#mda in game design

[microlearningplatform]

DDE Framework for Training: The Next Big Thing in Learning Innovation

The DDE Framework for Game Design in Microlearning: Enhancing Engagement and Retention

In today's fast-paced digital world, traditional learning methods often fail to capture the attention of modern learners. Organizations are turning to microlearning, a bite-sized, highly focused learning approach that delivers knowledge in short, engaging formats. However, making microlearning effective requires more than just breaking content into smaller chunks—it must be engaging, interactive, and immersive. This is where the DDE Framework (Design, Develop, Evaluate) comes into play.

The DDE Framework for Game Design in Microlearning provides a structured approach to integrating gamification into learning experiences, making training more engaging and effective. This article explores the DDE Framework, its components, and how it enhances microlearning to drive better learning outcomes.

What is the DDE Framework?

The DDE Framework stands for:

Design – Conceptualizing the learning experience and setting clear learning objectives.

Develop – Creating the microlearning content with interactive and gamified elements.

Evaluate – Measuring the effectiveness of the learning experience and making improvements.

By following this framework, organizations can ensure that their microlearning strategy is engaging, interactive, and results-driven.

Phase 1: Design – Laying the Foundation for Engaging Learning

The Design phase is the most critical step in the DDE Framework. This is where learning objectives are established, and the foundation for game-based learning elements is set.

Key Elements of the Design Phase:

Identifying Learning Goals

What should learners achieve by the end of the module?

How does this learning align with business objectives?

Understanding the Audience

What are the learners' preferences, skill levels, and challenges?

What motivates them to engage in training?

Choosing Gamification Elements

Will the microlearning module include badges, leaderboards, points, or interactive challenges?

How can storytelling be used to create an immersive learning journey?

Defining the User Experience (UX)

How will learners interact with the content?

What kind of visual design will keep them engaged?

Example in Action:

A sales training module using the DDE Framework might include story-based simulations where learners play the role of a salesperson navigating customer interactions. Each correct decision earns points and unlocks new levels, making learning more engaging.

Phase 2: Develop – Creating Interactive and Engaging Microlearning Content

Once the design phase is complete, it’s time to develop the learning content. This phase focuses on bringing the learning experience to life through gamification, interactivity, and adaptive learning techniques.

Key Strategies in the Develop Phase:

Use of Microlearning Modules

Breaking content into short, engaging lessons (3-5 minutes each).

Ensuring each module focuses on a single learning objective.

Incorporating Gamification Mechanics

Rewards and Points – Encouraging learners to complete challenges.

Leaderboards – Fostering friendly competition.

Story-Based Scenarios – Creating a sense of immersion.

Adaptive Learning for Personalization

AI-driven personalization to adjust content based on learner progress.

Offering different difficulty levels based on prior performance.

Interactive Learning Elements

Using quizzes, drag-and-drop activities, and scenario-based decision-making.

Implementing real-time feedback to enhance learning retention.

Example in Action:

A customer service training program might include an interactive role-playing simulation, where learners respond to different customer queries. Each response earns points, and feedback is provided instantly to reinforce correct behaviors.

Phase 3: Evaluate – Measuring Success and Improving Learning Outcomes

The final phase of the DDE Framework is Evaluate, where organizations measure the effectiveness of their game-based microlearning strategy. This step ensures continuous improvement and better engagement over time.

Key Metrics for Evaluation:

Learner Engagement Rates

Are learners completing the modules?

How often are they logging in to the platform?

Knowledge Retention & Assessment Performance

Comparing pre-training and post-training assessments.

Using spaced repetition to reinforce learning.

Behavioral Changes & Application of Knowledge

Are learners applying their knowledge in real-world scenarios?

Conducting follow-up assessments to measure impact.

Learner Feedback and Experience

Gathering feedback through surveys and interactive polls.

Using AI-driven analytics to track learning patterns.

Example in Action:

A retail company implementing game-based microlearning for product training may track sales performance before and after training to assess the effectiveness of the learning program.

Why the DDE Framework is a Game-Changer for Microlearning

The DDE Framework helps organizations move beyond traditional, passive learning methods and embrace interactive, gamified learning experiences that drive engagement and retention. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

Boosts Engagement with Game Mechanics

Elements like points, rewards, and challenges make learning enjoyable.

Encourages Continuous Learning

Short, digestible learning modules help employees learn without disrupting their workflow.

Improves Knowledge Retention

Spaced repetition and interactive assessments reinforce learning.

Enables Personalized Learning Experiences

AI-driven adaptability ensures learners receive customized training.

Provides Data-Driven Insights for Improvement

Tracking engagement and performance helps optimize training strategies.

Final Thoughts: Transform Your Learning Strategy with the DDE Framework

The DDE Framework for Game Design in Microlearning offers a structured approach to creating engaging, effective, and results-driven learning experiences. By focusing on Design, Develop, and Evaluate, organizations can transform dull training programs into dynamic, game-based learning experiences that improve knowledge retention, performance, and engagement.

Are you ready to enhance your microlearning strategy with the DDE Framework? Explore how MaxLearn can help you design game-based learning experiences that captivate learners and drive real results. 🚀

[thesuperawesomeaarpong]

Ever heard of the MDA framework before? Well, after watching this video you will. Because I'll be explaining the Mechanics, Dynamics and aesthetics of play framework in a way that is actually useful to you.

