I still vividly remember the first time I encountered League of Legends. I was only eleven years old, perched up on a chair in Hawaii, watching my older brother navigate the game’s world. The champions, the strategies, and the vibrant in-game universe fascinated me. It wasn’t long before I was hooked, dedicating countless hours to mastering the game myself. Those early experiences were more than just moments of fun; they sparked a curiosity within me about how such captivating games are designed. As I grew older and became more immersed in League of Legends, my fascination with the game, and games in general deepened. I played for the sheer enjoyment and thrill, primarily from a player’s perspective, relishing in the intuitive fun of outsmarting opponents and mastering new champions. I didn’t think much about the intricacies behind the game’s development—what motivated the designers to create certain champions, why they chose specific mechanics, and how they maintained balance in a game with such a diverse array of characters and abilities. It was all about the immediate excitement and satisfaction of the game.
Entering this class, I was eager to explore games from another perspective –that of a designer and creator of games. The course promised to unravel the mysteries behind my favorite pastime, and it did not disappoint. One of the most impactful lessons for me was the session on game balance. This class helped me better understand the complexities involved in maintaining fairness and competitiveness in games. I learned that balance is not just about making sure every character is equally strong but about ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for players. That lesson really helped to open my eyes as to the rationale behind game patches and updates, explaining how designers analyze player data, community feedback, and gameplay mechanics to decide on changes. Understanding this process gave me a newfound appreciation for the work that goes into keeping a game like League of Legends engaging and fair. It was eye-opening to see how much thought and effort goes into decisions that players, including myself, often take for granted or criticize without fully understanding.
Reflecting on this class, I realize how much my perspective on games has evolved. I no longer see them as mere entertainment but as complex systems that require careful design and constant iteration. This course has equipped me with the tools to critically analyze games, understand the rationale behind design choices, and appreciate the artistry involved in creating immersive gaming experiences. Going forward, I know that my approach to gaming will be fundamentally different. Every patch note, every balance change, and every new character release will now be viewed through a new lens. I’ll think about the designers’ intentions, the challenges they face, and the goals they aim to achieve with each decision. I am grateful for the insights I’ve gained and look forward to applying this knowledge both in my future career and in my everyday gaming adventures. This reflection marks the end of this class but the beginning of a more informed and appreciative relationship with the world of games.
