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Reading list
We've selected 21 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
RPG Development.
Is widely considered a fundamental text in game design, offering a comprehensive framework through the concept of 'lenses' to analyze and improve games. It's an excellent starting point for gaining a broad understanding of RPG development, covering core principles applicable to various game genres, including RPGs. It's frequently used as a textbook in academic settings and is valuable as both a primary learning resource and a reference.
Specifically targeting interactive narratives in games, including RPGs, this book offers proven writing techniques. It's highly relevant for those focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of storytelling in an interactive medium. It provides practical guidance and case studies.
Narrative cornerstone of many RPGs. provides a focused look at storytelling specifically for video games, covering techniques relevant to creating compelling plots, characters, and worldbuilding in RPGs. It's a practical guide for writers and designers focusing on the narrative aspects.
While focused on programming, this book is essential for those looking to deepen their understanding of the technical aspects of game development, including the implementation of common patterns used in RPGs. It's a highly practical resource for programmers and technical designers involved in RPG development.
Delves into the design structures behind successful games and focuses on creating emotionally resonant experiences. It provides insights into player psychology and how to craft mechanics and narratives that deeply engage players, which is particularly relevant for the immersive nature of RPGs.
Explores the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and game design, offering insights into how players' brains work and how this knowledge can inform design decisions. It's highly relevant for creating engaging and intuitive RPG experiences by understanding player cognition and behavior.
Focuses specifically on the writing and design aspects of video games, offering practical advice and techniques. It's particularly useful for those interested in the narrative, dialogue, and quest design elements crucial to many RPGs. It provides a solid foundation for aspiring game writers and designers.
Emphasizes a playcentric approach to game design, guiding readers through the process of creating and testing game mechanics. It's highly relevant for understanding how to design engaging systems for RPGs and is often used in educational settings. It's a valuable resource for hands-on learning and deepening design skills.
Written by a co-creator of the first MUD (a precursor to modern MMORPGs), this book classic text on the design of virtual worlds. It's highly relevant for understanding the principles behind creating large, persistent online environments characteristic of many RPGs, particularly in terms of player interaction and social dynamics.
Offers a deep dive into game design through the lens of systems thinking. It's suitable for those with some foundational knowledge looking to deepen their understanding of complex game mechanics and player interactions within RPG systems. It's a more advanced text often used in graduate programs or by experienced designers.
Explores the fundamental nature of fun and how it relates to learning and game design. It provides valuable insights into player psychology and motivation, which are crucial for creating engaging RPG experiences. It's accessible and thought-provoking, making it suitable for a broad audience and a good starting point for understanding the player-centric aspects of RPG development.
Artificial intelligence key component in creating believable and challenging enemies and NPCs in RPGs. provides a comprehensive introduction to AI techniques used in games. It's a technical resource valuable for programmers and designers working on the behavioral aspects of RPGs.
Offers a practical, hands-on approach to game development using Unity, a popular engine for creating RPGs. It covers the entire process from concept to playable game, including design theory and programming. It's an excellent resource for beginners looking to gain practical skills in RPG development.
Focuses on the often-overlooked aspect of 'game feel,' the tactile and sensory experience of playing a game. It's highly relevant for making RPGs feel responsive and engaging to play. While not specific to RPGs, the principles discussed are universally applicable and crucial for creating polished and enjoyable game experiences.
A practical and accessible guide to video game design, covering a wide range of topics from concept to production. It offers actionable advice and examples, making it particularly useful for those new to game development or looking for a solid overview of the process as it applies to various genres, including elements relevant to RPGs.
Provides a theoretical framework for understanding games by examining their fundamental characteristics. It helps in analyzing what constitutes a game and how different elements contribute to the overall experience, offering a deeper academic perspective relevant to the core design principles of RPGs.
An anthology of key writings on game design, this book provides a broader historical and theoretical context for the field. It includes influential essays and articles that have shaped game design thinking, offering valuable background and deeper insights relevant to the evolution and theory behind RPGs.
For those interested in the underlying technology of RPGs, this book provides a comprehensive look at game engine architecture. It's a highly technical book suitable for programmers and technical directors, offering in-depth knowledge of the systems that power complex RPGs.
While not directly about game development, Campbell's work on the monomyth and hero's journey is foundational to understanding narrative structures common in many RPGs. provides deep insights into archetypes and storytelling patterns that can be applied to creating compelling quests and character arcs in RPGs. It's valuable for narrative designers.
Provides a journalistic look at the development of various video games, including some with RPG elements. While not a how-to guide, it offers valuable real-world context and insights into the challenges and realities of game production. It's excellent supplementary reading for understanding the industry surrounding RPG development.
While not directly about game development, this book provides valuable insights from neuroscience on how people learn and stay motivated. Understanding these principles can significantly inform the design of tutorials, progression systems, and overall player engagement in RPGs. It's a valuable supplementary read for designers.
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