# Game Loops & Decisions

## Meaningful Decisions Means Fun

> "A game is a series of interesting decisions."
>
> Sid Meier, GDC 1989

People are easily bored with situations where they have no agency, or choice. This is why it's important to carefully consider what ***meaningful*** decisions players will be able to make in your Experience. This is what makes games fun.

{% hint style="success" %}
**Hint:** Even if players can't win, they will continue playing if they can influence the outcome.
{% endhint %}

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Types of Decisions</strong></td><td><ul><li>Short-term - tactical, reactive</li><li>Long-term - strategic, proactive</li></ul></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Timing of Decisions</strong></td><td><ul><li>Real time - pressured by game events</li><li>Turn based - time to plan decisions</li></ul></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Characteristics of Decisions</strong></td><td><ul><li><p>Trade-offs/<a href="risk-and-reward"><strong>Risk vs. Reward</strong></a></p><ul><li>Immediate vs. Persistent Effects</li><li>Indirect "Ripple" Effects</li></ul></li><li>Meet Short and/or Long Term Goals</li><li>Economic/Resource Management</li><li>Survival/Situational</li></ul></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Influences on Player Decisions</strong></td><td><ul><li>Preferred play style(s)</li><li>Personal beliefs/feelings</li><li>Assumptions from previous games</li><li>Conclusions of how your game works based on information or experiential learning opportunities you provide</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table>

## What is a Gameplay Loop?

A loop is any repeating action you may find in a game. The core loop is the sequence of main actions repeated in your game, such as exploring a level, collecting resources, and using the resources to build something, then using what you built to explore more areas and so on.&#x20;

Secondary loops are additional sequences of actions that can happen on the side, like visiting a shop to buy equipment to explore more areas faster or leveling up your equipment at a blacksmith so you can explore harder to reach areas when you get back into the core loop again.

## Examples by Genre

Below are some sample gameplay loops you may find in various game types to help you get started. You can combine game genres and create more complex loops. The new Game Rules system allows you to create variables, unlocking many new gameplay types, which could be included in secondary loops to make your core loop more interesting.

### [Tower Defense](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/tower-defense)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Build Defenses:</strong></td><td>Strategically place towers or units to defend against waves of enemies.</td><td><strong>Wave Combat:</strong></td><td>Survive and repel waves of enemies using the placed defenses.</td><td><strong>Resource Management:</strong></td><td>Collect resources to build and upgrade towers.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Tower Upgrades:</strong></td><td>Upgrade individual towers to enhance their effectiveness.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Research:</strong></td><td>Unlock new tower types or abilities through research.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Obby (Obstacle Course)](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/solo-platforming)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards" data-full-width="false"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Navigate Obstacles:</strong></td><td>Overcome a series of challenging obstacles and platforming elements.</td><td><strong>Precision Movement:</strong></td><td>Execute precise jumps, slides, and maneuvers to progress.</td><td><strong>Time Trials:</strong></td><td>Complete courses as quickly as possible.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Cosmetic Customization:</strong></td><td>Unlock and customize the appearance of the character.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Community Courses:</strong></td><td>Create and share custom obstacle courses with other players.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Resource Management](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/resource-management)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Gather Resources:</strong></td><td>Collect raw materials or currency through various means.</td><td><strong>Build/Expand:</strong></td><td>Use resources to construct or upgrade structures, or expand territory.</td><td><strong>Economic Optimization:</strong></td><td>Manage resources efficiently to sustain growth and development.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Research &#x26; Development:</strong></td><td>Invest in technologies or upgrades to improve resource efficiency.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Trade:</strong></td><td>Engage in trading with other players or AI entities for additional resources.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### Idle

