Support NeoGAF

[Thick Thighs Save Lives]

Free "interactive study" Interaction Isn't Explicit is now available via the PlayStation Store.

Described as a "short, interactive study" by designer Frank L. Silva, Interaction Isn't Explicit "isn't a traditional game but a debate of different aspects of game design" that aims to explore the "pros and cons" of traditional mechanics and consider which ones are "essential for the language of computer games".

You can see the announcement trailer below, which shows how the interactive piece reflects on the ways we play games, and the visual languages we use to understand them:

"While debating some aspects of game design with some friends, I thought it could be interesting to see if I could put my thoughts into something interactive," Silva explains in the video description. "Figured I might as well publish it, so here's a little trailer for it.

"This isn't a full game, just an interactive essay/study that shouldn't take more than 30 minutes to complete."

Silva stresses that the experience "is a piece designed to provide personal practice material for game design (much like a study composition in music) - NOT a full game" but invites players to "explore a visually stunning world accompanied by a simple but effective third-person shooter combat and magnificent music, composed by FRENCH 79".

PS5 owners can give it a go for yourself right now – just head over to the PS Store to download it. There are even trophies available for those who collect 'em.

"What counts as interaction in video games?" asks new PS5 experience, Interaction Isn't Explicit

Free "interactive study" Interaction Isn't Explicit is now available via the PlayStation Store.Described as a "short, i…

www.eurogamer.net

 

[Punished Miku]

I was just about to say I'll buy this. But its free? I can live with that. Art style is definitely cool.

 

[Thick Thighs Save Lives]

I was just about to say I'll buy this. But its free? I can live with that. Art style is definitely cool.

Yeah, I just finished it. Cool little study/game that explains in a neat way some of the core principles of game design regarding interactivity.

I'll leave this gif here, maybe it will get others to try it.

 

[Thick Thighs Save Lives]

The OST is done by French 79. I think this is one of the tracks that is playing throughout specifics moments of the game.

 

[Trilobit]

The OST is done by French 79. I think this is one of the tracks that is playing throughout specifics moments of the game.

That logo is giving me a weird nostalgia for a time I didn't live in.

---

I'm a sucker for experimental itch.io style games. Some of the best gaming experiences I've had have been with these kinds of short games. Going to check it out tomorrow!

 

[Barakov]

Looks tight. And for free as well.

Yeah, I just finished it. Cool little study/game that explains in a neat way some of the core principles of game design regarding interactivity.

I'll leave this gif here, maybe it will get others to try it.

Except for that part.

 

[Grildon Tundy]

Thanks for the heads up, OP Thick. Had no idea this existed.

 

[Topher]

Why did that "interaction isn't explicit" thread title have me thinking this was a Victor Omega thread?

 

[Punished Miku]

Why did that thread title have me thinking this was a Victor Omega thread?

I dont see it. The vertical line implies effort and sophistication.

 

[Victor Omega]

Why did that "interaction isn't explicit" thread title have me thinking this was a Victor Omega thread?

I dont see it. The vertical line implies effort and sophistication.