Ludology

Ludology is the study of games and gameplay, focusing on the mechanics and rules that make games unique. Unlike traditional forms of narrative analysis, which emphasize storytelling and character development, ludology prioritizes the player's experience and how game mechanics influence behavior and decision-making. This field examines how games create meaning through interaction, strategy, and competition, allowing researchers to understand what makes games engaging and enjoyable. In essence, ludology seeks to analyze games as distinct entities with their own systems, rather than merely as vehicles for stories.