Objective-based game
Definition and Overview
An objective-based game is a type of video game in which players are tasked with achieving specific goals or objectives within the game to progress or win. This contrasts with other types of games where progression may be based on score accumulation, survival, or exploration. Objective-based games can be found across various genres, including action, adventure, role-playing, and strategy games.
History
Objective-based games have been a part of the video game industry since its early days. The concept of having specific goals within a game was introduced as a way to provide players with a sense of purpose and direction. This was a departure from the more traditional score-based games, where the main goal was simply to achieve the highest score possible.
Game Design
In objective-based games, the design of the objectives is crucial to the overall gameplay experience. The objectives should be challenging enough to engage the player, but not so difficult that they become frustrating. They should also be varied and interesting, to keep the player engaged and prevent the game from becoming monotonous.
Types of Objectives
There are several types of objectives that can be used in objective-based games. These include:
- Completion Objectives: These require the player to complete a specific task or set of tasks. This could be anything from completing a level, defeating a boss, or finding a specific item.
- Collection Objectives: These require the player to collect a certain number of items. This could be anything from collecting coins, to finding hidden objects, to gathering resources.
- Survival Objectives: These require the player to survive for a certain amount of time or until a certain event occurs. This could involve surviving waves of enemies, or surviving until a timer runs out.
- Puzzle Objectives: These require the player to solve a puzzle or series of puzzles. This could involve solving a riddle, completing a maze, or figuring out a complex mechanism.
Objective-Based Game Genres
Objective-based games can be found in many different genres. Some of the most common include:
- Action Games: In these games, objectives often involve defeating enemies, completing levels, or achieving a high score.
- Adventure Games: These games often involve objectives related to exploration, puzzle-solving, and story progression.
- Role-Playing Games (RPGs): In RPGs, objectives often involve character development, quest completion, and story progression.
- Strategy Games: These games often involve objectives related to resource management, territory control, and tactical combat.
Impact on Player Experience
The use of objectives in games can greatly impact the player's experience. Objectives provide a sense of purpose and direction, giving players clear goals to strive for. This can make the game more engaging and rewarding, as players feel a sense of accomplishment when they achieve their goals.