The Differences in Value Perception When Creating Consumer Games vs. Social Games

The Differences in Value Perception When Creating Consumer Games vs. Social Games

Introduction:
Creating games, whether they are consumer games or social games, requires a different perspective and understanding of the gaming industry. In this article, we will explore the contrasting values and approaches when designing and developing these two types of games. We will delve into the unique aspects of consumer games and social games, and how they differ in terms of business scope, game design, quality at release, and the incorporation of alpha gameplay. Additionally, we will discuss the concept of alpha state and its impact on game design.

Consumer Games vs. Social Games:
When comparing consumer games and social games, there are three significant gaps from the perspective of the consumer side towards the social side:

1. Business Scope and Game Design:
   One notable difference between consumer games and social games is the extent to which the business scope influences the game design. In social games, the focus is on attracting and engaging users, encouraging them to spend money on in-app purchases. Therefore, the game design revolves around nurturing beginner players to become intermediate or advanced players, creating an enjoyable experience that motivates them to invest in the game.

2. Quality at Release:
   Another significant difference lies in the quality of the game at the time of release. Social games often prioritize quick releases, with quality ranging from 200% to 300% compared to consumer games. This discrepancy is due to the emphasis placed on attracting and retaining a large user base, ensuring a steady stream of revenue for the game.

3. Incorporation of Alpha Gameplay:
   Consumer games involve the incorporation of alpha gameplay, which focuses on achieving an alpha state characterized by feelings of pleasure, confidence, and optimal decision-making. This state is attained by reaching the top of a group's hierarchy, triggering the release of dopamine and adrenaline. Alpha games capitalize on this state to provide players with a sense of enjoyment and excitement.

The Clash Between Alpha and Flow States:
The alpha state and flow state, which is a psychological state of optimal experience, often collide in the gaming industry. While consumer games strive to create a flow state for players, where they are fully immersed and engaged in the gameplay, alpha games prioritize the alpha state, optimizing decision-making and confidence. The challenge lies in finding a balance between these two states to create an enjoyable and rewarding gaming experience.

The Role of Game Design and Monetization:
When alpha games combine with the freemium monetization model, a phenomenon known as "PayToWin" often arises. This concept refers to the ability to gain an advantage in the game by making in-app purchases. Game design in alpha games needs to ensure that spending money enhances the gaming experience, whether it amplifies the alpha or flow state.

The Motivation Behind Social Game Development:
The directors and teams working on social games are driven by the motivation to succeed in the gaming industry. Online social games rely heavily on their commercial success, as failure to attract and retain players can lead to the discontinuation of the game, halting events, updates, and eventually shutting down servers and services.

Conclusion:
Creating consumer games and social games requires a distinct understanding of the gaming industry and the target audience. While consumer games focus on immersive gameplay and quality at release, social games prioritize monetization and fostering a dedicated user base. To succeed in the industry, game developers and designers must strike a balance between optimizing the alpha and flow states, creating a rewarding and enjoyable gaming experience for players.

Actionable Advice:

1. Understand your target audience: Take the time to study and analyze the preferences, behaviors, and motivations of your target audience. This knowledge will guide your game design decisions and help you create a more engaging and tailored experience.

2. Balance monetization and gameplay: When incorporating in-app purchases or freemium models, ensure that spending money enhances the gaming experience without compromising gameplay balance or creating a pay-to-win environment. Strive for fairness and value for both paying and non-paying players.

3. Continuously iterate and improve: Embrace the concept of early work and be open to feedback and improvements. Release early versions of your ambitious projects to gain valuable experience and learn how to respond to them. Iterate and refine your game based on player feedback, ensuring a constant evolution and enhancement of the gaming experience.

In conclusion, the differences between creating consumer games and social games lie in their business scope, game design, quality at release, and the incorporation of alpha gameplay. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for game developers and designers to create successful and engaging gaming experiences. By finding a balance between the alpha and flow states, optimizing monetization, and continuously iterating, game creators can thrive in the ever-evolving gaming industry.