Brainstorming Techniques for Teams

Questions and Answers

What does the premise of a game provide?

Context for the formal elements (correct)

A list of all characters

The main objectives for winning

Gameplay mechanics

Which genre combines elements of action, RPG, and RTS games?

Tower Defense

Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (correct)

Real-Time Tactics

Turn-Based Strategy

What is a key feature of real-time strategy games?

Fending off creeps to defend a base

Engaging in turn-based actions

Collecting and maintaining resources (correct)

Emphasizing quick reflexes

How does a character enhance player engagement in a game?

Through dramatic stories Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following genres is primarily focused on physical obstacles and quick reflexes?

Action Games Signup and view all the answers

Which game genre is characterized by the absence of specific goals, allowing free exploration?

Simulation Signup and view all the answers

Why should brainstorming sessions avoid criticism?

To encourage open sharing of ideas Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of 'putting it on the wall' during brainstorming sessions?

To visualize ideas more effectively Signup and view all the answers

Which genre typically emphasizes storytelling, exploration, and puzzle-solving?

Adventure Games Signup and view all the answers

Which brainstorming method involves free association and organizing ideas?

List Creation Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes real-time tactics from real-time strategy games?

Battlefield action and tactics Signup and view all the answers

What component of a game unfolds alongside the gameplay to engage players emotionally?

Story Signup and view all the answers

What concept emphasizes the importance of taking breaks during brainstorming to maintain productivity?

Don't Go Too Long Signup and view all the answers

In which era did Super Mario Bros. begin to define the platformer genre?

Composite Era Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of surrealist games in brainstorming?

Emphasis on chance and the unconscious mind Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a feature commonly associated with Sandbox RPGs?

Structured storytelling Signup and view all the answers

What does clinical feasibility refer to in the context of editing and refining ideas?

The practical usability and application of the idea Signup and view all the answers

In prototyping a first-person shooter, which resource can be used to create a physical representation?

Hexagon graph paper Signup and view all the answers

Which game is often credited with introducing the concept of arcade gaming in 1978?

Space Invaders Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a recommended method of prototyping?

Mixing and pairing ideas with role-play Signup and view all the answers

What type of games primarily grant players strategic control over worlds and resources?

Strategy Games Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of Roguelike games?

Permadeath Signup and view all the answers

What does the term '4X' in strategy games stand for?

Explore, Expand, Exploit, Exterminate Signup and view all the answers

Which variation of adventure games incorporates real-time 3D elements?

Graphic Adventures Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of role-playing games (RPGs)?

Players embark on a quest with a fictional hero/heroine Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines a shooter game?

Tests player’s awareness, reflexes, and speed Signup and view all the answers

What role does 'incubation' play in the game design process?

Ideas churn around below the level of consciousness Signup and view all the answers

Which game type involves strategic planning with multiple adventurers?

Tactical role-playing games (Strategy RPGs) Signup and view all the answers

What is typically emphasized in Action RPGs?

Real-time action combat with critical stats Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of the game design process is characterized by the moment of realization for an idea?

Insight Signup and view all the answers

What is a common theme in casual games?

Engaging gameplay suitable for short sessions Signup and view all the answers

In brainstorming for game design, what is the first step according to best practices?

Stating a challenge to address Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Brainstorming Guidelines

Promote a non-critical atmosphere by refraining from criticizing colleagues' ideas and avoiding self-censorship.
Employ varied brainstorming methods to enhance creativity and idea generation.
Foster a playful environment by using neutral spaces like conference or brainstorming rooms.
Use wall space to visualize ideas effectively.
Keep brainstorming sessions concise; implement reasonable breaks to maintain focus.

Alternate Methods of Brainstorming

List Creation: Engage in free association to organize thoughts.
Idea Cards: Combine and mix different ideas through pairing techniques.
Mind Mapping: Visualize related concepts radiating outward from a central idea.
Stream of Consciousness: Write thoughts freely without filtering.
Shout It Out: Vocalize ideas aloud to stimulate further discussion.
Cut It Up: Randomly cut words to inspire new ideas.
Surrealist Games: Utilize chance and the unconscious mind for creative thought.
Research: Investigate subjects of interest to generate ideas.

Editing and Refining

Assess ideas based on technical feasibility and market opportunity.
Consider artistic elements and business/cost restraints when refining concepts.

Game Design Process: Prototyping

Create playable prototypes to test the feasibility of game ideas.
Focus on rough approximations of artwork, sound, and features in initial testing.

Methods of Prototyping

Use formal techniques to isolate and address design issues.
Battleship: Engage in strategic gameplay to sink opponents using a grid system.
Up the River: Navigate boats to the harbor to maximize points.

Prototyping First-Person Shooter Games

Physical prototypes can be created with paper models for action-packed games.
Examples of notable first-person shooters include Quake, Half-Life, and Call of Duty.
Use hexagon graph paper for mapping units and movement simulation; can utilize graph paper software.

History of Game Design

1980s Arcade Era: Marked by games like Pac-Man and introduced by Space Invaders in 1978.
1985 Composite Era: Super Mario Bros. established platforming techniques and game mechanics to engage players.
Indie Games: Emerged as a lucrative market with platforms like Newgrounds.
2000s Mobile Games: Popularity surged with the launch of the Apple App Store.

Components of a Game

Premise: The context of the game, e.g., buying and selling in Monopoly.
Character: Vital for player engagement and storytelling.
Story: Essential for emotional connection, progressing through challenges.

Game Genres

Action Games: Focus on physical challenges and dexterity.
Adventure Games: Incorporate storytelling with exploration and problem-solving.
RPGs: Feature character-driven quests in fictional settings.
Simulation Games: Replicate real-world scenarios.
Strategy Games: Emphasize skillful planning and resource management.

Game Design Process: Conceptualization

Involves multiple stages: brainstorming, prototyping, and programming.
The origin of ideas can stem from immersion in a subject matter, incubation of thoughts, and finally reaching an insightful "AHA!" moment.

Brainstorming Best Practices

Articulate a clear challenge to direct the brainstorming process, such as games focused on alliances and betrayals among players.

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Description

Explore effective brainstorming techniques to enhance creativity and collaboration in team settings. This quiz covers various methods to encourage idea generation while maintaining a positive environment. Test your knowledge on how to create a playful and productive brainstorming session.