[hopeymchope]

TooKyo Games' "Limit x Despair" is finally unveiled as "The Hundred Line -Last Defense Academy-"

Once again, TooKyo Games came out swinging during a Nintendo Direct.

The moment this trailer starts up, you can immediately recognize Rui Komatsuzaki's character designs.

Then the setup is described: 16 students are locked inside an academy alongside a weird living mascot character, fighting for their lives as their friends are forced to die right in front of them. Sounds familiar.

Yup: Hard as it is to believe, it is already time for Kazutaka Kodaka's next game. The game once known as "Limit x Despair" or "Extreme x Despair" is here, and it's... a tactical RPG!

...I can legitimately say that I did not expect that. But I am also definitely down for it!

The story seems to deal with the world (or at least the characters' hometown?) being invaded and attacked by some monsters that look like the "Spirit World" baddies from Magical Girl Spec-Ops. Our protagonist Takumi Sumino is forced to hole up and lock down in a school alongside 15 other students and... this thing.

....and from there, they must fight to defend the school in the aforementioned battles.

Aside from the tactical top-down combat and visual novel sequences, you'll also explore the titular "Last Defense Academy" from a perspective similar to how your traversed the island in Danganronpa 2.

Given that we're apparently dealing with a cast of characters that will be whittled down and lost as the narrative progresses, I think this is going to be tonally much closer to Danganronpa's storytelling style than Master Detective Archives: Rain Code was. What I mean is: Master Detective Archives (MDA) was basically the gameplay successor to Danganronpa, but The Hundred Line (THL?) looks more like it's the narrative successor to Danganronpa, if that makes any sense?

Suffice to say that I am once again extremely hyped/excited.

[soapdispensersalesman]

I finished watching The Cleveland Show last Friday, been wanting to write a review of some sort about it but couldn't really find the words to do so yet.

It's an interesting spin-off, I remembered when it first started airing in the Netherlands around 2010-ish that I was intrigued by the idea of a "black" Family Guy spin-off, not yet realising that Cleveland was being voiced by a white guy at the time until shortly afterwards. I did remember the characters from the show, the slightly uncanny character designs compared to Family Guy, and of course Cleveland's rap! I used to keep an mp4 of that rap on my MDA Vario IV Windows Mobile PDA, playing that on the Windows Media Player app as I fantasized about becoming a musician as I was listening to very niche music from chiptune to underground rap music I came across on YouTube that mostly sounded catchy as my English listening skills weren't up to scratch yet.

I vaguely remembered episodes where the stories just felt "off"

But enough rambling, let's get to the actual review:

(Beware of spoilers)

The first episode was MUCH funnier than I remembered, I was prepared for the absolute worst and poorly aged jokes for a 15 year old show but I honestly thought it was hilarious! The meta joke of the "black show written by white people" sets an interesting tone for what I think the idea of The Cleveland Show was. I genuinely enjoyed the first season of The Cleveland Show, the cutaway gags were neat too, although one might notice that there's just a different vibe in the air, I still struggle to put it into words in a way that makes sense, but the animation style feels different from Family Guy and American Dad. I should mention that beyond looking up the writers, I have not yet looked into the team behind The Cleveland Show (or any of Seth's shows for that matter), so it wouldn't surprise if different animators worked on this.

I've mentioned this before, but The Cleveland Show's animation style resembles that of a Playstation 2 game. It might be the fast-paced "stop and go" animation where characters quickly move from pose A to B when talking ans background characters sometimes being so static that they keep staring at a subject that has since disappeared. There are so many scenes where you could add a loading screen behind and it would feel natural lol I'm on the spectrum btw

Season two was also pretty funny and enjoyable! I do start to notice that the whole "black comedy" part of the show starts to disappear, but the stories surrounding Cleveland's family still make sense to me and show interesting characters dynamics and growth.

Season three is where the show started to lose me a little. Even though this show has little to none necessary need for canon events and continuity just like Family Guy and American Dad, the stories just did not make sense to me strangely enough. What might have been a contributing factor for me is the character designs on The Cleveland Show being far more detailed than any character I've seen in Family Guy and American Dad, most camera compositions being in medium-medium close added to those details as it felt more like a "single camera sitcom" compared to those total shot multi camera sitcoms.

I feel like I was "hate watching" season four to some extent. But the episodes just did not feel interesting to watch. A large majority of season three and four felt like "filler episodes" if that make sense. Not literally but there's that feeling you experience when watching those episodes that feels similar to watching a filler episode of any show with a more canon storyline.

I can see why the show got cancelled because you could feel the decline, I do wonder what a "finale" would've looked like. In any scenario, the family would probably return to Quahog either way but it would be nice to give the characters some closure.

Here's a list of other thoughts as the formatting of this pose is already messy enough:

Love the guest stars brought on this show, Ye's character Kenny West still gotta be my favourite character. Ye's voice acting sounds a bit monotonous as of he's either reading the script out loud or having a difficult time saying his lines with the time codes. I'd kinda love for his character to make a return to Family Guy or American Dad.

Gus is another character I love and HOLY MOLY you're telling me that David Lynch voiced Gus?! That discovery made me love Gus' character even more!

The hurricane episode missed the mark for me! The family trying to navigate around Junior being an atheist has such potential to make for a powerful storyline, but sadly misses the mark so much! The family does not find common ground with Junior and then completely ruins it when Cleveland sneezes and Junior says "god bless you!"

