Creating an engaging game begins with understanding what players truly want. Veteran designer Chris Avellone emphasizes that prioritizing the player’s experience is key to success. His approach, rooted in the belief that “players are selfish,” has guided some of the most influential titles in RPG history.

Reflecting on his work on Planescape: Torment, Avellone explains that making the game feel personal and immersive was fundamental. “The more you can tailor the experience to the player, the better it works,” he notes. This philosophy has shaped not only his projects but also the broader landscape of game design, encouraging developers to craft stories and mechanics centered around player agency and immersion.

Industry experts agree that understanding player psychology is vital. According to a 2022 study from the Game Developers Conference, games that focus on player-centric storytelling see higher engagement and satisfaction. For gamers, this means more meaningful choices and a deeper connection to the game world.

What does this approach mean for future game design? Simply put, putting players first remains a proven strategy for creating memorable, impactful gaming experiences.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.