How To Teach Video Games To A Non-Gamer

The Game Theorists25 minutes read

The Game Theory host teaches video games, emphasizing the importance of understanding complexity while introducing newcomers to gaming through a 10-step guide based on personal experience. From simple controls in older games to more advanced gameplay in Sonic and Mario, new gamers can build skills gradually and enjoy a rewarding gaming experience.

Insights

  • Starting with touch and motion controls can bridge the gap between real and digital worlds, aiding in the understanding of gaming complexity.
  • Sonic the Hedgehog games provide unique gameplay experiences, such as simultaneous jumping and attacking with one button press, fostering skill-building and confidence in new gamers.

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Recent questions

  • How does Game Theory host teach through video games?

    The Game Theory host has been teaching through video games since 2011, focusing on teaching video games themselves. By analyzing the mechanics, strategies, and design of games, the host educates viewers on various aspects of gaming in an engaging and informative manner.

  • What is the 10-step guide for introducing someone to gaming?

    The 10-step guide for introducing someone to gaming is based on personal experience and includes starting with touch and motion controls to bridge the gap between the real world and the digital world. It progresses to joystick or d-pad controllers to help new gamers understand movement in a virtual space, gradually introducing more complex gameplay mechanics and challenges.

  • How can new gamers build skills without frustration in 2D games?

    New gamers can build skills without frustration in 2D games by starting with a single button for jumping or attacking without a fail state. This approach helps players focus on mastering basic mechanics before progressing to more complex challenges, fostering a sense of accomplishment and skill development.

  • What are the benefits of playing Sonic games for new gamers?

    Playing Sonic games offers new gamers fast-paced gameplay, momentum, and progress, despite the challenge of facing Dr. Robotnik bosses. Sonic's unique abilities, such as jumping and attacking simultaneously with one button press, along with the ring system that provides invincibility, help new gamers navigate challenges and build confidence in their gaming skills.

  • Why are Legend of Zelda and Pokémon recommended for new gamers?

    Legend of Zelda and Pokémon are recommended for new gamers due to their simple controls, rewarding gameplay experiences, and engaging narratives. These games offer a gradual learning curve, allowing players to master basic mechanics before progressing to more complex gameplay elements, making them ideal choices for beginners in the gaming world.

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Summary

00:00

Teaching Gaming Skills Through Video Games

  • Game Theory host has been teaching through video games since 2011, now focusing on teaching video games themselves.
  • Older gamers had simpler controls when starting out, unlike the complexity of modern controllers.
  • Introducing someone to video games involves understanding the complexity even in seemingly simple games like Mario.
  • A 10-step guide is introduced to help introduce someone to the world of gaming, based on personal experience.
  • Starting with touch and motion controls can help bridge the gap between the real world and the digital world.
  • Screen time for young gamers should be limited, with recommendations for educational apps like Con Academy Kids.
  • Progressing to joystick or d-pad controllers can help new gamers understand movement in a virtual space.
  • Introducing a single button for jumping or attacking in a 2D game without a fail state can help build skills without frustration.
  • Moving to a 3D space with one button for movement and no fail state can further enhance gaming skills.
  • Progressing to a 2D game with obstacles and enemies, like Sonic the Hedgehog, can help new gamers navigate challenges in a controlled environment.

12:02

"Sonic's Unique Abilities and Gameplay Advantages"

  • Sonic's unique abilities include jumping and attacking simultaneously with one button press, unlike Mario who needs to land on enemies to defeat them.
  • Sonic's ring system provides ample opportunities for players to collect rings, ensuring they remain invincible as long as they prioritize picking them up.
  • Sonic games offer fast-paced gameplay, fostering momentum and progress for new gamers, despite the challenge of facing Dr. Robotnik bosses.
  • Tails, a character in Sonic games, aids new gamers by being invincible, allowing them to practice against bosses with less frustration and boosting their confidence.
  • The Origins Collection of Sonic games eliminates lives and continues, enabling new gamers to focus on practice and improvement without the fear of progress loss.
  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe introduces accessibility settings like auto-accelerate, allowing new players to focus on steering and strategic gameplay.
  • Legend of Zelda games and Overcooked are recommended for new gamers at the stage of using one button at a time, offering simple controls and rewarding gameplay experiences.
  • Pokémon is suggested as an ideal first RPG for new gamers due to its simple menuing, cute characters, and basic button layout.
  • Super Mario Brothers is recommended for new gamers at the stage of using two buttons simultaneously, requiring advanced dexterity and spatial awareness for precise jumps.
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