tools. This balance ensures that players have the freedom to create and explore, but it also prevents the game from becoming overwhelming or confusing.

Overall, these examples demonstrate that achieving a successful balance between features and mechanics is essential for creating a successful game. Game designers must carefully consider the relationship between these two elements and how they impact the overall gameplay experience. By focusing on a small set of core mechanics and supporting features, game designers can create games that are both engaging and accessible to players.

How do players perceive features and mechanics?

Player experience

Player experience is a critical factor in determining how players perceive features and mechanics in a game. The way a player interacts with a game can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the game’s design, the player’s personal preferences, and the context in which the game is played.

In order to understand how players perceive features and mechanics, it is important to consider the following:

• Game mechanics: Game mechanics refer to the rules and systems that govern gameplay. They are the underlying systems that govern how the game works, and they can include things like resource management, turn-based play, or real-time action. Players tend to perceive game mechanics as the “rules” of the game, and they often judge the quality of a game based on how well these mechanics are implemented.
• Game features: Game features refer to the specific elements of a game that are designed to enhance the player experience. These can include things like new characters, weapons, levels, or storylines. Players tend to perceive game features as the “content” of the game, and they often judge the quality of a game based on how much they enjoy the content.
• Player preferences: Player preferences can also play a role in how players perceive features and mechanics. Some players may prefer games with complex mechanics, while others may prefer games with simpler mechanics. Similarly, some players may prefer games with a lot of content, while others may prefer games with less content. Understanding player preferences is essential for designing games that will appeal to a wide range of players.

Overall, player experience is a key factor in determining how players perceive features and mechanics in a game. By understanding how players interact with games, game designers can create experiences that are engaging, challenging, and enjoyable for players of all types.

Impact on player engagement

Player engagement is a critical factor in the success of a game. Features and mechanics play a significant role in determining how players perceive and interact with a game.

Features are typically the visual and auditory elements of a game, such as graphics, sound effects, and music. They can also include the game’s storyline, characters, and environments. Players tend to be drawn to games with engaging features that create an immersive experience. However, features alone do not guarantee player engagement.

Mechanics, on the other hand, refer to the rules and systems that govern gameplay. This includes gameplay mechanics such as the player’s abilities, controls, and challenges. Mechanics are the underlying structure of a game that determine how players interact with the game world. Players tend to be more engaged with games that have well-designed mechanics that provide a sense of accomplishment and progression.

In order to maximize player engagement, it is important for game designers to understand the distinction between features and mechanics. By focusing on both, designers can create games that offer an immersive experience while also providing engaging gameplay mechanics. Additionally, designers should consider how players perceive features and mechanics and tailor their designs accordingly. For example, incorporating social features such as leaderboards and online multiplayer can increase player engagement by providing a sense of competition and community.

Player expectations

When it comes to player expectations, it is important to note that players tend to perceive features and mechanics differently. Features are typically viewed as the tangible aspects of a game, such as graphics, sound effects, and user interface. On the other hand, mechanics are seen as the underlying systems and rules that govern gameplay.

Players have certain expectations when it comes to features and mechanics. For example, they expect a game to have clear and concise instructions, intuitive controls, and an appealing visual design. These expectations are often shaped by the player’s prior experiences with similar games and their own personal preferences.

However, it is important to note that player expectations can vary greatly between different types of games. For instance, a player may have different expectations for a casual mobile game compared to a complex role-playing game. Therefore, game designers must take into account the specific genre and target audience when designing features and mechanics to ensure that player expectations are met or exceeded.

The future of features and mechanics in game design

Emerging trends

In the world of game design, the distinction between features and mechanics is becoming increasingly important as the industry continues to evolve. As technology advances and new platforms emerge, game designers are exploring new ways to engage players and create immersive experiences. Here are some emerging trends in the future of features and mechanics in game design:

Increased focus on player agency

One of the most significant emerging trends in game design is a focus on player agency. This means giving players more control over their in-game experiences and allowing them to make meaningful choices that impact the outcome of the game. For example, in a role-playing game, players might be able to choose which quests to complete and in what order, or they might be able to make decisions that affect the relationships between characters.

