How Games Manipulate Emotions

Most Game Devs Miss This Key Element!

They refine mechanics, visuals, and stories.
But they ignore the core: player emotions.

Why?

Because emotions seem unmeasurable.
But emotions are the heart of gaming.

Here’s a 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗽-𝗯𝘆-𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗽 𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸:

[1] Define the Desired Emotions

Ask: What do you want players to feel?
Excitement? Fear? Joy? Clarity starts here.

[2] Align Emotions with Genre

Not every emotion fits every game.
Your genre sets emotional expectations.

[3] Identify Emotional Triggers

Pinpoint key moments to evoke emotions.
Story twists? Boss fights? It all counts.

[4] Map the Emotional Cycle

• Stimulus (an event in the game).
• Realization (seeing its value).
• Reaction (a decision or action).
• Expectation (hopes for outcomes).

[5] Use Emotional Theories

Maslow: Tap into player motivations.
Plutchik: Mix and intensify emotions.

[6] Adapt Gameplay Dynamically

Change based on real-time player input.
Shift NPCs or difficulty for balance.

[7] Balance Emotional Load

Avoid extremes of constant highs or lows.
Neutral gameplay lets players recover.

Design games that don’t just entertain,
↳ but move players emotionally.

Which emotion will your game master?

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