Rewards
Rewards serve multiple important functions in games:
Enable player progression: There are various types of rewards that players need to obtain in order to complete specific tasks or ultimately finish the game.
Encourage personal development over virtual advancement.
Promote virtual progression rather than personal growth.
Assist in overcoming gameplay challenges.
Enable players to better express their preferences and playstyles.
Offer narrative depth and insights into the game’s story.
Introduce additional gameplay challenges.
Designate in-game locations for additional challenges to take place.
Unlock further rewards.
Significantly influence total playtime: The greater the number of rewards required, the longer it will take players to complete the game.
The following tips are introduced in this chapter:
Provide Players with Rewards Necessary for Progression
Understand why certain rewards are essential for players to make progress in the game and explore what these rewards may represent.
Provide Players with Rewards Not Necessarily Required for Progression
Learn why players may still desire certain rewards even when they are not mandatory for progression, and examine what these rewards can signify.
Determine Whether to Disclose Rewards to Players
Examine the available options for informing players about upcoming rewards and consider the implications of each approach.