Successful+Online+Games

Overview
Online games tend to be very addicting. There are certain key characteristics of online games that keep players coming back. What are these characteristics, and what keeps these games so popular and successful? The success of a game depends on many different things. The obvious reason a game becomes successful is that it’s fun to play. Players will keep coming back to play the game if it keeps them interested and engaged. However, lots of games can be fun. It is what else the game has to offer that keeps it successful.

According to “Gamespot," an online site that contains tons of information about gaming, there are several important features a game should have in order for it to be successful. First, an online gaming site should consider its performance. It should be able to take all of the action that is happening on screen, and still run at a relatively fast pace. Another important feature a game should have is easy accessibility. It should be easy to use. This means having both an easy sign-in system that does not require users to answer a lot of questions, and is also easy to learn. An online game should also be fun. It should be fast paced so that the players do not get bored, and it should be interesting enough to keep the players engaged. Online games should be sure to have user consent at all times. The game should not allow things to happen to the user without the user knowing. In other words, the user should have complete control over what they do in the game. Another important element an online game should have, is social interaction. The game should allow, and even encourage, online players to connect with each other. Online games will be more successful if players can reach out to other players, rather than playing alone. Another key to a successful online game is customization. When players are allowed to build their own characters, they can feel like individuals in the game. This stronger feeling of individuality allows players to feel like they truly are playing the game, instead of blending in with the other characters. A final important aspect for an online game to have is expandability. The game should not stay the same for too long. It should change to keep things interesting for the players. However, this must be done without disturbing the users. All of these features can combine to help make an online game very successful and appealing to users.

“Game Developers Choice Awards” gives awards to the best game developers every year. The 2010 Game Developers Choice Awards had eleven different categories. These categories were: game of the year, best writing, best game design, best technology, best visual arts, best debut game, innovation award, best handheld game, best audio, best downloadable game, and best new social/online game. Each of these categories recognizes a different aspect of online games. In addition to these categories there are three “Special Awards” called: lifetime achievement, pioneer award, and ambassador award. The winner for game of the year was “Red Dead Redemption,” by the Rockstar San Diego. It is a very popular, western-based video game. Its features include a detailed plot, and player interaction. It is a fun adventure for players, because it allows them to take part in many different activities. A complete list of the winner for each category can be found here.

Successful online games require careful consideration. To be a successful online game developer, it is important to consider the content, who will be playing, and how they will be playing.

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