Choni's introduction to the show feels so unfortunate. They painted her so cocky and it made it difficult for me to sympathize with her during her first episode. it's sad because her character in general is pretty lovely.

Cleveland Junior being a spy who got rid of the original Junior is so funny to me and I choose to believe that this is (still) canon in Family Guy

I disliked the international episode with a passion, but the German segment parodied a certain "Persona 2 character" that acquainted me about info surrounding the writers that suddenly made me aware why so many characters were... like the writers (Forgive me for the vague wording for I'm not informed enough but have zero issues with these characters, it was just a bit notable, especially as they kinda took the place of what I feel like initially was supposed to be black characters)

I watched multiple reviews about the show on YouTube to see if they experienced similar things I did and could put them into words, I agree with how all of them point out the bond in Cleveland's family and how everyone learns to get along, make mistakes, and learn/grow from them!

Like most other fans, I wish that Family Guy involved Cleveland's family more often! Seeing Rallo and Roberta just standing in the background despite probably being the strongest two characters back in The Cleveland Show is such a shame to seeing them reduced to a "Boondocks ripoff" punchline.

Donna's ex husband getting together with her mom makes me realize that Donna is now technically canonically also the older sister of Roberta and Rallo.

That's pretty much all, might add more thoughts later.

[shiken-x]

4-20

　最近はいくつの文章を読んでいて、そのメモと感想を書いておきます。

　1．桜井���博，「ゲームの面白さを生み、より高めるための法則とは？」，2017．（講演記録）

　ゲームの本質というのは「リスクとリターン」であると述べました。プレーヤーがより高いリターンを得るためにより高いリスクに晒すという行為によってゲームの面白さが生むといいます。その一方、行動のリスクを上げることで一部のゲーム初心者を排除してしまう可能性もあります。大事なのはリスクとリターンの大きさをバランスよく設置することです。

　私は「ミニマムのゲーム」を追求するなら、プレーヤーがゲーム内の行動の数を少なめに設置した方がいいかもしれないと思います。しかしその一方、ゲームの不確定性と複雑さが減るでしょう。

　2．Robin Hunicke，Marc LeBlanc，Robert Zubek，“MDA: A Formal Approach to Game Design and Game Research”，2004．

　MDAフレームワークはGDC（世界ゲーム開発者大会）で提出されたゲーム業界にとって非常に重要なモデルだと言われます。ゲーム開発だけではなくゲーム評価にとって重要な参考標準となっています。

　Mechanics(メカニクス、機構)はデータの表示とアルゴリズムによって構成された部分で、簡単にいうとゲームのルールとなります。Dynamics(ダイナミックス、動態)はプレーヤーのインプットとその時ゲームのメカニクスによるアウトプット、そして時間の流れによって変化していく行動です。Aesthetics(美学)は美術上のものだけではなく、プレーヤーにもたらす感情的な体験も含めています。

　デザイナーにとって、ゲームの開発過程には各部分がM→D→Aの流れで次々の部分を影響していく、一つの部分の変化だけでも最終的な体験に変化をもたらします。

　なお、この二日間ゲームの内容について幾つの案を出す予定です。

[jayantsjadhav]

Digital Media: Sources and Significance [Academic Blogs]

3. The Procedural Argument in Papers, Please

Papers, Please (3909 LLC, 2013) presents a powerful political statement through its mechanics instead of dialogue. Using Bogost’s (2007) procedural rhetoric theory, I analyzed how the game “argues” by forcing players to engage with morally complex bureaucratic decisions. Bogost claims that games can be persuasive through their systems instead of traditional narrative, and Papers, Please is an exemplary example of this concept. Players are forced into the role of a border inspector with limited resources, confronted with the necessity of prioritizing personal interests over morality. The cyclical structure and rising complexity of the rules create sensations of frustration and complicity, enabling players to feel the emotional weight of routine de humanisation. This revelation changed my approach to socially focused games: I moved away from dependence on cutscenes to mechanics that instantiate ideological conflict. In a recent project about climate change, I remodeled the resource economy to represent ecological decline, matching gameplay mechanics to thematic relevance — a choice directly inspired by Bogost’s theory.

Reference: Hunicke, R., LeBlanc, M. & Zubek, R. (2004) ‘MDA: A Formal Approach to Game Design and Game Research’, Proceedings of the Challenges in Games AI Workshop, Nineteenth National Conference on Artificial Intelligence. Available at: https://www.cs.northwestern.edu/~hunicke/MDA.pdf (Accessed: 20 June 2025).

[microcenterindia]

Royal Kludge RK R75 Mechanical Keyboard – Wired Precision, Compact Power 🔥 Crafted for performance and elegance, the RK R75 is a 75% mechanical keyboard designed to elevate your workspace with precision and style. 🎮 Features & Specifications:

Wired connectivity with detachable USB

Hot-swappable mechanical switches – RK Brown & RK Fast Silver

Premium PBT double-shot keycaps in Cherry & MDA profiles

RGB Backlight with customizable effects

Compact 75% ANSI layout – perfect for productivity and gaming

Includes keycap & switch pullers

[mdatraining]

What are some examples of simulation tools used in insurance onboarding?

In the insurance industry, onboarding new hires effectively is essential for ensuring they understand products, regulations, customer service protocols, and internal systems. Traditional onboarding methods often fall short in engaging employees and preparing them for real-world responsibilities. This is where simulation tools come into play, offering immersive and hands-on learning experiences.

