I really enjoy Stardew Valley, a game that follows the loop–arc–loop architecture, or the cutscene–gameplay–cutscene “sandwich.” The game’s basic loops involve collecting resources, socializing, gifting, and crafting. These repetitive actions teach you the skills necessary to “level up” in the game, whether by earning money, expanding your farm, or building relationships with the townspeople. Over time, these small loops accumulate into larger narrative arcs, most clearly seen in heart events that occur when you reach a certain level of closeness with a dateable NPC. In these moments, you walk into an evocative scene, learn more about the characters, and interact through dialogue choices. Similar cutscenes also appear when you complete Community Center bundles, where magical creatures restore parts of the town and make it feel more lively.
It’s important to mention that these arcs constitute less than 5% of the game. Most of the time, the farmer is simply hard at work in the mines or on the farm, since arcs are expensive and the game is not especially narrative-centered. However, I really appreciate this sandwich architecture because it adds emotional depth to the otherwise simple farming and mining mechanics. It gives you a glimpse of the soul of the town and makes you feel more connected to it.