The rise of live service games

Another emerging trend in game design is the rise of live service games. These are games that are designed to be played over a long period of time, with new content and features being added regularly. Examples of live service games include Fortnite, Apex Legends, and League of Legends. These games often have complex mechanics that are designed to keep players engaged over time, such as progression systems, seasonal events, and daily challenges.

The use of procedural generation

Procedural generation is a technique that involves using algorithms to generate content in games. This can be used to create vast, unique worlds that are different every time a player plays the game. Procedural generation is often used in games that are focused on exploration, such as the No Man’s Sky series. It can also be used to create randomized levels or enemies, which adds a new level of challenge and replayability to games.

The importance of accessibility

Accessibility in game design is becoming increasingly important as more players with diverse needs and abilities enter the gaming industry. This includes designing games that are easy to play for people with disabilities, as well as designing games that are inclusive of different cultures and identities. Some game designers are also exploring ways to make games more accessible to people who are not fluent in English, which is becoming increasingly important as the global gaming community continues to grow.

Overall, the future of features and mechanics in game design is bright, with new trends and techniques emerging all the time. As technology continues to advance and new platforms emerge, game designers will have even more tools at their disposal to create immersive, engaging experiences for players.

Challenges and opportunities

Challenges

• Balancing the need for innovation with the risk of overcomplicating gameplay
• Ensuring that new features and mechanics enhance the overall gaming experience rather than detracting from it
• Keeping up with the rapid pace of technological advancements and the changing preferences of gamers

Opportunities

• Leveraging emerging technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality to create immersive gaming experiences
• Expanding the range of genres and game types to cater to diverse player preferences
• Exploring new business models and monetization strategies, such as free-to-play and subscription-based models, to sustain the industry’s growth
• Encouraging collaboration and knowledge-sharing among game developers to foster innovation and creativity in the field

The role of technology

In the world of game design, technology has played a crucial role in shaping the future of features and mechanics. With advancements in hardware and software, game developers have been able to push the boundaries of what is possible in terms of immersive gaming experiences. Here are some ways in which technology has influenced the future of features and mechanics in game design:

• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): VR and AR technologies have opened up new possibilities for game designers to create immersive gaming experiences. By incorporating these technologies into their designs, game developers can create environments that feel more real than ever before. For example, VR games like Superhot and Beat Saber have taken advantage of VR technology to create unique gameplay mechanics that would not be possible on traditional consoles or PCs.
• Cloud Gaming: Cloud gaming technology has made it possible for players to access games from any device with an internet connection. This has enabled game developers to create games that are more accessible and convenient for players. For example, Fortnite has taken advantage of cloud gaming technology to allow players to play the game on a wide range of devices, from smartphones to gaming PCs.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI technology has enabled game developers to create more intelligent and adaptive game mechanics. For example, AI can be used to create non-playable characters (NPCs) that are more realistic and unpredictable, or to create dynamic game environments that react to player behavior. As AI technology continues to improve, it is likely that we will see even more advanced game mechanics in the future.
• New Input Devices: New input devices such as motion controllers and haptic feedback suits have enabled game designers to create more intuitive and immersive gameplay mechanics. For example, motion controllers have allowed game designers to create more realistic and intuitive movements in VR games, while haptic feedback suits have allowed players to feel physical sensations while playing games.

Overall, technology has played a significant role in shaping the future of features and mechanics in game design. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative and immersive gaming experiences in the years to come.

Recap of key points

In the realm of game design, it is essential to understand the distinction between features and mechanics. Features are the visual and auditory elements that make up a game, such as the graphics, sound effects, and music. Mechanics, on the other hand, refer to the rules and systems that govern gameplay, such as the player’s abilities, the goals of the game, and the constraints on the player’s actions.

As game design continues to evolve, it is crucial to understand the role that features and mechanics play in creating engaging and immersive experiences for players. In this article, we will explore the differences between features and mechanics, and how they can be used together to create a compelling gameplay experience.

