Game analysis is the process of examining and understanding the different elements of a game, such as its mechanics, gameplay, story, and graphics, in order to determine its strengths and weaknesses. It involves a thorough examination of the game’s design, objectives, and player interactions, as well as its impact on players and the gaming industry.
Analyzing a game requires a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of the game’s genre and target audience, and the ability to identify patterns and trends in player behavior. Whether you’re a game developer, a journalist, or simply a passionate gamer, game analysis can provide valuable insights into the world of gaming and help you to appreciate the art and science behind your favorite games.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different techniques and methods used in game analysis, and provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to uncover the secrets of your favorite games. From understanding game mechanics to analyzing player behavior, we will cover everything you need to know to become a game analysis expert. So, grab your gaming hat and let’s dive into the world of game analysis!
What is Game Analysis?
Understanding the Fundamentals
Key Concepts and Terminology
Before delving into the specifics of game analysis, it is crucial to familiarize oneself with certain key concepts and terminology. These foundational elements serve as the building blocks for understanding the intricacies of game analysis.
Game Mechanics
Game mechanics refer to the rules, systems, and procedures that govern gameplay. They encompass various aspects such as player interactions, resource management, and progression systems. Understanding game mechanics is essential for assessing the overall balance and enjoyability of a game.
Game Design
Game design encompasses the creative process behind developing a game, from conceptualization to implementation. It involves various disciplines such as art, programming, and storytelling, all working together to create a cohesive and engaging experience for players.
Game Balance
Game balance refers to the equilibrium between different elements within a game, such as player abilities, weapons, and levels. Achieving balance is crucial for ensuring fair and enjoyable gameplay, as it prevents any one element from dominating others.
Player Psychology
Player psychology examines the cognitive and emotional processes that drive player behavior in games. Understanding how players make decisions, experience emotions, and form habits can help game designers create more engaging and satisfying experiences.
The Importance of Game Analysis
Enhancing Gameplay Experience
Game analysis can provide valuable insights into the player experience, helping designers identify areas for improvement and enhancement. By analyzing player behavior, preferences, and challenges, designers can create more engaging and immersive gameplay experiences.
Improving Game Design
Through a thorough analysis of game mechanics, design, and balance, developers can identify areas where their games excel and where they fall short. This information can then be used to refine and improve the design process, resulting in better games overall.
Identifying Balance Issues
Game analysis can help designers pinpoint imbalances in their games, allowing them to address these issues and create a more fair and enjoyable experience for players. Balance is crucial for maintaining player engagement and preventing frustration.
Catering to Player Psychology
By understanding player psychology, game designers can create experiences that resonate with players on a deeper level. This understanding can lead to the development of more emotionally impactful and memorable games, ultimately resulting in greater player satisfaction.
The Game Analysis Process
Step 1: Preparation
Setting Objectives
The first step in the game analysis process is setting objectives. This involves defining the goals and scope of the analysis. Objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, an objective could be to analyze player behavior in a particular game level to identify areas for improvement.
Identifying Metrics
Once objectives have been set, the next step is to identify the metrics that will be used to measure progress towards those objectives. Metrics should be chosen based on their relevance to the objectives and their ability to provide actionable insights. Common metrics in game analysis include player engagement, retention, monetization, and satisfaction.
Gathering Data
With objectives and metrics identified, the next step is to gather data. This can involve collecting player data from the game itself, as well as external sources such as social media and online forums. Data should be collected in a systematic and ethical manner, taking into account privacy and security concerns.
Analyzing Data
Once data has been gathered, the next step is to analyze it using appropriate tools and techniques. This may involve using statistical methods to identify trends and patterns, or using machine learning algorithms to predict player behavior. The goal of data analysis is to uncover insights that can inform decision-making and improve the game.
Presenting Findings
Finally, the findings of the analysis should be presented in a clear and concise manner. This may involve creating visualizations or reports that highlight key insights and recommendations for improvement. The goal is to provide actionable insights that can be used to improve the game and increase player engagement and satisfaction.
Step 2: Data Collection
Observational Data
Observational data refers to the information that is gathered by directly observing players as they interact with the game. This can include aspects such as the amount of time spent on specific tasks, the frequency of certain actions, and the order in which players complete certain objectives. Observational data can be collected through a variety of methods, including video recordings, screen captures, and even live observation through software tools such as spectator modes in games like Dota 2 or League of Legends.
