You can’t go far without basic concepts like mechanics, gameplay, and UX. Here, we clarify these fundamental ideas that help you navigate the world of game development and communicate effectively with your team.
Understanding the theory behind these concepts is essential. A solid grasp of theory leads to better, more consistent practice — it helps structure your design thinking, spot weak points early, and make intentional decisions instead of relying on guesswork.
That said, theory alone is not enough. That’s where Analysis comes in: it teaches you how to interpret, critique, and reflect on game systems in context. The more precisely you can analyze, the deeper your understanding of theory becomes.