Great games know this key to players’ needs!

Great games know this key to players’ needs!

Ever noticed the magic of a successful game?
↳ It’s driven by passionate, engaged players.

(The wheel’s been invented, use it)

Psychologist Abraham Maslow designed a
pyramid to classify human needs in 1943.

🟢 We all have 5 types of needs:

• Basic needs (food, water, shelter).
• Safety needs (health, employment).
• Belonging needs (friendship, intimacy).
• Esteem needs (dignity, respect, purpose).
• Self-actualization needs (creation, beauty).

Players are humans
↳ who seek their needs in your game.

By applying this hierarchy to gamers’ needs,
you build a community around your game.

🟢 Here’s the Players’ Hierarchy of Needs.

Every level aligns with a player’s needs.

• Basic needs → Fun
• Safety needs → Trust
• Belonging → Community
• Esteem needs → Recognition
• Self-actualization needs → Contribution

🟢 The hierarchy guides your questions:

• What do players need?
• Which needs does my game meet?
• How do I convey these needs to players?

Hey, game developers! 👋

Know your players’ needs!

Which level resonates with you?