CHAPTER SIX
The Elements Support a Theme
FIGURE6.1
To write a mighty book, you must choose a mighty theme.
—Herman Melville
Mere Games
Great themes and deep meanings are often associated with literature or with great works of art. Is it pretentious for a “mere game” to aspire to the same levels of greatness?
As game designers, we must confront the painful truth that many people view games, in all their forms, as meaningless diversions. Usually, when I press people who hold this view, I can get them to admit some game that is very important to them. Sometimes it is a sport, either one they have played or one they watch religiously. Sometimes ...
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