Ex 9 - BLOG / Basic Elements / MMORPG Game Design

Texture, seen in The World of Warcraft MMORPG game, is crucial for the game's environment to exist. All of the 3D objects have been created by 2D textures that create the environment like the landscape, buildings, and characters. For a 3D game, it is imperative that the game has texture otherwise the objects will look flat and it will resemble a 2D nature. Texture also creates depth in the game so that the user will be able to differentiate what is close/far. For example, in this picture we have trees and a small well in the background to create depth. The texture is what creates the 3D objects to look realistic and moveable. The texture (and shape) defines the body movement of the character.

The line, is the next important basic element in game design. The line is used as an indicator for progression in the form of text. Text, in the World of Warcraft especially, is used to constantly throughout the game to talk to other players, read quests, and for functioning the character. The MMORPG community is powered by communication between players which is in text. Also, for computer programmers, text is used to create the game for it to function as a whole. The programming is how the game exists, so it is obviously the most important factor in game design, otherwise, there would be no game.

Also the line builds off of points and dots to define surface and 3D graphics. The line is a crucial tool in the building of the game to create various objects. The line used along with a series of vectors and dots creates 3D objects. Sketching with the use of lines is also crucial for developing game concepts and objects to the game. Also, lines show structure in Gameplay, the lines of buildings and creatures helps define the environment. The structure also helps in the mimickry of the real world. Although, tw0-dimensional in nature (which is contradictory to a 3D game) , the line is a helpful tool for the game development and gameplay.

Movement, is what defines the game to exist. The whole game is based off of movement. It frames the motion of the character, frame by frame. When all is put together it creates a visual movment. Movement also directs the eye to look for certain parts of gameplay. The game designer in, The World of Warcraft has the camera follow the character in order to direct it's vision to the environment ahead. Game developers try to mimic movement in the real world to create a sense of reality for the player. Especially true of MMORPG, the reality of the game helps the user to feel more connected.