Before taking 247G, I never gave much thought to the intricacies of play and game design. As a kid, I enjoyed classic board games like Monopoly, Clue, and Catan, which provided endless entertainment. However, I never considered the possibility of actually designing games myself. Games felt like just something I played, not something I could actually have a part in creating.
Throughout this course, many of the Critical plays that I did were eye-opening. Not identifying as an avid gamer, these sessions exposed me to a wide range of games I likely wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. Observing and analyzing the different mechanics, narratives, and player experiences across games was crucial in helping me understand the true depth and diversity present in the gaming world.
One of the most impactful concepts was the idea of “playing like a feminist.” This framework revealed the pervasive sexism embedded in many games, something I had been completely oblivious to previously. Applying this critical lens has fundamentally shifted how I view and engage with games moving forward. I now remain actively aware of and committed to challenging sexist elements.
The Mechanics, Dynamics, and Aesthetics (MDA) framework was another significant takeaway. Understanding how these three components dynamically interact to shape a cohesive player experience was fascinating. I learned that even small adjustments to core mechanics could radically alter the overall dynamics and aesthetic experience. This insight proved invaluable when I began designing my own games.
Implementing the MDA framework into my design projects was both challenging and rewarding. Piecing together different components to achieve an intended experience required a great deal of tinkering, iteration, and problem-solving – far more than I had anticipated. With each cycle, however, I became more adept at identifying issues and refining my designs accordingly.
The two major projects we tackled significantly elevated my skills in systematic reflection and iterative design. Despite the difficulties, the entire experience was incredibly gratifying. I now deeply appreciate the value of the game design process and the satisfaction of crafting an engaging player experience.
Looking ahead, I feel much more confident in my abilities as a game designer. The foundational knowledge and hands-on experience I’ve gained have provided me with a solid grasp of core design principles. Even if I don’t actively pursue game design, I know I will apply these learnings to enhance my general creativity and appreciation for the art of making games.
In reflecting on this course, it has been truly transformative in expanding my perspective on play and the potential of game design. The new skills and mindset I’ve developed will undoubtedly shape my approach to gaming for years to come.
Overall, I LOVED THIS CLASS!! Genuinely this class has been my favorite class I’ve taken at Stanford. In addition to learning a lot, I had so much fun. The class allowed me to truly feel like a kid again, and reignited my love for gaming. I have recommended this class to anyone who will listen to me.