Logfile Analysis
Logfile analysis involves examining the data that is generated by the game itself, such as player actions, item purchases, and game state changes. This data can be stored in log files, which can then be analyzed to extract valuable insights into player behavior and game balance. Logfile analysis can also be used to identify patterns and trends in player behavior, such as which strategies are most effective or which game mechanics are causing the most frustration for players.
Surveys and Player Feedback
Surveys and player feedback can provide valuable insights into player preferences, motivations, and experiences with the game. This type of data can be collected through a variety of methods, including in-game surveys, focus groups, and social media monitoring. By gathering feedback from players, game developers can gain a better understanding of what players like and dislike about the game, which can help inform design decisions and improve the overall player experience.
Step 3: Data Interpretation
Trends and Patterns
Once the data has been collected and organized, the next step in the game analysis process is to interpret the data. This involves identifying trends and patterns in the data that can provide insights into the game’s mechanics, player behavior, and overall performance.
Trends and patterns can be identified by analyzing the data over time or across different variables. For example, if the data includes information on player engagement, trends may be identified by analyzing engagement levels over time or across different types of content. Similarly, if the data includes information on player behavior, trends may be identified by analyzing the frequency of certain actions or by comparing player behavior across different levels or game modes.
Comparative Analysis
Another way to identify trends and patterns in game data is through comparative analysis. This involves comparing different variables or datasets to identify correlations or differences. For example, comparative analysis may involve comparing player engagement levels across different platforms or comparing player behavior in different game modes.
Comparative analysis can also be used to identify areas where the game may be underperforming compared to industry standards or to identify areas where the game can be improved. For example, comparative analysis may reveal that player retention rates are lower than industry standards, indicating a potential issue with the game’s pacing or content.
Correlations and Causality
Identifying correlations and causality is another important aspect of data interpretation in game analysis. Correlations can be identified by analyzing the relationship between different variables, such as player engagement and revenue or player behavior and in-game purchases. Identifying correlations can help game developers understand how different variables impact the game’s overall performance and can inform decisions about how to optimize the game’s mechanics and features.
Causality, on the other hand, refers to the relationship between cause and effect. In game analysis, identifying causality can help game developers understand the underlying reasons behind certain trends or patterns in the data. For example, identifying the cause of low player engagement levels may lead to changes in the game’s mechanics or content that improve player engagement.
Overall, data interpretation is a critical step in the game analysis process. By identifying trends and patterns, conducting comparative analysis, and identifying correlations and causality, game analysts can gain valuable insights into the game’s mechanics, player behavior, and overall performance. These insights can inform decisions about how to optimize the game’s features and mechanics, leading to improved player engagement and revenue.
Step 4: Recommendations and Implementation
Prioritizing Changes
The fourth step in the game analysis process involves making recommendations and implementing changes based on the insights gained from the previous steps. To effectively prioritize changes, consider the following factors:
- Impact on gameplay: Assess how the changes will affect the gameplay experience, including game balance, player engagement, and overall enjoyment.
- Feasibility: Evaluate the technical feasibility and resources required to implement the changes, as well as any potential challenges or risks associated with the implementation.
- Player feedback: Consider the feedback received from playtesting and other sources, such as social media and online forums, to understand player expectations and preferences.
Testing and Iteration
Once the changes have been prioritized, it’s essential to test them thoroughly before implementing them in the final game. This process may involve multiple rounds of testing and iteration to ensure that the changes meet the desired objectives and do not negatively impact the gameplay experience.
During testing, it’s crucial to gather feedback from players and analyze the data to identify any issues or areas for improvement. This feedback can then be used to make further adjustments and iterations, refining the game until it meets the desired standards.
Monitoring Results
After implementing the changes, it’s essential to monitor the results to ensure that they have the desired impact on the game’s performance. This may involve tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as player retention, revenue, and user engagement, as well as gathering feedback from players and analyzing the data to identify any unintended consequences or areas for further improvement.
