Choose two digital games that you are very familiar with to do this assignment. For each of your chosen games: Choose one specific gameplay system within the game. Write out how you think the system works, including what forms of data are being stored in the background, and what data the system sends to or receives from other systems. Include any means by which the system communicates or displays information to the player.

QUESTION

Choose two digital games that you are very familiar with to do this assignment.

For each of your chosen games:

Choose one specific gameplay system within the game.

Write out how you think the system works, including what forms of data are being stored in the background, and what data the system sends to or receives from other systems.

Include any means by which the system communicates or displays information to the player.

Be clear about if and how the player can interact with the system directly.

I expect between 300 to 500 words on each game system.

ANSWER

Exploring Gameplay Systems: Smithing in Skyrim and Ultimate Abilities in Overwatch

Introduction

In this essay, we delve into the intricacies of two popular digital games: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Overwatch. Specifically, we focus on the Smithing system in Skyrim and the Ultimate Ability system in Overwatch. By examining how these gameplay systems work, including data storage, interaction with other systems, and communication with players, we gain valuable insights into the immersive experiences these games offer.

Game 1: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Smithing System

The Smithing system in Skyrim serves as a fundamental mechanic for players seeking to customize their gear and enhance their combat effectiveness. It operates by utilizing item attributes and player skills, which are crucial data components stored in the game’s database (Skyrim:Smithing – the Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages (UESP), n.d.).

When players interact with a blacksmith’s forge, the Smithing system sends a request to the database, retrieving essential data such as available recipes, required materials, and the player’s skill level (Jezartroz, 2023). Visual feedback is provided through a crafting menu, showcasing available recipes, required materials, and the progress of crafting or improving items.

Direct player interaction is a vital aspect of the Smithing system. Players can select recipes, choose materials, and use tools like grindstones or workbenches to enhance item attributes. The system responds to player inputs, updating the item’s stats accordingly. Additionally, the Smithing system interacts with the inventory system, deducting required materials and considering the player’s Smithing skill level.

Game 2: Overwatch – Ultimate Ability System

The Ultimate Ability system in Overwatch grants each hero a powerful and game-changing ability. It relies on a range of data, including player actions, hero-specific mechanics, and game events (“Modes of Esports Engagement in Overwatch,” 2022). As players engage in actions such as dealing damage, healing teammates, or capturing objectives, they generate ultimate charge. This charge is stored for each player and hero in the game’s data.

To communicate the charging status of ultimate abilities to players, Overwatch employs visual indicators. The player’s character portrait features a progress bar or icon, providing immediate feedback on the ultimate charge. This visual representation allows players to make informed decisions during gameplay.

Interacting directly with the Ultimate Ability system is a key aspect of Overwatch. Players must strategically time their actions and utilize hero-specific mechanics to maximize charge generation. The system’s integration with other game systems, such as balancing charge rates among heroes, ensures fairness and diversity.

Conclusion

The Smithing system in Skyrim and the Ultimate Ability system in Overwatch demonstrate the complexity and depth of gameplay systems within digital games. By understanding the underlying data storage, interaction with other systems, and communication with players, we gain a deeper appreciation for the immersive experiences offered by these games. Whether crafting powerful gear or unleashing game-changing abilities, these systems enhance gameplay and provide players with a sense of customization and strategic decision-making.

References

Jezartroz. (2023). Wowhead. Wowhead. https://www.wowhead.com/guide/professions/blacksmithing/overview-dragonflight 

Modes of Esports Engagement in Overwatch. (2022). In Springer eBooks. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-82767-0 

Skyrim:Smithing – The Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages (UESP). (n.d.). https://en.uesp.net/wiki/Skyrim:Smithing