Mapping Player Motivations on Four Game Quadrants

Quantic Foundry has an interesting survey for those who might like to assess their personal gamer motivation profile as well as compare themselves to the over 220k gamers who've already taken part in the survey. A five minute questionnaire will yield a profile based on four quadrants: Deep Story, Action-Packed Narrative, Immersive Challenge and Open Mayhem. 

Open Mayhem: These games focus on fast-paced mayhem and explosions without a narrative boxing you in. Instead, there’s an emphasis on amassing power (stronger character/gear) and taking on challenging missions and tasks that take time to practice and master.

Action-Packed Narrative: These games feature thrilling action in the form of a structured narrative. While these are Open World games, the core gameplay revolves more around the linear “set pieces” rather than exploring the world.

Deep Story: These games have elaborate narratives and a wide cast of characters with different personalities and interesting backstories you can interact with. The gameplay pacing is slower, and there’s a strong emphasis on character customization, open exploration, and a rich alternate world.

Immersive Challenge: These games also give players a rich alternate world to explore with plenty of customization options, but instead of delving into a deep narrative and character relationships, the core gameplay emphasizes leveling up and accumulating power (think min-maxing) to take on challenging missions and tasks.

It's really a pretty cool thing so head on over to QuanticFoundry.com and give it a go. Leave us your thoughts in the comments!