Towards the Definition of a Framework and Grammar for Game Analysis and Design

Abstract

The present paper defines an original approach to game analysis and design able to characterize a given game in a simple, yet efficient, way. Inspired by models widely used across the gaming industry, the proposed framework named A.G.E. is built by defining and layering different concepts: core player Actions, resulting Game-play and emotional Experience of players. These are all linked to each other by the game's own rules and goals to form a cohesive unit that can help in exposing the inner workings of any game. The model is then elaborated further into a regular grammar to provide a more formal and rigorous justification of the proposed framework and overall approach.