This gameplay clip demonstrates the Guardian Ludeme: the element of restricted control in gameplay. I wrote a feature on this at http://www.jasperwuts.nl/?p=303. In short, the idea is that by involving the player as an indirect guardian angel instead of the direct actor, the game designer has the ability to manipulate the degree of player control in a natural way. In this sense, understanding how to employ this element in gameplay helps in solving the playstoric paradox: if the power of control by the ‘guardian angel’ (read: player) is running low, the actor will make its own decisions. This gives game designers the opportunity to control narrative progression. Although this gameplay clip is very basic, this idea becomes clear when you try to move a lot; try it out!

Tags: guardian, angel, ludeme, gameplay, design, simple, demo, clip, restrict, restricted, control

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