Games MDA
The MDA framework/model stands for Mechanics, Dynamics and Aesthetic and was developed at the Game Developers Conference, San Jose 2001-2004. This approach helps developers and game players to stick to a framework and critically analyse a game. It gives the foundation to developers to reference when they want to strengthen their game developing along with proper brainstorming and game developing techniques.
The MDA framework gives power to both developer and player and looks at the three headings and how they are interconnected when creating a strong and interesting game. It helps to break a game down into the parts that work and the parts that are not as strong. These frameworks are very much connected with each other and needed in developing its own building blocks and components for game development.
Mechanics - The mechanics of the game come from the base components of the game and the result of play from certain buttons being pressed. This is mainly about how the game reacts and behaves. It can be linked to moving the player, searching an area using your camera and even jumping and rolling. Mechanics can also be in the background of games and not so obvious and forefront. The reaction of shooting a gun too many times and having to reload is an example. This is an example of a mechanic the player does not have direct control over but still take over the gameplay in someway. These components come together to create the dynamics of the game.
Dynamics - The dynamics of the game develop from the mechanics previously mentioned. This is the behaviour from the surroundings that are a result from the actions of your gameplay and use of the mechanics. In a game you can have up to 2/3 core dynamics with other dynamics working as a more supportive role in the game. The mechanics and dynamics of a game both contribute to the aesthetics.
Aesthetics - The aesthetics of a game is the emotional response you have from the partnering of the mechanics and the dynamics. This framework can be broke down further into
1. Sensation Game
2. Fantasy Game
3. Narrative Game
4. Challenge Game
5. Fellowship Game
6. Discovery Game
7. Expression Game
8. Submission Game
The MDA framework shows that the aesthetics are directly related to the dynamics which is directly related to the mechanics. It is imperative to get good key mechanics in order to influence your dynamics of a game and in-turn influence the aesthetics. This approach is one of many when developing a game and should be used with accompanying research and brainstorming.
Bibliography:
MDA: A FORMAL APPROACH TO GAME DESIGN AND GAME RESEARCH
THE LAST BACON
Explaining the MDA Design Framework | Video Game Design
Image Bibliography:
Main Image by Ramón Salinero
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