A Theory of Fun for Game Design
by Raph Koster
Fun is learning: games are pattern-recognition puzzles the brain enjoys mastering. Illustrated, short and profound for designers and teachers.
Read it if…
you design anything people must learn.
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Skip it if…
you want technical game design.
Try instead: The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses →
Three things you will actually use
- Fun is learning.
- Boredom means the pattern is mastered.
- Design the learning curve.
Do this first
Read it in an afternoon.
Our verdict
Why games are fun.
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