Game Development Reference
In-Depth Information
Participants
n
Multiple
players
that can activate the same (or similar)
attack mechanisms
.
n
A
strength
resource. A player that loses all his strength is eliminated from the
game.
n
An optional
energy
resource that is consumed by upgrades. In some cases, energy
and strength are the same.
n
At least one
upgrade mechanisms
to improve the offensive or defensive capabil-
ities of each player.
collaborations
The attack mechanisms allow players to drain or steal each other's strength.
Activating the attack and upgrade mechanisms require the player to invest energy or
time. The upgrade mechanisms improve the player's offensive or defensive capabili-
ties or restore the player's strength.
consequences
Arms race introduces many strategic options for players to explore, which can
make the game difficult to balance. In general, it is best to implement an intransi-
tive (rock-paper-scissors) mechanism in the upgrade options so that every strategy
has a counter-strategy. For example in many medieval war games, heavy infantry
beats cavalry, while cavalry beats artillery, and artillery beats infantry. In this case,
the best strategy and most effective army composition is partially determined by
the choices made by your opponent.
Many strategic options allow players to develop their own playing styles and strate-
gies. For example, if a player likes a particular mechanism, she can use it more often,
while if she dislikes a mechanism, she might ignore it.
Using an arms race pattern typically lengthens a game, because players always have
the option to play defensively at first. This can even delay confrontation and con-
flict for a long time.
implementation
What resources are required to pay for upgrades is an important design decision
when implementing an arms race. When strength and energy are the same, the
player might over-invest and make himself vulnerable, especially if the upgrades
take time to take effect. When energy is separate from strength, you need to con-
sider carefully what the relationship between strength and energy actually is.
Strength might determine the production rate of energy. This would create a strong
positive, destructive feedback loop. Energy might also be converted into strength, or
energy might be invested to produce strength over time. There are many options.