Here are some common examples of simulation tools used during insurance onboarding:

🧩 1. Claims Handling Simulators

Purpose: Train new hires to process claims efficiently and empathetically. Features:

Interactive case studies

Decision trees for claim outcomes

Real-time feedback on accuracy and policy adherence Benefit: Prepares employees for managing high-pressure claim situations without risking real client satisfaction.

💬 Customer Interaction Role-Play Tools

Purpose: Practice client communication in a risk-free environment. Features:

Simulated phone/video conversations

Voice or text-based interaction scoring

Emotional response recognition Benefit: Builds confidence in handling difficult or complex customer queries, boosting communication and empathy.

📋 Underwriting Simulations

Purpose: Help new underwriters learn how to evaluate risks and apply company policies. Features:

Scenario-based pricing and risk assessment exercises

Simulated documentation and policy review

Gamified scoring on underwriting accuracy Benefit: Accelerates learning of complex rules, product structures, and regulatory constraints.

🔐 Compliance and Ethics Training Simulations

Purpose: Ensure new hires understand and follow regulatory guidelines. Features:

Interactive decision-making scenarios involving ethical dilemmas

“Choose your action” paths with explanations of outcomes

Embedded quizzes and compliance score tracking Benefit: Reduces regulatory risk and reinforces company values from day one.

💼 Sales and Product Knowledge Simulations

Purpose: Educate new agents on policy options and selling techniques. Features:

Virtual client consultation simulations

Product comparison dashboards

Cross-selling and upselling challenges Benefit: Boosts product confidence and consultative sales capability.

🧠 AI-Based Adaptive Learning Platforms (e.g., Mursion, MindTickle, Attensi)

Purpose: Deliver personalized simulation experiences based on skill gaps. Features:

AI-driven role-plays and analytics

Real-time feedback and coaching

Adaptive content delivery based on learner performance Benefit: Keeps onboarding flexible and highly targeted.

🎮 Gamified Learning Tools (e.g., Axonify, ELB Learning, Centrical)

Purpose: Make learning fun and engaging with game elements. Features:

Leaderboards, badges, and challenges

Daily microlearning simulations

Social learning through team-based scenarios Benefit: Increases retention, motivation, and long-term learning engagement.

How MDA Training Can Help

At MDA Training, we develop tailored simulation-based onboarding programs for insurance companies that combine practical role-specific training with engaging, experiential learning. Our tools reflect real-world industry challenges and integrate behavioral training to ensure your new hires not only learn faster but also perform better.

We offer onboarding simulations across:

Claims and underwriting

Customer service

Sales and product training

Regulatory compliance

👉 Looking to modernize your insurance onboarding with simulations? Get in touch with us here. Let’s design a learning experience that empowers your team from day one.

[microlearningplatform]

DDE Framework: The Secret to Engaging Game-Based Microlearning

The DDE Framework for Game Design in Microlearning: Transforming Training with Gamification

Gamification in learning is no longer a novelty—it’s a necessity. Traditional training methods often struggle to engage modern learners, who expect interactive, engaging, and dynamic experiences. This is where game design principles come into play, making learning more effective and enjoyable.

A structured approach to gamification in microlearning is the DDE Framework—which stands for Design, Dynamics, and Experience. This model provides a clear structure for integrating game elements into microlearning platforms like MaxLearn, ensuring that training is both engaging and results-driven.

In this article, we’ll explore: ✔ What the DDE Framework is ✔ How it enhances gamified microlearning ✔ Practical applications for corporate training

Understanding the DDE Framework

The DDE Framework is a structured approach to game design that ensures learning experiences are:

Engaging (keeping learners motivated)

Effective (improving knowledge retention)

Effortless (easy to navigate and complete)

Each component—Design, Dynamics, and Experience—plays a crucial role in making gamified microlearning successful.

1. Design: Structuring the Game Elements

The Design phase focuses on planning and structuring the gamification strategy. This step determines how learning objectives align with game mechanics to drive engagement.

Key Components of the Design Phase:

🎨 Visual & Interactive Elements – UI/UX, avatars, themes, and storytelling enhance immersion. 📜 Learning Objectives – Ensuring game elements support clear, measurable learning goals. 🎯 Gamification Mechanics – Defining leaderboards, achievements, levels, and challenges. 🕹 Game Rules & Rewards – Establishing rules, progression systems, and motivational incentives.

Example in Microlearning: Imagine a compliance training module where learners complete challenges to unlock new levels, reinforcing knowledge while keeping engagement high.

2. Dynamics: How the Game Engages Learners

The Dynamics phase focuses on learner interaction with the game mechanics. It’s about creating an emotional connection and ensuring the experience is interactive.

Key Components of the Dynamics Phase:

🔁 Progression & Motivation – Ensuring continuous engagement through levels, badges, and milestones. 🤝 Social Interactions – Integrating team-based challenges, leaderboards, and peer competition. 🚀 Instant Feedback – Providing real-time performance insights to guide learners. 🎭 Personalized Challenges – Adapting difficulty levels based on learner performance.

Example in Microlearning: A sales training module where employees compete in real-time quizzes, earning rewards for correct answers, creating a competitive and motivating environment.

3. Experience: How Learners Perceive the Journey

The Experience phase focuses on the user journey, engagement levels, and emotional response. A well-designed gamified microlearning course should feel rewarding and meaningful.

