Today, we’re going to talk about a new game design technique. I call it the Thornbush Weakness, which is Game Design Technique #125. It’s a somewhat complex concept. The definition of a Thornbush Weakness is: “Positioning a weakness that can become a strength.” First, let me tell you a little allegory I heard when I … The post Thornbush Weakness (GT #125) first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

I was curious about if being polite to an AI actually yields better, or at least different, answers. I made an experiment below. What do you think? Experiment #1 Version 1: UserFor this valentines day, what is something sweet I could do for my wife Angel? Can you include a romantic poem that goes alongside … The post Does being polite to ChatGPT AI yield batter answers? first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

(This blogpost has been updated 13 years after the original posting to become part of the manuscript of my 2nd book, “10,000 Hours of Play.” If you like this post, you’ll love my book.) Myles Bennett Dyson is my Hero One of my own fictional Role Models is from the popular classic movie *Terminator 2*. … The post Why Miles Dyson from Terminator 2 is my Role Model first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

Now that we have determined the Game we are playing, what our Stats and Roles are, and the Skills we have and need to acquire, it’s time to look for Allies. Allies are generally people who are playing the same Life Game as you are (similar passion or goals), but have complementary Roles and Skills … The post 10K HP Step 5: Build Your Alliance (Network) first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

In the realm of game design, understanding how to engage players is key to creating memorable experiences. In this article post, we’re going to explore two distinct game design techniques (GT): the “Plant Picker (GT #11)” and the “Poison Picker (GT #89).” Both these techniques are part of Core Drive 3: Empowerment of Creativity and … The post Exploring the Art of Choice in Game Design Technique: Plant Picker vs. Poison Picker first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

How to develop Vision I’ve been working on my 2nd book, 10,000 Hours of Play, and part of the Six Steps 10K HP Journey is to develop Skills based on our Attributes. One important Skill (Step 4) to acquire is Leadership. However, Leadership does not stand by itself, it is built upon three important Attributes … The post Real Life Game Skill: How to Develop Vision first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

In the ever-evolving realm of gamification and Octalysis design, there exists a myriad of Gamification Design Techniques that captivate and engage players. Today, let’s cover the “Aura Effect.” This technique, while seemingly simple, has profound implications not only in the gaming world but also in the broader spectrum of business and social dynamics. Understanding the … The post The Aura Effect in Gamification Design (Game Technique #9) first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

Avatar Designs (Game Design Technique #13) In recent decades, technological advancements have given rise to innovative Game Design Techniques, one of which is the increasingly popular Avatar concept. Despite its straightforward nature and widespread adoption, the avatar holds immense dynamism, reshaping the landscape of gamified design and infusing playful elements into digital platforms. This essay … The post The Avatar: Gamification Design Technique first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

Pet Companion Design (Game Technique #135) In the vast universe of game design, there’s a myriad of techniques employed to amplify user engagement and immersive experiences. Among these, one stands out for its unique charm: the “Pet Companion” Game Design Technique #135. This concept may remind some of the Avatar Design, a foundational game design … The post The Pet Companion Design in Gamification first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more

Increase your chances of getting the job you want through the Octalysis Framework and an understanding of the 8 Core Drives. When you enter the building, the interview has begun. Everything from your interaction with the receptionist through to all personal interactions. Confidence = EVERYTHING – 1 Someone is meeting you for the first time. … The post How to be OP in an Interview (Part 1/2) first appeared on Yu-kai Chou ..read more