Game designers and students
Designing a new game concept and need to map out core components systematically.
Use cases
About
The Game mind map template, based on the Game Design Concepts course, breaks down game design into 7 core branches: Mechanics, Dynamics, Aesthetics, Point of view, Player, Game bits, and Narrative. It covers player types (Griefer/Killer, Collector, Achiever, Social) and narrative structures (Linear, Branching, Parallel). This 45-node cheat sheet is ideal for students and designers analyzing game systems. The Point of view branch distinguishes First person, Second person, and Third person (Omniescent, Limited) perspectives. Game bits include Dice (Six sided, Many sided), Cards, Tiles, Tokens, and Spinner. The template provides a structured framework for deconstructing any game's components.
Terms and ConditionsWhen to use this template
Game researchers and critics
Analyzing an existing game to understand its narrative perspectives and player engagement.
Educators and instructors
Teaching a game design class and need a structured visual aid for the MDA framework.
How to use this template
Step 1
Launch and Explore Core Pillars
Open the template in Xmind and expand the seven core branches to understand the foundational mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics of your game design.
Step 2
Customize Design and Narrative Elements
Replace the placeholder nodes with your specific game details by defining player types, narrative structures, and point-of-view perspectives within the structured framework.
Step 3
Finalize and Share Your Framework
Complete your game system analysis and export the final mind map as a high-quality image or PDF to collaborate with your design team.
Frequently asked questions
The template covers 7 major branches: Mechanics, Dynamics, Aesthetics, Point of view, Player, Game bits, and Narrative. It includes player types, narrative structures, game components like Dice and Cards, and perspective options.
Open the .xmind file in Xmind. Explore each branch to map out your game's mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics. Use the Player and Narrative sections to define target audience and story structure.
Yes, the template is fully editable in Xmind. You can add, remove, or modify nodes. Export to PDF or image for printing.
MDA (Mechanics, Dynamics, Aesthetics) is a formal approach to understanding games. Mechanics are the rules, Dynamics are the runtime behavior, and Aesthetics are the emotional responses.
Absolutely. The Player branch includes Type (Griefer/Killer, Collector, Achiever, Social) and Number (Even/Odd). You can rename or add new player categories.
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