Explain New Gameplay Mechanics
When your game introduces a new gameplay mechanic, it is crucial to explain it clearly to players of all experience levels. This is especially important if the mechanic plays a critical role in the game and must be mastered to progress.
Below are several recommendations to improve the process of teaching gameplay mechanics.
One method of introducing a new mechanic is through demonstration, without requiring the player to immediately practice it. This approach is suitable for relatively simple mechanics.
Example:
Players observe a scripted sequence in which a non-player character destroys a robot that is hostile to the player. By watching this sequence, players learn that it is possible to destroy robots and gain insight into how it is done.
Example:
Players watch a non-player character fire a projectile weapon at various materials, such as cloth, wood, metal, and concrete. Observing how the projectile penetrates materials like cloth and wood helps players understand how different materials react in the game.
A second method is to provide players with instructions and then require them to practice the new mechanic. This approach is most effective for teaching complex mechanics, though it can also be applied to simpler ones. Examples include:
Constructing functional machines or systems.
Eliminating targets.
Manipulating objects within the game environment.
If players are shown how to perform an action without being given the opportunity to practice it immediately, they may forget how it works—especially if the mechanic is complex. To improve retention, players should be encouraged to repeat the mechanic until it becomes familiar.
Avoid assuming that all mechanics are universally understood, even if they seem obvious to you or to a segment of your target audience. Through thorough playtesting, you can identify which mechanics require explicit explanation and which do not.
Example:
In a fictional role-playing game, four indicators are used to represent the player’s status: health, magic, stamina, and strength. While the first three are likely familiar to players experienced with RPGs, the meaning and function of the “strength” indicator may be unclear and should be explained.
In Tacoma, examining objects is a core gameplay mechanic that helps players uncover the narrative. Upon picking up the first object, the game provides instructions on how to inspect it.
Credit: The Fullbright Company. Footage captured by the author.
Offer occasional reminders to reinforce previously introduced mechanics, but be cautious not to repeat instructions unnecessarily. It is best to assume that players have retained the basics.
In Stronghold Crusader 2, during the opening level of the learning campaign, the game reminds the player twice to build a wood camp.
Credit: Firefly Studios. Footage captured by the author.
If you are aware that some players may have missed an essential instruction—for example, if they were distracted or in a rush—you may reintroduce that instruction.
Example:
When players approach the first puzzle of its kind, and testing reveals that it is not self-explanatory, you can display a pop-up window with concise instructions. This window should disappear once the player confirms that they have read the content.
If your game contains a significant number of mechanics that players need to learn, consider providing a space within the game where they can access explanations or reminders at any time. This could take the form of an in-game database. For further details, refer to the section on Databases.
Sniper Elite 4 includes a comprehensive collection of useful tutorials available from the start.
Credit: Rebellion Developments. Footage captured by the author.
In Stronghold Crusader 2, players have access to the game manual, which provides extensive information about the game’s mechanics.
Credit: Firefly Studios. Footage captured by the author.