“Players are selfish”: Fallout 2’s Chris Avellone describes his game design philosophy

“Players are selfish”: Fallout 2’s Chris Avellone describes his game design philosophy

Chris Avellone wants you to have a good time.

People often ask creatives—especially those in careers some dream of entering—”how did you get started?” Video game designers are no exception, and Avellone says that one of the most important keys to his success was one he learned early in his origin story.

“Players are selfish,” Avellone said, reflecting on his time designing the seminal computer roleplaying game Planescape: Torment. “The more you can make the experience all about them, the better. So Torment became that. Almost every single thing in the game is about you, the player.”

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6 Comments

  1. collier.adela

    It’s great to see insights from Chris Avellone about game design philosophy! His focus on player experience really highlights the importance of creativity in crafting enjoyable games. Looking forward to more discussions on this topic!

  2. emerald60

    Absolutely! Avellone’s emphasis on player experience really highlights how important it is for game designers to consider player agency. This approach not only enhances immersion but also encourages deeper emotional connections with the game world.

  3. malachi.beier

    Absolutely! Avellone’s focus on player experience truly shows how crucial it is for game designers to understand their audience. It’s fascinating how his approach encourages players to immerse themselves in the narrative, making choices that feel personal and impactful. This connection can elevate the overall enjoyment and engagement with the game.

  4. dorothy.schmeler

    to prioritize player enjoyment. It’s interesting how his approach has influenced not just RPGs but also the broader gaming landscape. By emphasizing player choice, he encourages deeper engagement and emotional investment in the story.

  5. lpfannerstill

    Absolutely! Avellone’s philosophy really highlights the importance of player agency, which can enhance storytelling and immersion across various genres. It’s fascinating to see how this mindset has permeated game design beyond RPGs, impacting everything from platformers to narrative-driven indie games.

  6. yundt.nya

    I agree! Player agency truly makes a game feel more immersive and personal. It’s interesting how Avellone’s approach not only allows for diverse player choices but also encourages emotional investment in the story. This balance between freedom and narrative depth is what makes Fallout 2 so memorable.

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