Design Aspects of Scoring Systems in Game

Scoring systems are a key component of game mechanics, and provide a mechanism whereby players are rewarded with point value whenever they accomplish a task in the game. The growing complexity of scoring systems underlines the importance of determining the degree to which the design of a scoring system affects player satisfaction. However, this requires a comprehensive understanding of the functions and design aspects of scoring systems. This study interviewed experts in the field of gaming to identify the 20 most important functions of scoring systems with the aim of elucidating current trends. The researchers then conducted a questionnaire survey among game designers and avid game players to evaluate each of the 20 functions in 12 representative games. Finally, multidimensional scaling (MDS) was employed to identify the main dimensions associated with the design of scoring systems. Our results indicate that perceivability, controllability, and relation to achievement are the primary aspects of design in the scoring systems commonly found in games.