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Automated Progression:</strong></td><td>Gain resources or progress over time through simple actions or passively.</td><td><strong>Upgrades:</strong></td><td>Invest earned resources in upgrades to boost passive gains.</td><td><strong>Prestige Systems:</strong></td><td>Reset progress for additional bonuses and accelerated growth.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Quests &#x26; Achievements:</strong></td><td>Complete tasks for extra rewards.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Social Features:</strong></td><td>Connect with other players in guilds or through shared leaderboards.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Action](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/action-adventure)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Combat:</strong></td><td>Engage in real-time, fast-paced combat against enemies.</td><td><strong>Skill Mastery:</strong></td><td>Learn and master various combat skills and abilities.</td><td><strong>Exploration:</strong></td><td>Navigate through diverse environments filled with challenges.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Loot and Gear:</strong></td><td>Collect and upgrade weapons, armor, and equipment.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Challenges:</strong></td><td>Complete additional challenges or side quests for extra rewards.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Social Hub](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/social-hubs)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Social Interaction:</strong></td><td>Connect and communicate with other players in a shared space.</td><td><strong>Mini-Games:</strong></td><td>Engage in collaborative or competitive mini-games.</td><td><strong>Cosmetic Customization:</strong></td><td>Personalize avatars or living spaces.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Events &#x26; Gatherings:</strong></td><td>Participate in scheduled events or gatherings.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Achievements:</strong></td><td>Unlock achievements related to social interactions and participation.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### Social Deduction

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Deception:</strong></td><td>Players take on roles with hidden agendas, working to achieve or thwart objectives.</td><td><strong>Discussion &#x26; Voting:</strong></td><td>Engage in discussions to identify or mislead others, followed by voting.</td><td><strong>Investigation:</strong></td><td>Gather information to uncover other players' true identities and motives.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Roles &#x26; Abilities:</strong></td><td>Unique roles with special abilities or information.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Dynamic Scenarios:</strong></td><td>Varied game scenarios or objectives to keep gameplay fresh.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Survival](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/survival)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Resource Scavenging:</strong></td><td>Collect resources to satisfy hunger, thirst, and other needs.</td><td><strong>Crafting:</strong></td><td>Craft tools, weapons, and shelter for survival.</td><td><strong>Threat Avoidance:</strong></td><td>Evade or confront hostile entities and environmental dangers.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Base Building:</strong></td><td>Construct and upgrade a base or shelter.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Dynamic Weather/Cycles:</strong></td><td>Adapt to changing environmental conditions.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Backrooms](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/horror-backrooms)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Exploration:</strong></td><td>Navigate surreal and mysterious environments representing liminal spaces.</td><td><strong>Puzzles:</strong></td><td>Solve puzzles or challenges to progress.</td><td><strong>Atmosphere &#x26; Horror:</strong></td><td>Experience an eerie atmosphere with potential horror elements.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Narrative Unraveling:</strong></td><td>Discover the backstory and lore of the backrooms.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Survival Elements:</strong></td><td>Manage resources and avoid or confront unsettling entities.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Horror](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/horror-backrooms)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Survival:</strong></td><td>Navigate dark and unsettling environments while avoiding or confronting threats.</td><td><strong>Atmospheric Horror:</strong></td><td>Experience tension and fear through atmospheric elements.</td><td><strong>Puzzle-Solving:</strong></td><td>Solve puzzles to uncover the story or progress.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Resource Scarcity:</strong></td><td>Manage limited resources such as ammunition or health items.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Narrative Unraveling:</strong></td><td>Discover the narrative through found documents or audio logs.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Puzzle](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/puzzle-games)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>CORE GAMEPLAY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Puzzle-Solving:</strong></td><td>Engage in a series of challenges that require critical thinking and logic.</td><td><strong>Exploration:</strong></td><td>Discover clues and hidden elements to progress through the puzzle.</td><td><strong>Narrative Integration:</strong></td><td>Integrate puzzles seamlessly into the game's narrative.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Difficulty Levels:</strong></td><td>Offer various difficulty levels for players with different skill levels.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Dynamic Puzzles:</strong></td><td>Incorporate puzzles that evolve or change dynamically.</td></tr></tbody></table>

### [Adventure](https://docs.sandbox.game/en/creator/game-maker/creative-guides/experience-guide/action-adventure)

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Adventure</strong></td><td><strong>Exploration:</strong></td><td>Explore a rich, narrative-driven world with diverse environments.</td><td><strong>Questing:</strong></td><td>Accept and complete quests to advance the storyline.</td><td><strong>Character Interaction:</strong></td><td>Engage with non-player characters to uncover lore and receive guidance.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Choice &#x26; Consequence:</strong></td><td>Make decisions that impact the narrative or character relationships.</td><td></td><td><strong>SECONDARY LOOP</strong></td><td><strong>Collectibles &#x26; Achievements:</strong></td><td>Hunt for hidden collectibles and unlock achievements.</td></tr></tbody></table>


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