WHAT MAKES A GOOD QUALITY DIGITAL GAME?

GAMEPLAY MECHANICS
OR GRAPHICS?

When it comes to digital games, there is often a debate about what makes a game
truly great—is it the graphics or the gameplay? According to statistics, 88% of games
prioritise gameplay over visuals in high-quality digital games, challenging the notion that
cutting-edge graphics are crucial for a game's success (Badoni et al., 2022). Admittedly, a
high-quality game should excel in both graphics and gameplay; however, while
impressive visuals can captivate players, engaging gameplay mechanics are essential for
long-lasting enjoyment and player immersion. This essay will compare and contrast the
different strengths of both gameplay mechanics and graphics in order to determine the
stronger quality of a good digital game.

Gameplay refers to the interactive elements and mechanics that make up the core
experience of a game. This includes the controls, objectives, challenges, and overall design of
the game (Lundgren and Björk, 2003). A seamless gameplay experience ensures that players
can fully immerse themselves in the game without facing unnecessary obstacles. When
considering gameplay as a key quality of a good digital game, you first have to look at each
of its components, such as playability and game context (Fabricatore, C., 2007). Playability
refers to how easy and enjoyable it is for players to engage with a game. A highly playable
game ensures that players can quickly grasp the game mechanics and enjoy a smooth gaming
experience. Playability is essential for attracting and retaining players, as it directly impacts
their satisfaction and enjoyment. The game context of a game encompasses its setting,
storyline, characters, and overall theme. The combination of gameplay, playability, and game
context significantly impacts the player experience. Players are more likely to enjoy and
appreciate a game that offers a perfect balance of engaging gameplay, high playability, and a
captivating game context. (Araki, 2023). Several games have been praised for their
exceptional gameplay, high playability, and immersive game contexts. Titles such as "The
Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild," "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt," and "Red Dead
Redemption 2" are often cited as examples of games that excel in all three areas. These
games have captivated players worldwide with their engaging gameplay, seamless
playability, and rich game contexts that enhance the overall gaming experience. (Fernandez,
2021). A game may have stunning graphics, but if the gameplay is lacking, players are
likely to lose interest quickly and move on to something else. Although one must
acknowledge the importance that graphics hold in the gaming world.

Graphics play a vital role in enhancing the visual appeal of a game. High-quality
graphics can draw players into a rich and detailed game world, immersing them in stunning
landscapes and lifelike characters (Wu, 2012). In order to appreciate and understand the
importance of graphics, one must first grasp the context of the graphical appeal of
digital games. Attributes such as colour, shape, dimensionality, and expression of game
characters have a significant effect on players' emotions and interactions with game non-
player characters (Homer et al. 2019). Colour is a fundamental aspect of character design
that influences mood, atmosphere, and player perception. Vibrant colours can evoke
feelings of excitement and energy, while darker tones may create a sense of mystery or
danger. The shape of game characters also plays a vital role in conveying emotions and
characteristics. Characters with exaggerated or unique shapes can be more memorable and
visually appealing to players. The silhouette of a character can instantly communicate its
identity and purpose within the game world. Expressions on character faces are essential for
establishing connections with players on an emotional level. Detailed facial animations and
expressions can convey a wide range of emotions, making characters more relatable and
human-like. The ability of characters to express joy, sadness, anger, or fear can deepen the
player's immersion in the game narrative and enhance the overall storytelling experience.
Dimensionality, in terms of how characters are rendered in three-dimensional space, adds
depth and realism to their design. The use of shading, lighting, and textures further enhances
the sense of depth and presence, making characters feel more tangible and interactive to
players. By paying attention to these elements and leveraging the capabilities of modern
graphics technology, game developers can create immersive and emotionally engaging
experiences that resonate with players on a profound level. Ultimately, graphics serve as a
powerful tool for bringing game characters to life and enriching the overall gaming
experience.

Remarkable graphics can undoubtedly enhance the visual appeal and immersion
within a game (Dunlap, 2016). Despite that, gameplay mechanics are what ultimately
determine the level of engagement, challenge, and enjoyment that players experience (Badoni
et al., 2022). Strong gameplay mechanics, including innovative controls, compelling
narratives, and well-designed interactions, have the power to captivate players for hours on
end, fostering a deeper connection and sense of accomplishment that surpasses the impact of
graphics alone. In the grand scheme of things, gameplay mechanics reign supreme in
delivering a truly memorable and satisfying gaming experience.

In conclusion, after a comprehensive analysis comparing and contrasting the strengths

of gameplay mechanics and graphics in digital games, it is evident that gameplay mechanics
hold a more significant role in defining the quality of a game. Great graphics certainly add to
a game's visual appeal and immersion, but gaming mechanics are what really keep players
interested and provide a lasting challenge. An engaging and memorable gaming experience is
greatly influenced by the complex design of the gameplay mechanics, which include controls,
interactions, story depth, and general game dynamics. Thus, in the ongoing discussion about
what constitutes a high-quality digital game, gameplay mechanics emerge as the stronger
determinant, establishing the foundation for a truly exceptional gaming experience that goes
beyond the influence of graphics.