By continuously monitoring the results and making adjustments as needed, game developers can ensure that their games remain competitive and engaging, providing players with an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Game Analysis Tools and Techniques
Manual Observation
Advantages
Manual observation is a popular and straightforward technique for game analysis. It involves carefully watching gameplay footage or live streaming to gain insights into the game mechanics, player behavior, and overall experience. Some of the advantages of manual observation are:
- Deep understanding of gameplay: By observing gameplay, analysts can gain a deep understanding of how the game works, including mechanics, dynamics, and strategies. This can help in identifying areas for improvement or optimization.
- Contextual awareness: Manual observation allows analysts to take into account the context of the game, such as the player’s objectives, the state of the game, and the actions of other players. This contextual awareness can lead to more accurate and meaningful insights.
- Holistic approach: Manual observation provides a holistic view of the game, as it considers various aspects such as graphics, sound, and user interface. This comprehensive approach can help identify issues or opportunities that may be overlooked by other analysis techniques.
Limitations
Despite its benefits, manual observation has some limitations that analysts should be aware of:
- Time-consuming: Observing gameplay can be a time-consuming process, especially when watching hours of footage or live streaming. This may limit the scope of the analysis or require significant resources to complete.
- Subjectivity: Manual observation is subjective by nature, as analysts’ observations and interpretations may be influenced by their personal biases, experiences, or opinions. This can lead to inconsistencies or inaccuracies in the analysis.
- Lack of data: Manual observation may not provide a comprehensive dataset, as it relies on the analyst’s ability to identify relevant information during the observation. This may limit the depth and scope of the analysis, particularly for more complex games or scenarios.
To mitigate these limitations, analysts can employ other game analysis techniques, such as data mining, player interviews, or statistical analysis, to complement their manual observations and provide a more well-rounded understanding of the game.
Data Mining and Analytics
- Enables the extraction of valuable insights from large datasets
- Helps identify patterns and trends in player behavior
- Provides valuable information for game balancing and monetization strategies
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Facilitates the identification of player preferences and churn risks
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Requires access to reliable and comprehensive data sources
- Data quality and accuracy issues can affect the reliability of the insights generated
- Technical expertise and resources are needed to effectively mine and analyze the data
- Ethical considerations need to be taken into account when collecting and using player data
Playtesting and User Research
Playtesting and user research offer several advantages for game analysis. By gathering feedback from players, developers can identify issues and areas for improvement, refine game mechanics, and enhance the overall player experience.
- Early bug detection: Playtesting allows developers to detect bugs and glitches early in the development process, preventing them from becoming more significant issues later on.
- Balancing game mechanics: Feedback from players can help developers balance game mechanics, ensuring that the game is fair and engaging for all players.
- Identifying player needs: User research helps developers understand player needs and preferences, enabling them to create games that cater to a wide range of player types.
- Improving game enjoyment: By incorporating player feedback, developers can improve the overall enjoyment of the game, increasing player satisfaction and retention.
While playtesting and user research offer numerous benefits, there are also some limitations to consider.
- Cost and time: Conducting playtesting and user research can be time-consuming and expensive, requiring significant resources to set up and manage.
- Sample bias: Playtesting and user research rely on a sample of players, which may not accurately represent the broader player base. This can lead to biased feedback and inaccurate conclusions.
- Potential for misinterpretation: Player feedback can be subjective and open to interpretation, leading to misunderstandings and miscommunications between developers and players.
- Lack of long-term data: Playtesting and user research focus on short-term feedback, which may not capture long-term player behavior or preferences.
Despite these limitations, playtesting and user research remain valuable tools for game analysis, providing insights and feedback that can help developers create better games. By carefully considering the advantages and limitations of these techniques, developers can maximize their effectiveness and create games that meet the needs and preferences of players.
Game Analysis in Different Genres
Role-Playing Games (RPGs)
Character Progression
Role-playing games (RPGs) are a popular genre that emphasizes character development and progression. The character progression system is a crucial aspect of RPGs, as it allows players to grow and evolve their characters over time. In character progression, there are several elements to consider, such as:
- Leveling: The primary way that characters progress in RPGs is through leveling. As players complete quests, defeat enemies, and complete challenges, their characters gain experience points (XP). These XP are used to increase the character’s level, which in turn unlocks new abilities, skills, and equipment.
- Skill Trees: Many RPGs feature skill trees, which allow players to choose how their characters develop. Skill trees typically consist of a web of interconnected abilities, and players can spend their XP to unlock new abilities or upgrade existing ones.
