Game Mechanics: Advanced Game Design

Online Appendix B. Design Pattern Library

Static Engine

• Type: Engine

• Intent: Produces a steady flow of resources over time for players to consume or to collect while playing the game.

• Motivation: A static engine creates a steady flow of resources that never dries up.

Applicability

Use a static engine when:

• You want to limit players’ actions without complicating the design. A static engine forces players to think how they are going to spend their resources without much need for long-term planning.

Structure

Participants

• Energy that is produced by the static engine

• A source that produces energy

• Actions the player can spend energy on ...