Define Objectives with Clear Win Conditions
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Objectives Without Additional Win Conditions
When a game sets an objective without imposing additional win conditions, it should clearly communicate this to players. The absence of supplementary conditions makes these objectives easier to accomplish, as players are not constrained by specific limitations. Unless there is a compelling reason to guide players toward completing an objective in a specific manner, they should be allowed to approach it freely, using any method they prefer. Consider the following examples:
Example 1: Aligning the Oculory during the quest Revealing the Unseen in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The player is assigned the objective of adjusting the lenses so that the beams of light are directed toward the ceiling. Players are granted the freedom to manipulate the lenses at any time and in any sequence until the correct configuration is attained.
Example 2:
In a role-playing game, the player receives the objective: Reach Settlement A and meet a specific character. If this objective is not bound by any additional win conditions, players would have the freedom to:
Travel to the destination at any point during the game’s storyline, as there is no time constraint.
Use any available means of transportation to arrive at the settlement.
Choose to pursue this objective immediately or delay it in favor of completing other objectives first.
Objectives With Additional Win Conditions
When additional conditions must be met for an objective to be completed, the complexity and difficulty of the task increase. The more conditions that are imposed, the more challenging the objective becomes. Careful consideration must be given to the design of such conditions, as they limit the number of possible solutions. If the intention is to maintain non-linear gameplay, it is important to ensure that multiple approaches remain viable. Excessive restrictions can diminish gameplay flexibility and reduce overall player enjoyment.
Below are some examples of additional win conditions:
Time Limit
Players may be given a specific time frame in which to complete an objective. Clearly communicating the remaining time helps reduce player anxiety and promotes confidence.
Example: Mission St. Fromond in Company of Heroes
Objective: Defend the town square.
Additional win condition: Hold the position for 30 minutes.
In some cases, the objective must be completed within a specified time window.
Example: Burglar Missions in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Objective: Enter the house and loot it.
Additional win condition: The objective must be completed before 6:00 AM.
Prevention
The game may require players to prevent a specific event from occurring.
Example: Mission: Speed Explosive Truck in the Free Ride Extreme mode of Mafia
Objective: Drive the truck to a designated location.
Additional win condition: Maintain a speed above 34 mph at all times.
Prohibition
Players may be required to avoid certain actions while completing an objective.
Example: Operation Watchman in Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands
Objective: Meet with Sam Fisher by 04:00.
Additional win condition: Remain undetected and do not kill any enemies.
Order of Execution
Some objectives must be completed in a specific sequence.
Example:
Objective: Plant bugs in the receivers of two red telephones.
Additional win condition: Place the first bug in the phone on the ground floor, then plant the second bug in the phone on the second floor.