- Equipment: Equipment plays a significant role in character progression. Players can acquire new weapons, armor, and trinkets that provide various bonuses and abilities. The strategic choices that players make about which equipment to use can significantly impact their characters’ effectiveness in combat and other situations.
Balancing Combat and Roleplaying
One of the key challenges in RPGs is balancing combat and roleplaying. RPGs are typically divided into two categories: those that focus primarily on combat (such as Diablo or Dark Souls) and those that focus more on roleplaying and storytelling (such as Fallout or The Witcher).
Combat-focused RPGs typically require players to engage in frequent battles with enemies, using a combination of weapons, abilities, and tactics to emerge victorious. These games often feature complex combat systems, with various mechanics such as stamina, dodging, and blocking.
Roleplaying-focused RPGs, on the other hand, emphasize player choice and decision-making. These games often feature branching dialogue trees, multiple endings, and complex character relationships. The player’s choices can have a significant impact on the story and the world around them.
Balancing combat and roleplaying can be a difficult task for game designers. Combat-heavy games risk becoming too repetitive or frustrating, while roleplaying-focused games can become too slow-paced or convoluted. However, when done well, RPGs can provide an immersive and engaging experience that draws players in for dozens of hours.
Narrative and Storytelling
RPGs are known for their rich narratives and storytelling. The story is often the driving force behind player motivation and engagement. In many RPGs, the story is presented through a combination of dialogue, cutscenes, and quest text.
Game designers must carefully craft the narrative to ensure that it is engaging and compelling. This involves creating well-developed characters, a coherent plot, and meaningful player choices.
RPGs also often feature multiple endings, which can depend on player choices and actions throughout the game. This adds replayability and encourages players to explore different paths and make different decisions.
However, there is a fine line between player agency and railroading. Players must feel that their choices have a meaningful impact on the story, but the story must also remain coherent and make sense.
In conclusion, RPGs are a genre that requires careful consideration of character progression, balancing combat and roleplaying, and narrative and storytelling. By understanding these elements, game designers can create immersive and engaging experiences that draw players in for dozens of hours.
First-Person Shooters (FPS)
Weapon Balance
Weapon balance is a crucial aspect of game analysis in first-person shooters. In order to ensure a fair and competitive gameplay experience, game developers must carefully assess the strengths and weaknesses of each weapon in the game. This includes analyzing factors such as damage output, accuracy, range, and rate of fire.
For example, a sniper rifle may have high damage output but a slower rate of fire, while an assault rifle may have a higher rate of fire but lower damage output. Game developers must strike a balance between these factors to create a weapon that is both powerful and balanced.
In addition to assessing the individual weapons, game developers must also consider the overall balance of the game. This includes analyzing factors such as the distribution of power among different weapon types, the effectiveness of each weapon in different situations, and the impact of weapon upgrades on gameplay.
Movement and Control
Movement and control are also important factors in game analysis for first-person shooters. Players must be able to move around the game environment with ease, while also having full control over their character’s movements and actions.
Game developers must analyze factors such as movement speed, jump height, and camera control to ensure that players have a smooth and responsive gameplay experience. They must also consider the impact of movement on game balance, such as the ability to wall jump or double jump, and how these movements may affect gameplay.
Competitive Balance
Competitive balance is a key aspect of game analysis in first-person shooters. In order to create a fair and balanced multiplayer experience, game developers must carefully analyze the game’s mechanics and balance them accordingly.
This includes analyzing factors such as player health, armor, and weapon balance, as well as the impact of each of these factors on gameplay. Game developers must also consider the impact of player skill and team composition on game balance, and make adjustments as necessary to ensure a fair and competitive experience for all players.
Overall, game analysis in first-person shooters requires a thorough understanding of the game’s mechanics and the ability to balance them in a way that creates a fair and enjoyable gameplay experience for all players. By carefully analyzing factors such as weapon balance, movement and control, and competitive balance, game developers can create a game that is both engaging and balanced, providing players with a truly enjoyable gaming experience.
