Game Design Fundamentals: Designing and Analyzing Non-Digital Games

Every great game, whether digital or analog, is built on a foundation of solid rules, engaging player interactions, and balanced mechanics. This course guides you through the fundamental principles of game design by focusing on non-digital systems like board games, card games, and role-playing games. You will transition from a passive player to an analytical designer capable of creating, testing, and refining your own game concepts. By studying the core structures of analog games, you will master the universal rules of engagement, player agency, and game balance that apply to any medium. What you'll learn: Understand foundational game design terminology, core loops, and player motivation frameworks; Analyze diverse game genres, from classic board games and card games to modern cooperative systems; Create balanced game mechanics using probability, resource management, and strategic decision-making; Apply modern prototyping techniques to quickly test and iterate on your game ideas using simple physical materials; Design clear rulebooks and instructional guides that make your games accessible and easy to learn; Practice systematic playtesting to gather constructive feedback and eliminate design flaws. The course begins with essential definitions of play, games, and systems, then moves into practical written exercises where you will draft rules, map out mechanics, and analyze existing designs. This course is designed for absolute beginners, aspiring game designers, and writers who want to learn the mechanics of play without needing programming skills. Start your journey into the world of game design today and bring your tabletop ideas to life.