The Pyramid of Game Design

Game design is changing. The emergence of service games on PC, mobile and console has created new expectations amongst consumers and requires new techniques from game makers.

In The Pyramid of Game Design, Nicholas Lovell identifies and explains the frameworks and techniques you need to deliver fun, profitable games. Using examples of games ranging from modern free-to-play titles to the earliest arcade games, via PC strategy and traditional boxed titles, Lovell shows how game development has evolved, and provides game makers with the tools to evolve with it.

Harness the Base, Retention and Superfan Layers to create a powerful Core Loop.

Design the player Session to keep players playing while being respectful of their time.

Accept that there are few fixed rules: just trade-offs with consequences.

Adopt Agile and Lean techniques to "learn what you need you learn" quickly

Use analytics, paired with design skills and player feedback, to improve the fun, engagement and profitability of your games.

Adapt your marketing techniques to the reality of the service game era

Consider the ethics of game design in a rapidly changing world.


Lovell shows how service games require all the skills of product game development, and more. He provides a toolset for game makers of all varieties to create fun, profitable games. Filled with practical advice, memorable anecdotes and a wealth of game knowledge, the Pyramid of Game Design is a must-read for all game developers.


Key Features
Harness the Base, Retention and Superfan Layers to create a powerful Core Loop.
Design the player Session to keep players playing while being respectful of their time.

Accept that there are few fixed rules: just trade-offs with consequences.

Adopt Agile and Lean techniques to "learn what you need you learn" quickly.

Use analytics, paired with design skills and player feedback, to improve the fun, engagement and profitability of your games.

Adapt your marketing techniques to the reality of the service game era.

Consider the ethics of game design in a rapidly changing world.