Strategy Games
Resource Management
Resource management is a crucial aspect of strategy games. It involves the careful allocation and management of resources such as gold, wood, stone, and food. Players must balance the production and consumption of resources to maintain a healthy economy and fund their expansion efforts. Resource management is particularly important in games such as Age of Empires and Civilization, where players must build and maintain a thriving civilization while fending off rival empires.
Unit Balance
Unit balance is another important factor in strategy games. Each unit must have its own strengths and weaknesses, and players must understand how to use them effectively. For example, in games like Starcraft and Warcraft III, players must choose the right combination of units to build a strong army and counter their opponents’ strategies. Balancing the strengths and weaknesses of different units can be a complex task, but it is essential for achieving victory.
Exploits and Counters
Exploits and counters are a key aspect of strategy games. Players must identify and exploit their opponents’ weaknesses while also defending against their own. For example, in games like Chess and Go, players must anticipate their opponents’ moves and plan their own accordingly. Identifying and countering exploits is an essential skill in strategy games, and players must constantly adapt to their opponents’ strategies to stay ahead.
Mobile Games
User Engagement
When analyzing mobile games, it is crucial to understand the factors that contribute to user engagement. This includes identifying the key elements that keep players interested and involved in the game. These elements can include storylines, character development, challenges, rewards, and social interaction.
Monetization Strategies
Monetization strategies in mobile games are a critical aspect of the gaming industry. There are various methods that game developers can use to monetize their games, such as in-app purchases, ads, and subscriptions. Analyzing these strategies can provide insights into how games can be made more profitable while still providing value to players.
Accessibility and Retention
Accessibility and retention are also essential factors to consider when analyzing mobile games. Games must be designed to appeal to a wide range of players, including those with different skill levels, preferences, and accessibility needs. Analyzing how games can be made more accessible and how to retain players can help developers create more successful games.
Game Analysis in Practice
Case Study 1: Successful Game Analysis
The Problem
In this case study, we will explore the successful game analysis conducted by a team of researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The team was tasked with identifying the key factors that contributed to the popularity of a popular mobile game, Candy Crush Saga. The game’s developer, King, had already generated significant revenue from the game, but the researchers aimed to uncover the specific design elements that led to its success.
The Solution
The researchers adopted a mixed-methods approach to their analysis, combining both qualitative and quantitative techniques. They began by conducting a content analysis of the game’s design, examining its rules, mechanics, and visual elements. They also conducted interviews with a sample of players to gain insights into their experiences and motivations for playing the game.
To supplement their qualitative findings, the researchers used a machine learning algorithm to analyze a large dataset of player behavior. This allowed them to identify patterns in player engagement and retention, as well as to determine the key features of the game that kept players coming back for more.
The Results
The researchers’ analysis revealed several key factors that contributed to the success of Candy Crush Saga. First, they found that the game’s simple rules and intuitive gameplay made it accessible to a wide range of players, including those who were not experienced gamers. Second, they identified the game’s social features, such as the ability to send lives to friends and compete on leaderboards, as key drivers of engagement and retention. Finally, they found that the game’s use of reward schedules, in which players received rewards for completing levels or achieving certain milestones, was highly effective in keeping players motivated and engaged.
Overall, the researchers’ successful game analysis demonstrated the value of adopting a multifaceted approach to understanding player behavior and game design. By combining qualitative and quantitative methods, they were able to gain a more nuanced understanding of the factors that contributed to the game’s success and to identify opportunities for future innovation in game design.
Case Study 2: Challenges in Game Analysis
The Challenge
As with any complex field, game analysis is not without its challenges. Developers and researchers face a variety of obstacles when trying to analyze and understand games. One of the main challenges is the sheer volume of data that needs to be processed. Games are complex systems with many interconnected elements, and it can be difficult to identify which elements are most important for gameplay. Additionally, game analysis often requires a deep understanding of both game design and player psychology, which can be difficult to acquire.
The Lessons Learned
Despite these challenges, many developers and researchers have found ways to overcome them and successfully analyze games. One key lesson is the importance of using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. By using both numerical data and more subjective methods like player interviews, researchers can gain a more complete understanding of gameplay. Another important lesson is the need to approach game analysis with a strong theoretical foundation. By understanding the underlying principles of game design and player psychology, researchers can better interpret the data they collect.
