What makes a great video game - Todd Howard explains

TL;DR

Tone in games is crucial for creating a unique and engaging experience, whether it's grounded in reality or more fantastical.

Transcript

let's even step back as you mentioned Tony you mentioned tone a lot what do you mean by Tone it's all of it together if you look at I think you can flip through let's just take fantasy you know you can sort of look at a couple images or things and know how does Lord of the Rings different from Game of Thrones that is different than um you know ethe... Read More

Key Insights

• 👾 Tone in games helps differentiate them and creates a unique experience for players.
• ❓ Starting with a realistic foundation and gradually introducing fantastical elements can enhance immersion.
• 👾 The inclusion of dragons requires careful consideration of their design and impact on the game's tone.
• 🥌 Tone is subjective, but developers often aim for a relatable and believable experience.
• 👾 Game worlds should feel grounded in reality, whether through historical accuracy or plausible future technologies.
• 👾 Pacing and gradual introduction of fantastical elements can help players adjust and feel more connected to the game world.
• 👾 The reactions of in-game characters to fantastical elements can mirror the player's experience and enhance immersion.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is tone important in fantasy and sci-fi games?

Tone sets the overall atmosphere and feel of the game, making it distinct from other games in the same genre. It helps establish the game's unique identity and guides players' expectations.

Q: How does tone affect the inclusion of fantastical elements in games?

Tone influences the pacing and introduction of fantastical elements. Starting with a more grounded experience and gradually introducing these elements helps players adjust and feel immersed in the game world.

Q: Is tone subjective, or are there specific guidelines to follow?

Tone is subjective to a certain extent. However, developers often aim for a tone that feels relatable and believable, whether it's through historical references, plausible future technologies, or a combination of both.

Q: How does the inclusion of dragons impact the tone of a game?

Dragons can significantly impact the tone of a game. Their appearance and behavior should align with the game's overall tone and world-building. In Skyrim, for example, dragons are portrayed as powerful, menacing creatures that gradually become a central part of the game's narrative.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Tone in fantasy and sci-fi games determines how different they are from each other and how grounded they feel in reality.

• Starting with a realistic experience and gradually introducing fantastical elements can make a game more welcoming and relatable.

• The inclusion of dragons in games like Skyrim is a deliberate decision that requires careful consideration of their appearance and how they fit into the game's overall tone.