This book explores game feel, the tactile and sensory experience of controlling a virtual character or object. Swink examines how input, response, physics, animation, and feedback create the sensation of interaction. The book also provides metrics for measuring game feel and case studies from classic games like Super Mario 64 and Asteroids.
Key Themes & Concepts
1️⃣ Defining Game Feel
- Game feel is more than just responsiveness; it’s about how a game makes players feel through control.
- It combines input, physics, animation, sound, and polish to create virtual sensation.
- The "magic circle" of interactivity: Players perceive movement, weight, and physics through digital feedback.
2️⃣ Game Feel & Human Perception
- Players expect realistic motion based on their real-world experiences.
- Latency & responsiveness: Even small delays in input can ruin game feel.
- Feedback loops: How movement, animation, and sound reinforce player actions.
3️⃣ The Game Feel Model of Interactivity
- Three essential elements:
- Real-time control – Instant feedback from player input.
- Simulated space – The game world, physics, and environment.
- Polish & feedback – Animation, sound, and visual effects enhancing perception.
4️⃣ Mechanics of Game Feel
- Tuning movement mechanics: Acceleration, deceleration, inertia, and weight.
- Camera control & perspective: Affects how players perceive movement.
- Collision & response: Smooth, intuitive object interactions improve immersion.
5️⃣ Metrics for Measuring Game Feel
- Input Metrics: Measuring latency, precision, and responsiveness.
- Response Metrics: How quickly and smoothly the game reacts to player actions.
- Context Metrics: How the game world and physics interact with the player.
- Polish Metrics: Effects like animation, particles, and sound.
- Metaphor & Rules Metrics: How game rules shape perception of movement.
6️⃣ Case Studies & Examples
- Super Mario 64: Responsive jumping & precise movement.
- Asteroids: Simple but effective physics-based control.
- Bionic Commando: Grappling mechanics & momentum.
- Raptor Safari: Open-world physics-based movement.
Conclusion
Swink emphasizes that game feel is the heart of interactivity. Through fine-tuned mechanics, physics, animation, and feedback, designers can create immersive and satisfying gameplay.