Tirada del tarot como herramienta para definir mecánicas de juego

How to define game mechanics using inspiration cards?

Entering the world of gamification can be a challenge, but with the right tools and a clear approach, you can create engaging and effective strategies. Androk Marzewski's Gamification Inspiration Cards are a valuable resource for this, and in conjunction with a framework, they allow you to design unique experiences based on game mechanics. Now let's explore how you can use these cards to enhance your players' experience and achieve your gamification goals.

What should we consider before choosing game mechanics?

Before you dive into using the inspirational cards tool, there are several key aspects to consider that will ensure an effective choice of mechanics:

1. Player segmentation- Knowing your audience is crucial. According to Marzewski, different types of players have different motivations and preferences, and this will guide the choice of mechanics that best suit each group.

2. Primary objective and desired level of engagement: Defining these two elements from the start will allow you to have a clear map of where to direct your gamification design efforts.

3. Platforms and restrictions: Taking into account the limitations of cost, time and audience dispersion will help you adapt the mechanics to each type of platform, whether digital or analog.

4. Inspiration cards: These cards are a resource created to open up a range of possible mechanics, each intended for a specific type of player or situation.

What is the framework for game design like?

The proposed framework is structured in four critical moments within the player's experience, functional to map and organize the mechanics:

• Discovery: here the game is launched and the initial expectation is generated. It is not only about presenting the game, but also about hooking the player from the beginning.
• Onboarding: This is the moment to welcome and explain the rules. It is about making sure the players understand how to play and what is expected of them.
• Midgame: This is the heart of the game, where interactions and mechanics come to life.
• Endgame: This is the closing of the game with final battles, rewards or recognitions.

What mechanics and resources can be considered?

When using the cards, each one offers a specific mechanic to evaluate, from tutorials in onboarding to reward strategies in the midgame or endgame. Some of the questions when facing each card are:

• Will you use tutorials during onboarding? Tutorials are crucial to effectively guide the player from their first interaction.

• Should you implement a progress bar? This element is essential to show the player their progress and motivate them to continue participating.

• How will you involve mystery and narrative? Although the Mystery Box may not fit in every strategy, the continuous narrative can be a central axis to maintain interest.

• Will the rewards be random or specific? Defining whether your players will receive rewards randomly or after completing specific tasks is critical to keeping motivation high.

Final Recommendations for a Successful Tarot Card Spread

Cards may also indicate restrictions or additional elements, such as the virtual economy or boss battles. At the end of the process, it is vital to review how many and which mechanics have been selected and adjust them according to time and restrictions.

• Choose to focus on the types of players that truly represent your audience.
• Re-evaluate the need for each mechanic and how it contributes to the overall goal of your strategy.
• Make sure the mechanics chosen are feasible in terms of resources and time available.

Find the best way to integrate these tools and framework into your strategy. Keep motivating your players and don't stop learning new ways to improve your gamified game design skills.