Free Game Element Manipulation
The possibility for players to manipulate game elements regardless of game rules.
Some games are designed so they allow players to freely interact with the game element regardless of if this complies with its rules. While this can make gaming activities 'degenerate' into other more playful activities, it can also let players fine tune the experience to maximize their mutual enjoyment.
Contents
Examples
Basically all traditional Board Games and that are not mediated through a computer system support Free Game Element Manipulation. Several of those played on computers do allow this as well, especially in single-player mode, but this depends on the implementation. An example of a more modern game that allows Free Game Element Manipulation even in computerized form is the iPhone och iPod touch versions of the M.I.G. quiz game.
Tabletop Roleplaying Games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay let players move representations of themselves freely, although game masters may overrule their actions for various reasons.
Using the pattern
Self-Facilitated Games are by their nature open to Free Game Element Manipulation even if it may cause discussions among players. Human Dedicated Game Facilitators can allow the free manipulation of game elements also but for mechanical or computerized need to be constructed to do so or will actively work against the pattern.
Interface Aspects
Free Game Element Manipulation is more of an interface pattern than a gameplay
Consequences
Free Game Element Manipulation allow players to ignore or modify rules as they please. While this may turn a gaming activity into a playing activity, when used with moderation it can provide players with the power of making Fudged Results and performing Game Element Insertion while still gaming.
Relations
Can Instantiate
Fudged Results, Game Element Insertion
with ...
Can Modulate
Can Be Instantiated By
Can Be Modulated By
Possible Closure Effects
Potentially Conflicting With
History
New pattern created in this wiki.
References
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Acknowledgements
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