In keeping with the recent “evolution of RAPP” theme, and for those of you that haven’t heard about it, the next big thing in the gaming world is here!
SPORE is a multi-genre “massively single-player online game” designed by Will Wright, the guy that brought us The Sims–the best selling PC game in history. Will’s latest contribution to the gaming world allows players to control the evolution of a species from its humble beginnings as a unicellular organism, through development as an intelligent and social creature, to interstellar exploration as part of a spacefaring culture.
RAPP’s own recent evolution may have been a segue into this email, but it’s definitely not the only reason for it. The game’s use of nonlinear, aka open-ended, gameplay and on-the-fly content generation is what I’m most intrigued by and here’s why. A game with nonlinear gameplay presents players with challenges that can be completed in a number of different sequences. For example, multiple sequences to finish the game, a choice between paths to victory, or optional side-quests and subplots. Whereas a more linear game will confront a player with a fixed sequence of challenges and less player freedom.
So how does all this apply to more than just SPORE and games? Well, ask yourself this, how long would it take for you to get bored with a Rubik’s cube if it could only be solved one way, by following one linear sequence of moves? Its inherent nonlinear nature definitely keeps it from fast becoming a glorified paperweight.
The nonlinear approach creates so many combinations and permutations to get from start to finish, that it ensures users a different experience at virtually every interaction. In addition to enhancing the mass appeal this also creates a long-term reason for someone to keep going back for more. Definitely one more thing to keep in mind when designing that next banner, microsite, or Facebook application. After all it isn’t just about interruption anymore, it’s about serving up enriching experiences isn’t it?
More info about nonlinear gameplay?
Ron Thomas - NY
Tags: gaming
