Jul 20, 2020 23:00:00

What is the 'core loop' that is indispensable for making every game?

The developer of the game engine '

Pico-8 ', which was created by virtually reproducing the PC environment of the 1980s, explains in an easy-to-understand way the concept ' core loop ' that can be said to be the basis of various games.

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https://teamavocado.co/core-loop/

A chart of 'core loop' with the theme of a tennis game looks like this. First, the player serves.

Then, the opponent CPU hits back.

The player hits the ball that the opponent hit back.

The rally continues until you or your opponent makes a mistake. This is the basic core loop.

In addition, you can play the Pico-8 tennis game 'Pico Tennis', which was the subject, by clicking this link for free.

According to Jason Tu, who is involved in the development of Pico-8, one core loop exists in every sport and game. For example, in baseball, one loop is 'the pitcher throws the ball, and the batter hits or misses the ball.' In American football, 'the quarterback receives the ball and plays.' Two loops.

There are various other loop elements in baseball such as 'runner goes around base', 'inning (change of offense and defense)', and 'series (series of games)', but basically the smallest core loop is important. thing. This is because if the loop, which is the minimum unit, does not work, it will not work as a game in the first place.

Such core loops exist in the form of 'conversation,' even in visual novel games that lack action elements, Tu points out.

“I think a “good game” is a game in which the time the player spends far exceeds the development time, because if the game is really fun, the player will play it many times, People make the game only once.'

Also, regarding the point of making a 'good game', 'The length of the core loop is important. For example, in 'Pico Tennis', one rally is about 1 minute. We assume a player who does not have much time If so, a loop of a minute or so would be a good choice, and that would allow players to play a few rounds during a coffee break,' he said, setting the core loop for the intended player is important. I pointed out.