Key Components of the Experience Phase:

🎉 Intrinsic Motivation – Making learning enjoyable beyond just earning points. 🔄 Retention & Application – Reinforcing knowledge through spaced repetition and scenario-based learning. 📱 Seamless Accessibility – Ensuring learners can access content easily on mobile and desktop. 💡 Storytelling & Immersion – Creating an engaging narrative that learners connect with.

Example in Microlearning: A cybersecurity training program that places learners in a simulated attack scenario, allowing them to make choices that affect the outcome—making learning realistic and memorable.

Why Use the DDE Framework in Microlearning?

Microlearning platform is all about short, focused learning experiences. The DDE Framework enhances this by making learning:

✅ More Engaging – Learners stay motivated with game mechanics like badges, challenges, and leaderboards. ✅ More Retentive – Gamified content improves knowledge retention rates through active participation. ✅ More Personalized – Adaptive challenges ensure each learner gets a customized experience. ✅ More Enjoyable – Training becomes fun, increasing completion rates and participation.

Without gamification, microlearning risks being just another passive e-learning experience. The DDE Framework ensures it is dynamic, interactive, and rewarding.

Real-World Applications of the DDE Framework in Corporate Training

Let’s explore how different industries can leverage the DDE Framework to enhance training.

1. Sales Training – 🎯 Boosting Performance Through Gamified Learning

Design: Sales reps progress through levels as they complete negotiation scenarios.

Dynamics: Instant feedback helps them improve pitch strategies.

Experience: Leaderboards create friendly competition.

2. Compliance Training – 📜 Making Mandatory Training Fun

Design: Training modules turn compliance policies into mini-games.

Dynamics: Employees earn badges for each completed policy section.

Experience: Storytelling makes regulations easy to understand and apply.

3. Customer Service Training – 💬 Enhancing Communication Skills

Design: Interactive role-play simulations for handling customer queries.

Dynamics: AI-driven real-time feedback for responses.

Experience: Scenario-based learning makes training immersive.

4. Onboarding Training – 🚀 Engaging New Employees from Day One

Design: Employees navigate a virtual onboarding world.

Dynamics: Milestone achievements mark progress.

Experience: Personalized learning paths make onboarding engaging.

Best Practices for Implementing the DDE Framework in Microlearning

To maximize the impact of DDE-driven gamification, follow these best practices:

✔ Keep it Simple – Avoid overcomplicating game mechanics. Simple challenges work best. ✔ Align with Learning Goals – Every gamification element should reinforce the training objective. ✔ Use Meaningful Rewards – Offer badges, certificates, and real-world incentives to maintain motivation. ✔ Encourage Social Learning – Integrate peer challenges, leaderboards, and team-based competitions. ✔ Analyze & Optimize – Use AI-driven analytics to track learner performance and improve training effectiveness.

MaxLearn: The Ultimate Gamified Microlearning Platform

Platforms like MaxLearn leverage AI-powered gamification and microlearning to deliver engaging, effective, and customized training experiences.

🚀 Why Choose MaxLearn? 🔹 AI-powered adaptive learning for personalized experiences 🔹 Engaging game mechanics (leaderboards, rewards, challenges) 🔹 Mobile-friendly microlearning for on-the-go training 🔹 Data-driven insights for tracking and improving performance

If you’re looking to supercharge your training programs with gamification, MaxLearn’s AI-powered microlearning is the perfect solution.

Final Thoughts: Why the DDE Framework is a Game-Changer for Learning

The DDE Framework (Design, Dynamics, Experience) provides a structured approach to gamifying microlearning, ensuring training is:

🎯 Engaging 📚 Educational 💡 Memorable

By implementing game elements effectively, organizations can enhance learning outcomes, boost motivation, and drive business success.

🔹 Are you ready to transform your training? Explore how MaxLearn can help you implement the DDE Framework in your corporate learning strategy today! 🚀

[thesuperawesomeaarpong]

Great post! Not to plug myself too much but I just happened to have made a video on the MDA framework and the Aesthetics of play (or kinds of fun, as I like to call them).

"Games mean via their dynamics."

It's a sentence I've heard a few times from different people. These are professional game designers, who have thought a lot about this art form. I think a lot about this art form too, which is why I seek out every talk, interview, and book I can find on the topic. And these people are trying to find the answer to "How do games create meaning?"

"Games mean via their dynamics."

This is a reference to the MDA framework, which stands for Mechanics, Dynamics, and Aesthetics. It was some game scholars' attempts in the mid-2000s to put a science to the art of game design. In this framework Mechanics, which are the rules and logic behind the game, create Dynamics, all the interactions and behaviors that happen at runtime. These then create Aesthetics, the underlying feelings of the game, the reasons why we play it. As an example, a shooter having a low ammo count (Mechanic) forces you to conserve your ammo, (Dynamic) which leads to an atmosphere of tension and caution. (Aesthetic) Designers are trying to achieve specific aesthetics, but only have direct control over the mechanics. That middle layer makes all the difference, and that can be frustrating.

"Games mean via their dynamics."

This is an interesting thing for me, as a burgeoning game designer. I like to think that stories, characters, and themes can be conveyed through mechanics. A lot of my work on games like Fiora was done with this exact mindset. But what this sentence means is that I can create all the mechanics I want, deciding for myself what they mean, but all of that intent vanishes as soon as it gets in the hands of a player. And that terrifies me.

Games mean via their dynamics.

