component varies based on the type of project. For video games, a standard set of constraints do exist; however, those constraints are often difficult to define as other constraints shift. Video Game Design Pro provides both the structure and the details. The details aid by shaping the local constraints as they relate to the larger project.

 

For instance, the “controls” section in Video Game Design Pro is particularly interesting because it foregrounds current constraints and the potential for expansion. For instance, most games currently assume a standard controller or keyboard and mouse control scheme. Others—like Guitar Hero, the Eye Toy games, DDR, various Nintendo DS games, the upcoming Wii games, and others—are expanding those traditional control-based design constraints. In addition to these, other constraints can also shape game design controls when users with disabilities are considered.

 

 

 

10/7/2006

Video Game Design Pro’s “control” section opens by explaining the relevance of the components to the overall design, stating:

In describing the character’s movements, identify the physical commands that the player needs to execute in order to accomplish them. Describe the different modes that the controls will have, for example, the buttons in a combat screen will be drastically different from those within the main menu. To accomplish this quickly and easily, it is recommended that you run the Controller Wizard, select the console or platform controller that the game is being developed for, then enter the corresponding button command references.

 

 

 

The wizard then brings up a screen that asks which system. That question, in turn, leads to an image of the controller for that system and a list of controls which designers can map to functions. The list of controls is important. In terms of design constraints and project definition, however, the opening statement on how to describe the player in relation to the controls is even more important because it shows how the constraints shape the project and how they can change the project.