Critical play: skribbl.io
Game description:
skribbl.io is an online multiplayer drawing and guessing game that offers a unique take on the “Judging Games” genre. In this report, we analyze various aspects of the game, including its critical formal elements, how it creates a fun experience, and how it compares to other games in its genre. We also offer suggestions for improvement and consider the game’s mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics.
The name of the game: skribbl.io
Creator: ticedev
Platform: Web browser-based
Target Audience:
skribbl.io is aimed at a broad audience, with its simple interface and easy-to-understand gameplay. The game’s messaging and in-game elements suggest that it is intended for players aged 13 and up. However, the game can also be enjoyed by younger players under adult supervision, as it encourages creativity and critical thinking.
Critical Formal Elements:
skribbl.io is a multiplayer game that can host 2-12 players per room. Each game consists of several rounds, with the number of rounds chosen by the room creator. In each round, a player is selected to draw a word, while the other players attempt to guess the word based on the drawing. The drawer can choose one of three words provided by the game. Players can take the following actions:
- Drawing: The selected player must draw the chosen word using the available drawing tools.
- Guessing: The other players must guess the word by typing their guesses into the chatbox.
- Voting to kick: If the majority of players feel that a player is behaving inappropriately or not following the rules, they can vote to kick the player from the game.
The game implements a point system, where players earn points based on the speed and accuracy of their guesses. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Types of Fun and Compelling Elements:
skribbl.io mainly offers 3 types of fun;
Expression: Players have the opportunity to express themselves through their drawings and exercise their artistic skills.
Competition: The point system encourages players to compete against one another and try to outguess their opponents.
Challenge: The game challenges players to think quickly and make accurate guesses based on limited visual information.
What Makes the Game Work and Areas for Improvement:
skribbl.io works well due to its simple concept, easy-to-understand gameplay, and engaging challenge it presents. The game’s mechanics, including the drawing tools and point system, are straightforward and accessible, making it easy for new players to jump in and enjoy the game.
Potential ideas for improvement in game designs include:
- Word variety: Expanding the word pool and including more diverse and challenging words could enhance the game’s replayability and maintain player interest.
- Drawing tools: Offering additional drawing tools and options, such as different brushes and colours, could allow for more creative and detailed drawings.
- Moderation: Implementing better moderation tools and guidelines could help maintain a positive and welcoming environment for all players.
Comparison to Other Games in the Genre:
Compared to other Judging Games like Cards Against Humanity, skribbl.io offers a more interactive and visually engaging experience. While Cards Against Humanity relies on pre-written text, skribbl.io encourages players to create their content through drawings. This aspect sets skribbl.io apart from other games in the genre and provides a more dynamic and creative gameplay experience.
Playing Like a Game Designer:
Mechanics: The core mechanics of skribbl.io include drawing, guessing, and earning points. These mechanics are simple yet effective in facilitating engaging gameplay. The point system incentivizes players to guess quickly and accurately, while the drawing mechanic encourages creativity and expression.
Dynamics: The game’s dynamics involve the interactions between players, the competition for points, and the tension created by the time limit for guessing. These dynamics contribute to the game’s overall fun and excitement, as players strive to outperform their opponents and create recognizable drawings under pressure.
Aesthetics: The dynamics of creating tension between players enforce the aesthetics of challenge and competition. The wide variety of drawing tools to communicate offers an aesthetic of expression! Skribbl.io also features a minimalist and straightforward aesthetic, with simple drawing tools and a clean interface. The focus remains on the drawings and guesses rather than extraneous visual elements.
In conclusion, skribbl.io is a compelling online game that offers a unique take on the Judging Games genre. Its simple mechanics, engaging dynamics, and minimalist aesthetics create a fun and challenging experience for players of all ages. The game could be improved by expanding word variety, enhancing drawing tools, and implementing better moderation and customization options. However, despite these areas for improvement, skribbl.io stands out among other games in its genre and provides an enjoyable, creative, and interactive gameplay experience.
