**UPDATED**

Of the millions of people in the world that don’t play video games daily or weekly, how many actually know what makes a video game interesting, fun, or attention grabbing? Better yet, if you asked a “hardcore gamer” (I’m using quotes since nowadays, everyone who has ever touched a video game considers themselves one) what makes for a good game, would they answer the question with a good response? Probably not.

But, as always, the internet and some talented flash programmers have come to save the day. Now, without any sort of gaming experience, people can finally understand why video games draw such a large audience. As investors strive to understand the multi-billion dollar gaming industry, myriad amounts of people also strive to comprehend what defines a good game, and where their money should be spent (Wii/XBOX360/PS3/PC FTW: All overused).

Now, gamers and non-gamers alike, follow the links and watch and play the flash videos/and games, as part of a four episode series.
Watch and Play:
Episode 1 | Episode 2 | Episode 3 | Episode 4
Here is a little preview and summary, to save time for the internet poor.

Episode 1

Episode 1 starts off with a simple introduction to the basic aspects of video games. Of course, there is no better simple video game than Pong, and the narrator’s Bob and Bub waste no time in explaining the core aspects of Pong and what it means for video games- even up to today. Plus, about halfway through, they let users take control of one of the paddles, allowing them to experience the game (or become massively bored). Basically, this episode informs gamers about the necessity of rules, regulations, and basic gameplay.

Episode 2

In Episode 2, Bob and Bub present a game graphically similar to Arkanoid/Alleyway/Block Dodge, and stress the importance of graphics and its inherent relationship with gameplay. They start with a basic setup that evolves into a five player block race, slowly showing the little changes that improve the game, and allowing the player to participate in each stage of the game.

As the player progresses through the game, the two narrators add elements that further improve the game and create a far better gaming experience. They present some of their key points after completing the game, and reinforce the fact that a game is meant to challenge, entertain, and please a user (and not make them cry, as seen in Superman 64).

Episode 3

In Episode 3, the player/viewer is presented with a game without instructions. Bob and Bub allow the understanding of the game to sink into the player’s mind, creating the experience that many gamer’s already know and love: the discovery of the game’s inner workings.

When the player is done solving the puzzles, they explain the concept of game depth that forces the player to become more involved in a video game, making them learn or decipher puzzles, techniques, or even solve simple problems with trial and error. Clearly, the true nature of video games aims to create an enthralling experience that engulfs the player’s mind and thoughts. It’s a shame that so many games today seem to completely miss this point.

Episode 4

The main theme for Episode 4 is the idea of a strong and meaningful relationship between the player, the game, and the player’s character in the game. Bob and Bub give the viewer/player a chance to choose their own respective character, each with their own respective special power (invisibility FTW). As the player plays a simple game of tag, the understanding of the concept of control schemes and unit abilities is developed. Just like in a real-time strategy (like the one I am playing right now- Command and Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars (try it out!)), the player that can most effectively use the abilities that are unique to their own character or unit will win.

As Bob and Bub recap their main points, the conclusion for the gamers, students, and newbies is that allowing players to choose forces players to develop strategies that actually coincide with their abilities. For instance, I chose invisibility, so my strategy was to hide or cloak myself whenever the person who was ‘it’ came close. By comprehending this basic concept of gaming (choice begets depth), game developers can create better overall games as a result.

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