Page 228 - Design Thinking C11

2. Choices: Games empower players with strategies and decisions to
overcome challenges. These choices make gameplay dynamic, such as
selecting moves in Snakes and Ladders to progress toward the finish line.

3. Chance: The element of unpredictability introduces suspense and
excitement, ensuring no two games feel identical. Rolling dice in board
games like Ludo creates a unique experience every time.

4. Change: As games progress, they often adapt through evolving rules,
mechanics, or difficulty levels, keeping players engaged. For example,
video games may introduce new levels or challenges to maintain interest.
The 4Cs work together to shape a game’s structure, making it interactive, engaging, and enjoyable for
players of all ages.

Types of Games
Games can be classified according to their structure, mechanics, and the level of interconnection between
their rules and narrative. Games can be broadly classified as:
1. Abstract Games: These are games based purely on rules, with no
added story or fiction.
l Example: Chess is a classic abstract game where the rules
dictate the gameplay without needing a narrative.
2. Iconic Games: Such games use individual components with
symbolic meanings but do not form any interconnected story.
l Example: Carrom represents iconic gameplay, where the pieces
symbolize player actions but are not tied to a fictional narrative.
3. Incoherent World Games: These games express some fiction but cannot be explained without referring to
their rules.
l Example: Snakes and Ladders incorporates the idea of climbing to success and falling into trouble but
requires rules for understanding.
4. Coherent World Games: Here, the rules are seamlessly integrated with the story, creating an immersive
experience.
l Example: In Kho-Kho, the rules of chasing and dodging align with the thrill of the fictional chase.

5. Staged Games: These involve abstract or representational games set within an elaborate fictional world.
l Example: Modern online role-playing games like RummyCircle in India, where abstract card games
are presented in visually rich settings.

What Are Serious Games?
Serious games are designed not just for fun but also to
achieve specific learning or problem-solving outcomes
while maintaining their playful essence. These games
engage players meaningfully to address real-world
challenges or educational purposes. Examples:
l Mission Prerna: A digital game introduced by
the Government of Uttar Pradesh to improve
foundational literacy and numeracy skills.

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