Book Review – A Theory of Fun

“A Theory of Fun” by Raph Koster is a book that attempts to explain why games are fun and why they have become such a beloved form of entertainment. While the book is well-written and thought-provoking, it ultimately falls short in delivering a truly compelling theory of fun.

The book is divided into two main parts. The first part explores the history and evolution of games, from ancient board games to modern video games. Koster argues that games are a fundamental part of human culture, and that they serve a variety of social, psychological, and educational functions. He also discusses the various elements that make games fun, such as challenge, surprise, and reward.

The second part of the book is where Koster attempts to develop his theory of fun. He argues that games are fun because they provide a mental workout for our brains, stimulating our problem-solving skills and helping us learn and grow. However, while this is an interesting idea, Koster doesn’t provide enough evidence to support it, and his theory feels incomplete and underdeveloped.

One of the strengths of the book is its accessibility. Koster writes in a clear and engaging style, and he uses a variety of examples and anecdotes to illustrate his points. The book is also well-organized and easy to follow, making it a good choice for anyone interested in the history and psychology of games.

However, the book’s main weakness is its lack of depth. While Koster raises many interesting questions and ideas, he doesn’t provide enough evidence or analysis to support his claims. His theory of fun feels like it could use more development and refinement, and he doesn’t fully explore the implications of his ideas for game design or player experience.

Overall, “A Theory of Fun” is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the history and psychology of games. While it falls short in delivering a truly compelling theory of fun, it raises many interesting questions and ideas that are sure to spark further discussion and exploration in the field.

Book Review – The Art of Game Design

“The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses” by Jesse Schell is a comprehensive guide to game design that covers a wide range of topics and perspectives. While the book has many strengths, it also has a few weaknesses that may make it less appealing to some readers.

One of the strengths of the book is its structure. Schell organizes the book around a series of “lenses” or perspectives that game designers can use to approach their work. These lenses cover a wide range of topics, from game mechanics and storytelling to aesthetics and psychology. The lenses are well-organized and easy to understand, and they provide a useful framework for thinking about game design.

Another strength of the book is its breadth. Schell covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of game design to more advanced topics like virtual reality and game balance. He also includes interviews with prominent game designers and developers, which provide valuable insights into the creative process.

However, one weakness of the book is its depth. While Schell covers many topics, he only scratches the surface of each one. Some readers may find that they want more detailed information on certain topics, or that they disagree with some of Schell’s ideas. Additionally, some of the lenses may be less relevant to certain types of games or game designers, which could make the book less useful for some readers.

Another potential weakness of the book is its tone. While Schell is clearly passionate about game design and has a wealth of knowledge to share, some readers may find his writing style to be overly enthusiastic or self-promoting. Additionally, some readers may find that the book lacks a critical perspective, as Schell is generally positive about the state of the gaming industry and the potential of games as a medium.

In conclusion, “The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses” is a valuable resource for anyone interested in game design. While it has some weaknesses, such as its lack of depth and potentially polarizing tone, it offers a wealth of useful information and perspectives. Whether you’re a seasoned game designer or a newcomer to the field, this book is sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration for your work.