One of the key differences between features and mechanics is that features are typically focused on the visual and auditory aspects of a game, while mechanics are focused on the rules and systems that govern gameplay. Features are designed to create a specific atmosphere or mood, while mechanics are designed to create a sense of challenge and engagement for the player.

Another important distinction between features and mechanics is that features are often designed to be visible and accessible to the player, while mechanics are often more subtle and require players to explore and experiment to discover their full potential. For example, a feature such as a flashy explosion might be used to create a sense of excitement and spectacle, while a mechanic such as a puzzle or obstacle might be used to challenge the player and encourage them to think creatively.

In the future of game design, it is likely that we will see an increasing emphasis on the role of mechanics in creating engaging and immersive experiences for players. As game technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more complex and sophisticated mechanics that challenge players in new and exciting ways. At the same time, we can also expect to see an increased focus on the visual and auditory aspects of games, as developers strive to create more immersive and engaging experiences for players.

Overall, understanding the distinction between features and mechanics is crucial for game designers who want to create engaging and immersive experiences for players. By focusing on both the visual and auditory aspects of a game, as well as the rules and systems that govern gameplay, designers can create games that are both visually stunning and challenging for players to master.

Final thoughts on the importance of features and mechanics in game design

As game design continues to evolve, it is essential to understand the distinction between features and mechanics. Both play a crucial role in the design process, but they serve different purposes. Features are the visible elements of a game, such as the graphics, sound effects, and storyline. Mechanics, on the other hand, are the underlying systems that govern how the game works, such as the rules, controls, and physics.

Understanding the difference between features and mechanics is crucial for game designers because it helps them create a balanced and engaging experience for players. For example, a game with stunning graphics and a compelling storyline may lack engaging mechanics, leading to a lackluster experience for players. On the other hand, a game with excellent mechanics but poor graphics and storyline may not be as visually appealing, but it can still be enjoyable to play.

Moreover, understanding the distinction between features and mechanics can help game designers create games that cater to different player preferences. Some players may prioritize mechanics over features, while others may prioritize features over mechanics. By understanding these preferences, game designers can create games that appeal to a broader audience.

In conclusion, features and mechanics are both important aspects of game design, but they serve different purposes. Understanding the distinction between them can help game designers create more balanced and engaging experiences for players. By catering to different player preferences, game designers can create games that appeal to a broader audience, ultimately leading to greater success in the industry.

FAQs

1. What are features in game design?

Features in game design refer to specific elements or characteristics of a game that contribute to its overall experience. These can include things like the game’s storyline, art style, character design, sound effects, and music. Features are what make a game stand out and differentiate it from other games in the market.

2. What are mechanics in game design?

Mechanics in game design refer to the rules and systems that govern how a game works. These can include things like player movement, resource management, turn-based gameplay, and player interactions with the game world. Mechanics are what give a game its structure and determine how players interact with the game.

3. How do features and mechanics differ in game design?

Features and mechanics differ in that features are focused on the overall experience of the game, while mechanics are focused on the rules and systems that govern gameplay. Features are often used to create a game’s unique atmosphere and appeal, while mechanics are used to create a sense of challenge and progression for players. Features are often tied to the game’s story and setting, while mechanics are more concerned with the game’s systems and rules.

4. Are features and mechanics equally important in game design?

Features and mechanics are both important in game design, but they serve different purposes. Features help to create a game’s overall experience and appeal, while mechanics help to create a sense of challenge and progression for players. Both are necessary for a game to be successful, but they should be balanced to create a cohesive and enjoyable experience for players.

5. Can a game have too many features or mechanics?

Yes, a game can have too many features or mechanics. If a game has too many features, it can become overwhelming for players and detract from the overall experience. Similarly, if a game has too many mechanics, it can become too complex and difficult for players to understand and enjoy. It’s important for game designers to balance the number of features and mechanics in their games to create a cohesive and enjoyable experience for players.