If a designer puts a mechanic into a game, and it creates no dynamics, does the mechanic mean anything? I think about this a lot when looking back on Fiora: Full Bloom, possibly my most well-known title. It's a turn-based RPG, made using the vestigial functions of an engine designed for walking simulators. It has a lot of clever ideas, and I'd recommend you play it to see them, but relevant to our conversation is this: The stats and formulas underlying Fiora's combat are deliberately obfuscated. It shows you attributes like Power and Resilience, but they don't mean what you think they mean, and it's on you to interpret their functions. I actually included a stat, called Logic, which does nothing. Literally nothing, it does not matter whether you raise or lower it. This was meant as a "checkmate, atheists" kind of burn, as logic alone cannot get one out of an emotional spiral. But crucially, in early versions at least, I didn't *tell* anybody that Logic was a useless stat. I wanted people to come to their own conclusions, hopefully realizing naturally that Logic doesn't do anything, and questioning what that means. I wanted players to create their own understanding of the mechanics, to have Fiora be a canvas of interpretation. But...

Games mean via their dynamics.

Ultimately, the open interpretation canvas didn't work. I'm sure for some people it did, but most players ended up confused, nonplussed, or just checking the guide I wrote. The game hid its true colors too well, and most people only connected with its message *after* checking the guide. The game was just better when it was explicit, and it was more meaningful once players understood the mechanics. A mechanic inert, standing in the code, means nothing unless the player experiences it.

A mechanic on its own cannot create an aesthetic, there *must* be a dynamic.

I'm working right now on a party game about pirates and capitalism, getting extremely antsy waiting for the first playtest. I have all these high-minded ideas of what the game is about, but ultimately the players are the ones who decide what the game is. In his talk, "Dynamics: The State of the Art," Clint Hocking argues that a multiplayer game like Go, Badminton, or Street Fighter might not mean much innately, but an individual session can be loaded with meaning. Go isn't "about" a conflict between traditionalism and progressivism, but Shūsai vs Kitani was. Two kids playing Badminton in the backyard might not be particularly rigorous, but a game between Djokovic and Federer can influence a nation's view of its own national identity. A fight in Street Fighter isn't really about Ryu vs Ken, but about two players with different ideas of what the game is about, fighting to see who's wins. By this framing, a game means something different each session. The mechanics just give players the tools to create meaning of their own.

Games mean via their dynamics.

This is death of the author, only so much worse. At least in a book, the words are the same. Each word might mean different things to different people, but we can still have a consistent idea of what a sentence, in the abstract, "means." A movie may be interpreted in countless ways, but it's still the same shots, the same cuts, the same directorial decisions. It's still the same story, you know? But when you make a game, each player will have a different story, even in a largely linear affair. Your playthrough of Pokemon Legends: Arceus will not be the same as mine, it will have different characters, different challenges, different arcs. Your player character may have been a trainer or a surveyor, but mine was a hunter. And that was achieved through my personal interaction with the game's mechanics.

It was achieved through the dynamics.

This is *why* Roger Ebert said that games could never be art! Creative control isn't strict enough, the creator doesn't get to decide what the game is about, they don't even decide what it *is!* But he said that over a decade ago, and he's dead now, so who really cares anymore? Well, I do. Not because I'm insecure about the legitimacy of games as an art form, but because I worry that my game's meaning is out of my control. I can say that my game is a critique of capitalism, but is it really? Will people really come out of this game liking capitalism less? Or will I fall into the Monopoly trap of making capitalism fun? It's not about what I personally want, because like,

Games mean via their dynamics!

In the 2010s the popular conception of games was that they are "empathy machines," letting you understand someone's situation in a way only games can allow. This was a big part of the conversation surrounding games like Depression Quest, Dys4ia, and Cart Life. But is that what they're trying to be, and are they successful? In his talk, "You Have No Idea How Hard It Is to Run a Sweatshop," Soren Johnson talks about the ways games have tried and failed to create empathy in audiences. A game that put you in the role of a poor person made players think the poor just need to ration their money better. A game that made you a sweatshop manager to show how increasing quotas make you sell more of your soul ended up creating more empathy for the managers than the workers. All of the mechanics were in place to make a pointed message about the state of our world, but when put in the hands of players they sent the exact opposite message.

Games mean via their dynamics.

This is all very high-minded and academic, from someone who cares about this stuff a lot. But maybe it's overthinking things a little? Like, both Hocking and Johnson say that games are about their dynamics, and not their cutscene narrative. But does it have to be an either-or? While people who don't give a shit about mechanics and play games for the traditional stories are enjoying games in a very different way than I tend to, I wouldn't say they're enjoying games Wrong. I think game literacy requires an understanding of how gameplay creates meaning, but that doesn't mean games have to be "pure" in their ludic narrative. I think back to Ian Danskin's video about Bastion, where he points out that there is no pure storytelling medium, and that all stories bastardize the medium they're told in. But every medium gives a unique method for telling stories, that we shouldn't dismiss just because they're not "pure" forms of the medium. Games mean via their dynamics, and they mean via many other things too, and that array of possibilities is what gives games their character. So just, make games, you know?

I wrote most of that last night, and now today's the day of my playtest. I think I'll be okay with whatever happens. Whatever dynamics the game creates will help guide my development in the coming weeks. I can't control the dynamics, and that's the beautiful thing about them. But I can create the right conditions for fun, entertaining, and thought-provoking dynamics. The designer of a playground can't control how the kids play, but they can influence it by giving them the means to make their own fun. Playgrounds are an art. And I encourage you, if you've gotten this far, to think harder about the meaning created by the games you play. Not just by the dialogue, or the cutscenes, or the "story" as it were, but by the moment-to-moment interactions in the game's dynamics. Think about what the game does to you, and what kind of person it makes you. Because I love this medium, and I hope I've made you love it just a little bit more.