The Future
As the field of game analysis continues to evolve, it is likely that new challenges will arise. However, by learning from the lessons of past studies and continuing to develop new methods and tools, researchers will be well-equipped to meet these challenges. Additionally, as new technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality become more prevalent, game analysis will need to adapt to these new platforms. By staying up-to-date with the latest developments in game design and technology, researchers can continue to provide valuable insights into gameplay and player behavior.
Best Practices and Future Trends
Embracing Data-Driven Decision Making
In the rapidly evolving world of game analysis, embracing data-driven decision making has become increasingly important. By collecting and analyzing data on various aspects of a game, such as player behavior, in-game purchases, and user retention, game analysts can gain valuable insights into player preferences and habits. These insights can then be used to inform game design decisions, such as which features to prioritize or which elements of the game to enhance.
Utilizing Machine Learning and AI
Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) are increasingly being used in game analysis to automate and streamline various aspects of the process. For example, machine learning algorithms can be used to identify patterns in player behavior, predict user retention rates, and recommend game improvements based on data analysis. AI can also be used to generate realistic non-player characters (NPCs) and to personalize the gaming experience for individual players.
The Importance of Iterative Design
Iterative design, also known as prototyping, is a critical component of game analysis. By creating multiple prototypes and testing them with players, game analysts can gather feedback and refine the game design based on player preferences. This iterative process allows game designers to make data-driven decisions and ensure that the final product meets the needs and expectations of the target audience.
The Future of Game Analysis
As technology continues to advance, the field of game analysis is poised for significant growth and evolution. With the rise of virtual and augmented reality, game analysts will need to consider how these new technologies will impact player behavior and game design. Additionally, as more games are developed for mobile devices, game analysts will need to adapt their methods to accommodate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this platform.
Opportunities and Challenges
As the field of game analysis continues to evolve, there are both opportunities and challenges to consider. On the one hand, advances in technology and data analysis offer new ways to gain insights into player behavior and preferences. On the other hand, the increasing complexity of game design and the rapidly changing nature of the gaming industry present new challenges for game analysts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, game analysis is a critical component of the game design process, helping game developers create engaging and successful games. By embracing data-driven decision making, utilizing machine learning and AI, and employing iterative design, game analysts can gain valuable insights into player behavior and preferences. As the field continues to evolve, game analysts will need to adapt their methods to accommodate new technologies and changing industry trends.
Key Takeaways
- Data-driven decision making is crucial for game analysis.
- Machine learning and AI can automate and streamline various aspects of the process.
- Iterative design allows game analysts to gather feedback and refine game design based on player preferences.
- Virtual and augmented reality and mobile gaming present new challenges and opportunities for game analysis.
Recommended Resources
- “Game Analysis: A Practical Approach” by Brenda Brathwaite and Ian Schreiber
- “The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses” by Jesse Schell
- “Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to Creating Innovative Games” by Tracy Fullerton
FAQs
1. What is game analysis?
Game analysis is the process of examining a game in detail to understand its mechanics, rules, and gameplay. It involves identifying patterns, strategies, and tactics used by players, as well as analyzing the game’s design and mechanics.
2. Why is game analysis important?
Game analysis is important for several reasons. It can help players improve their gameplay by identifying weaknesses and strengths, and by learning new strategies and tactics. It can also help game developers design better games by understanding what works and what doesn’t, and by identifying areas for improvement.
3. What are the different types of game analysis?
There are several types of game analysis, including:
* Game mechanics analysis: examining the rules and mechanics of the game
* Player behavior analysis: analyzing how players interact with the game
* Balance analysis: assessing the balance of power and resources in the game
* Strategy analysis: identifying and analyzing different strategies used by players
* User experience analysis: evaluating the overall experience of playing the game
4. How do you conduct game analysis?
To conduct game analysis, you need to first define your goals and objectives. Then, you can use various tools and techniques, such as playtesting, data analysis, and observation, to gather information about the game. It’s important to approach the analysis with an open mind and to consider multiple perspectives.
5. What are some common pitfalls to avoid when analyzing a game?
Some common pitfalls to avoid when analyzing a game include:
* Being too biased or subjective in your analysis
* Focusing too much on specific aspects of the game, rather than looking at the game as a whole
* Ignoring or dismissing player feedback or observations
* Not considering the game’s context and target audience
* Not adapting your analysis as you learn more about the game