Game Design Lessons Hub: Finding Fun

The Finding Fun series dissects the design DNA of outstanding games, revealing exactly what makes them compelling to play. Each analysis breaks down a game's core fun factors and extracts actionable design lessons you can apply to your own projects. Browse the complete collection below, organized by game and core fun factor. Whether you want to explore the design brilliance of a specific title or understand how particular mechanics create engagement, this series provides focused insights for any looking to design their own games.

Game	Quick Navigation	Core Fun Factor
A Link to the Past	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	world
Animal Crossing	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	social
Burnout Paradise	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	flow
Dark Souls	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	flow
Final Fantasy X	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	world
God of War 3	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	power
Hades	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	power
Halo 2	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	social
Katamari Damacy	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	unique
Marvel vs Capcom 3	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	social
Mega Man X	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	flow
Perfect Dark	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	social
Phantasy Star Online	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	world
Pokémon Red	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	world
Return of the Obra Dinn	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	unique
World of Warcraft	Core Loop What's Fun Takeaways	world

Browse By Core Fun Factor

Each core fun factor is the primary source of fun in the game. Click any of the links below to dive into any posts that feature that core fun factor.

Unique MechanicsFun through unique mechanics or design choices that are novel and engaging.Flow StateFun through the feeling of being in the zone, where the player is fully immersed in the game.Social InteractionFun through social interaction with other players, whether it's cooperative or competitive.World BuildingFun through a rich and engaging world that is full of detail and personality that makes you want to explore.Power FantasyFun through power fantasy where the player at some point feels like they can do anything.