[gamedevjourney]

The Final Blog Post

I learned so much from taking this Game Studies class! I learned about many game design principles like the "flow" state, paper-prototypes, and guiding players in creative ways. I also learned a lot history-wise like how video games have historically been used to bring attention to social issues like mass shootings and inclusivity. Then I learned so much about the technical aspect of game development like C#, Unity Tools, teamwork, and Github! There was a lot of connections between everything we learned. The history and principles of design helped inspire me to create my first game which taught me valuable skills I brought to Darkness In Me. I had so much fun reading about games like Jeremey Gibson Bond's Introduction to Game Design, Prototyping, and Development. I had so much fun writing about games in these blog posts and assignments, especially when I got to analyze games through the MDA framework. Then I of course had fun playing the games! The social games like Jackbox and Bullshit were my favorite. I also had so much fun designing my own game (I stayed up all night working out the bugs, but I felt so motivated to do it!) I'm genuinely going to miss this class and I wish I could have gone in person. But I will definitely continue to play, learn about, and make games!

[blog9coursereflection]

Blog Post 9: Course Reflection

Throughout this semester, I think that my biggest takeaway from this class has been the concept of MDA and the importance of communications when it comes to game design. MDA of course refers to mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics which I think upon knowing what it is has helped me learn to appreciate games more. Communication was the one thing that I think was the hardest for me to get used to since I don't really like to work in teams and I was kind of forced into that situation in this class since I don't know how to code a game. But I’m glad that I went through because I can now more confidently approach my teammates to check in on progress as well as learning how to set work boundaries/establish self goals for myself and my teammates so that we could get things done in a timely manner. I think what I still need to work on is understanding how to use the burndown chart and daily scrum meetings. I never got the opportunity to try that out since we were such a small team and it did not seem like anybody wanted to try it out but learning how to effectively utilize this would be helpful in other fields of work that require this level of teamwork.

Overall, I think that all of the materials in this class connected well since they cover everything that relates to gaming such as story, gameplay design, art, marketing, and game testing. I think the only thing that might have felt out of place was the burndown chart and daily scrum reading since there was not much emphasis placed on it. It just seemed like it was a one and done concept that we had to learn instead of something that we got to apply over and over again like game testing and paper prototype although I think this would have been more apparent when working on a bigger project with folks in the Game Development Club. 

When it came to learning about games, I think that I definitely learned more from the lectures, videos, and short articles than I did from the textbook. I do not like reading long texts so watching the lectures and videos was easier for me to absorb the material. Some of the short readings were also helpful since I did not have to read for a long period of time. I think that getting to write about games and analyzing their MDA helped me appreciate all of the different elements that went into making them more. I definitely have a better appreciation for game developers now since I know the difficulties of designing a whole game and having to effectively collaborate with a team.

[minthwinkhant]

Learning Reflection on CS108 Intro to Game Studies

I have to drop this first - CS108 is the most fun, engaging, somewhat daunting and most of all rewarding class I have had throughout my SJSU career. Not only do professor Morgan (James) personality and presentation style in class keeps me actively participating, they also motivate to come to class even though this class's the last class on Mondays and Wednesdays for me. The nature of assignments significantly help in building up relevant knowledge, skills and context towards milestones throughout the semester -- from boardgame and Unity prototype to the final project. I particularly liked crafting session reports, not game reviews, on different play sessions of various games. And all these buildup tasks lead to a culminating final exam which involves composing a session report on cool arcade games! (seriously can't ask for more)

If anything struck to my memory, it'd be MDA framework and Jenkins' narratology-ludology analysis take on games. Now, every game I play, I feel like I have more analytical approach to games than just blindly playing it for fun. Another thing that interests me is the efficacy of games as a medium and post-DuChamp take on art as a concept; how media red-flagged Super Columbine Massacre RPG while the other media equivalents such as videos and documentaries were hitting the screen across decades without any criticism at all does beg for deeper cultural analysis of games and their roles with us. This concept relating to games as art and art as a concept in the contemporary era also enlightens my computer science background with a different road towards exposure and appreciation of certain elements in my life. Finally, I loved our last discussion -- where is the Shakespear of games? -- because it challenges me to redefine certain normalized concepts of 'classic' in a given niche or industry as well as the comparative analysis of games as a medium along with other well-established media such as photography, films, sculpture and literature.

Oh yes, I did a lottt of readings, writings, playing and designing games. You know what the best part is? I did not know I was trying because I was enjoying it through the semester.

Although I didn't spend much of my life playing games, I was fond of the arc of Arthur and the Lich King from Warcraft 3. So here's an a cool art by MalakBT of the Frozen Throne to mark my rentry to games and gaming after the end of this semester!

[atomictyrantchild]

How Udyam Registration Can Accelerate Your Business Growth

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced business environment, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are facing numerous challenges, from accessing capital to navigating complex regulations. One of the most effective ways for businesses to unlock growth opportunities is by obtaining Udyam Registration. Introduced by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Udyam Registration is a simple online process that certifies your business as an MSME, enabling it to access various government schemes, financial support, and growth opportunities.

