What makes a game truly emotional, beyond its narrative moments? In game design, this question is fundamental and has led to theories aimed at understanding what engages players. One key concept is the Four Keys to Fun, developed by game designer Nicole Lazzaro, which explores the primary reasons why we play and find joy in games. This approach isn’t limited to video games but can be also applied to interactive theatre and experiential formats. In our performative role-playing format, Sephirot® PERFORMANCE, we’ve applied these keys to allow the audience not just to watch, but to feel proud of their choices and contributions.

What is Fun in Games?

The Four Keys to Fun describe four main ways players experience enjoyment: Easy Fun, Hard Fun, Serious Fun, and People Fun. These types of fun can coexist within a single game experience or in an interactive show, like Sephirot®, where the audience contributes directly to the story. This concept enables players to explore, overcome challenges, connect with others, and experience profound emotions.

The Four Keys to Fun

Easy Fun – This type of enjoyment is rooted in exploration, discovery, and a sense of wonder. It engages players through visually appealing elements, surprises, and stimulating environments, encouraging them to explore without a specific goal. Examples include exploring new worlds with intriguing characters, enjoying the shuffle of cards, or simply seeing what happens next in the story.

Hard Fun – Emotions from meaningful challenges, strategies, and puzzles. This enjoyment comes from overcoming difficulties and achieving challenging goals. It requires effort, strategy, and skill, rewarding players for their persistence and personal growth. Examples include playing to see how skilled one truly is, aiming to beat the game, or completing multiple objectives.

Serious Fun – Players often report that a major reason they play is the way a game makes them feel inside, or “games as therapy.” This type of fun taps into deep emotions, creating meaning and connection. It’s evident in games that offer touching stories or spark reflection, leaving an impact that goes beyond simple gameplay. Examples include clearing your mind by clearing a level, feeling better about yourself, or simply avoiding boredom.

People Fun – Creating opportunities for player competition, cooperation, performance, and spectacle. It’s the people that are addictive, not the game. This type of fun is rooted in social interaction, bringing players together. Collaboration, competition, and group dynamics generate positive emotions and a sense of belonging, making the experience richer and more engaging. Examples include wanting an excuse to invite friends over, enjoying watching others play, or spending time with friends in a fun way.

Tips for Creating Engaging Experiences

If you want to design an experience similar to Sephirot® or apply the Four Keys to Fun, here are some tips:

• Leave room for exploration: Allowing the audience to move freely and choose their own paths makes the experience more rewarding.
• Encourage meaningful choices: Challenging decisions and significant choices increase personal satisfaction.
• Integrate emotional elements: Touching on emotions makes the experience memorable.
• Encourage collaboration: A positive social environment strengthens enjoyment and connection among participants.

The Four Keys to Fun are essential to understanding how to create game experiences and performances that leave a lasting impact. Sephirot® is a perfect example of how an interactive experience can make the audience feel like protagonists, proud to contribute actively.

 Want to learn more about our interactive experiences or discover how we can help you create a similar format? Get in touch with us here!

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