Interpreting My Video Game Data

Deep Down Dream Data
One of many things I am liking about Gamestar Mechanic is that it gives you various pieces of data around the games that you create and publish within its community. The other day, I created my first multi-level game — Deep Drop Dream — and over the last three days, a few players have given it a try. As a Premium member, I have access to various stats (see above) which indicate to me not only how many people have played it, but also, whether they were able to finish the game or if there was a level that was abandoned consistently.

Why is this important?

If a game is too hard, then the player gets frustrated. If it is too easy, they get bored. The key to game development is to find that middle ground where there is challenge for the player but no insurmountable challenge. They have to be able to succeed, although it may mean they have to work at it. This data chart shows where those kinks in the game might be, and for the developer, you don’t always get that sense. It’s like writing a novel — sure, it reads great to me, the writer, but an impartial reader can give valuable critical advice for places where the story doesn’t work.

Here, I notice that 15 players started the game but only four finished. A few dropped out at different levels, and according to the guidelines, the funnel’s data shape is fine. It’s OK to lose some players. But if everyone is gone — if the funnel has a sharp tip at the end because no one made it there — then you know you have trouble and need to revamp the game. If the funnel is a vertical rectangle, meaning every player won every time, then the game is too easy.

This is a great analysis tool for kids, don’t you think?

Peace (in the game),
Kevin

2 Comments
  1. Very nice. As sim and learning game designers in this industry we always hear about the concept of flow and the work of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. The ‘deliberate practice’ folks also try and achieve a state of optimal challenge. Here you are showing it visually based on real performance data.

    Do you get your students to create games aswell? I was wondering how you explain that concept to them – that could be a challenge, but some terrific learning if possible.

    We are working with these kids on STEM games. http://bit.ly/kV4QaC
    We spend most of the time getting them to build interesting tasks using science content. We have not got to the flow concept yet!

    • We’re going to be creating games next week and yes, I hope to try to bring that balance of challenge and success into the mix, for sure.
      Thanks for the link to the piece about girls and video games.
      Kevin

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