What is Udyam Registration?

Udyam Registration is an online process for businesses to register as Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This process simplifies the traditional registration system and offers a hassle-free way for businesses to formalize their operations. Once a business completes the registration, it receives a unique Udyam Certificate that categorizes it as either a micro, small, or medium enterprise based on investment and turnover thresholds.

How Udyam Registration Supports Business Growth

1. Access to Financial Support and Credit

One of the most significant benefits of Udyam Registration is the easy access to financial support. Udyam-registered MSMEs can apply for collateral-free loans under various government schemes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) and the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE). These schemes offer businesses an opportunity to secure funding without the need for tangible assets as collateral, which can be a game-changer for small businesses that do not have valuable property or inventory to pledge.

2. Government Schemes and Subsidies

Udyam Registration opens doors to a variety of government schemes and incentives that are designed to support the growth and development of MSMEs. These schemes can significantly reduce operational costs and improve overall business efficiency.

Subsidies for Technology Upgradation: The Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) helps MSMEs modernize their production processes by providing financial assistance for purchasing new machinery and adopting cutting-edge technologies. This can result in improved productivity, reduced costs, and higher-quality products, enabling businesses to compete with larger competitors.

Export Promotion: Udyam-registered businesses can take advantage of government programs aimed at promoting exports. By participating in schemes like Market Development Assistance (MDA) and Export Promotion Schemes, businesses can showcase their products at international trade fairs, exhibitions, and online marketplaces, opening up new revenue streams in global markets.

Subsidized Training and Skill Development: MSMEs often face challenges in terms of skill gaps within their workforce. The government offers subsidies for training and skill development programs under schemes like the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). With Udyam Registration, businesses can access these resources, improving the overall skill set of their employees and increasing productivity.

3. Tax Benefits and Exemptions

Udyam-registered businesses enjoy various tax benefits that make them more financially viable. These benefits are aimed at providing financial relief and encouraging business growth:

Lower GST Rates: MSMEs with Udyam Registration are eligible to apply for the Composition Scheme under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act. This scheme allows businesses to pay a reduced GST rate and simplifies compliance, reducing the tax burden on small businesses.

Income Tax Exemptions: Udyam-registered businesses may also qualify for income tax exemptions or reduced rates under certain conditions. The government provides tax relief to MSMEs in the form of exemptions for small businesses with annual turnover below a specified threshold, helping to free up capital for reinvestment in business expansion.

4. Ease of Doing Business and Compliance

Government Procurement: One of the most significant advantages of Udyam Registration is eligibility for government procurement contracts. Many government agencies prioritize MSMEs in the procurement process, providing them with opportunities to secure contracts for the supply of goods and services. This is a lucrative opportunity for small businesses to increase revenue and gain credibility.

Simplified Compliance: Udyam Registration helps streamline the compliance process by reducing paperwork and ensuring that businesses meet the required standards for MSME benefits. This simplifies the often complex process of adhering to labor, tax, and environmental regulations.

5. Improved Credibility and Market Visibility

In today’s competitive business environment, credibility plays a vital role in attracting customers, suppliers, investors, and partners. Udyam Registration helps improve your business’s credibility, as it is an official government recognition of your business’s status as an MSME. The Udyam Certificate can be shared with potential clients and partners to demonstrate that your business is legitimate and compliant with government regulations.

6. Access to Digital Transformation Tools

The government of India has been pushing for the digital transformation of MSMEs through initiatives like the Digital MSME Scheme and the National Digital MSME Program. Udyam-registered businesses can avail themselves of financial support and guidance to adopt digital tools such as cloud-based enterprise solutions, e-commerce platforms, digital marketing, and online payment systems. By embracing these tools, businesses can:

Expand their customer reach: E-commerce platforms allow businesses to access a national or even global customer base.

Improve operational efficiency: Digital tools help automate business processes, manage inventory, and handle finances with greater accuracy.

Enhance customer engagement: Digital marketing strategies like social media campaigns and email marketing can help businesses reach and retain customers more effectively.

7. Fostering Innovation and Research

Udyam Registration also unlocks access to government schemes that promote innovation and research within MSMEs. For example, under the MSME Innovation Scheme, businesses can receive financial assistance for product development, process innovation, and new technology adoption. With access to funding and government support, MSMEs can stay competitive by introducing new products or services and improving existing offerings.

Note: You can now quickly update Udyam Certificate via the Udyam portal.

Conclusion

In a rapidly evolving business landscape, Udyam Registration is not just a formality; it’s a strategic move that can significantly accelerate the growth of your business. By offering access to financial support, government schemes, tax benefits, and digital transformation tools, Udyam Registration empowers MSMEs to scale effectively and compete with larger enterprises. Whether you’re looking to expand operations, reach new markets, or modernize your technology, Udyam Registration provides the resources and credibility needed to achieve your business goals.

[saversphere]

RK ROYAL KLUDGE R75 Mechanical Keyboard Wired with Volume Knob, 75% Custom Gaming Keyboard Gasket Mount RGB Backlit with Software, MDA Profile, PBT Keycaps, Hot Swappable Linear Switch Creamy Sound

See on Amazon I recently had the pleasure of trying out the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R75 Mechanical Keyboard, and I must say it has been an absolute joy! This compact gaming keyboard retains all the essential functions while freeing up valuable desk space with its 75% design. One standout feature of this keyboard is its gasket mount design. The multiple sound-absorbing layers, including the IXPE switch…