Game Life and Utopia
The Game of Life and Utopia Theory in Game Design by Bernard Suits
Author: Bernard Suits
Description:
Have you ever thought about the concept of utopia in the realm of game design? Bernard Suits, a Canadian philosopher, explored this very idea in his groundbreaking work called “The Grasshopper: Games, Life, and Utopia.” Suits proposed the Game of Life and Utopia Theory, where he argued that games can be seen as utopian in nature because they offer a way to achieve a state where our desires are effortlessly fulfilled.
Conclusion of this Theory:
According to Suits, playing a game is essentially the voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles. In other words, games are a way for us to experience a utopian state where we are able to pursue our goals without the usual real-world constraints. This notion challenges our traditional understanding of games and sheds light on their deeper psychological and philosophical implications.
Implications to RPG Designers:
Narrative Design: RPG designers can leverage the principles of the Game of Life and Utopia Theory to craft compelling narratives that provide players with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By creating immersive worlds where players can freely pursue their goals, designers can enhance the overall gaming experience.
Example: In the popular RPG game “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt,” players embody the character of Geralt of Rivia and embark on a journey filled with meaningful quests and morally challenging decisions. This aligns with Suits’ theory by offering players a utopian experience within the game world.
Mechanics & Balancing: Game mechanics play a crucial role in shaping the player’s experience and determining the level of challenge they face. RPG designers can apply the Game of Life and Utopia Theory by designing balanced gameplay mechanics that provide players with a sense of accomplishment and progression.
Example: In the RPG “Persona 5,” players navigate through a complex social system while battling powerful enemies in a turn-based combat system. The game’s mechanics are finely tuned to offer a challenging yet rewarding experience, reflecting Suits’ idea of overcoming obstacles in pursuit of a utopian state.
Player Agency: Giving players agency and the freedom to make choices is essential in RPG design. By allowing players to shape their own paths and experience the consequences of their decisions, designers can create a sense of empowerment and immersion.
Example: The RPG “Divinity: Original Sin 2” offers players a high degree of freedom in character customization, dialogue choices, and quest resolutions. This aligns with Suits’ theory by empowering players to create their own utopian narrative within the game world.
Incorporating the Game of Life and Utopia Theory into RPG design can lead to more engaging and meaningful gaming experiences. By understanding the psychological underpinnings of games and the concept of utopia, designers can create worlds that resonate with players on a deeper level. So next time you embark on a gaming journey, remember that you’re not just playing a game – you’re exploring a utopian realm where your desires can truly come to life.