ASSIGNMENT 4 IDEAS

        Convert a Video Game into a playable board game is the brief given for assignment 4 of the first semester. Designing, prototyping and developing a board game will pose no issues this time around, however successfully translating a video game to a board game will present some issues. What game to choose? How do I successfully translate the mechanics from an electronic game to a table top game? Do I go big with this or keep it simple? These are the questions that will eventually be answered. Theses answers will determine if the board game is successful or not.

    The preferable approach with this assignment is to choose a game I like personally - I already know the mechanics, I know the heart of the game and designing a board game inspired by it will be enjoyable, which is incredibly important when undertaking a complicated task such as this one.

Immediately my thoughts drift to a few of my favourite games;

• Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception
• Mass Effect 3
• Portal 2
• Left 4 Dead
• Mirror's Edge

Uncharted 3: Without a doubt my favourite game. Its fanbase is huge, its story and visual design are unique and the main mechanics are easily translatable. However the best approach with this game is to have a turn based board game with item collection. To me, that seems predictable and boring unless something interesting can be done with it.

Mass Effect 3: An incredibly unique game in terms of visual and story. With an endless choice of mechanics and story arcs to choose from, their would be no lack of ideas. However the game itself is an incredibly complex game, therefore, with the deadline fast approaching already, it doesn't seem sensible to try and design and devlop a board game based on an RPG (even though I would enjoy it).

Portal 2: One of the most unique games this generation could produce one of the most unique board games. However, on initial brainstorming, trying to work in the co-operative elements whilst ensuring the game isn't repetitive, posed issues. These issues had solutions, but the board game quickly became a massive task that was simply too ambitious. Save it for another day?

Left 4 Dead: This idea was the one I started with, however the board game had already been done... after seeing that, I couldn't possibly design the game - I had a serious mind block. I'm definitely going to get my hands on a copy though... when it's for sale that is.

Mirror's Edge: Probably my favourite game after Uncharted. Its visuals are incredible, the mechanics are unbelievable, unique and satisfying. The story however, not so much. However the mechanics are simple but effective, and the visual identifiable with this game alone. With theses two facts in mind, developing a board game of this would be perfect. However, how do I replicate the speed and quick decisive actions the video game demands?


        A couple of theses games will pose serious issues, however no matter which I choose, I will undoubtedly face a challenge ahead. Therefore after initial brainstorms I have come to the conclusion that Mirrors Edge would be the perfect choice. Not too complicated but not too predictable - perfect. 

NEXT POST: REVIEW: MIRRORS EDGE