" Best Game Design Books You Should Read "

Best Game Design Books

Introduction:

Game design is a complex process, and most newcomers find it hard to create engaging and fun games. It does not require programming, artistic skills, just pure creativity.

There are books called “game design books” which cover every game design principle and rules in detail.

If you learned and managed to implement these game principles, I guarantee you, you will create fun gameplay with unforgettable player experiences.

I have done research for a week, and have found the 20 best game design books for you.

What is Game Design ?

The game design is a process which describes the rules, mechanics and overall gameplay. It is one of the most important parts of game development.

A game designer takes all the decisions of the game, how it's going to look like, how it will feel. It all depends on him.

Game design is a tough process, so big studios have multiple designers working together to make awesome games that hold players' attention.

A game design is the first phase of the game development where important decisions are made. Such as concept, story, gameplay mechanics, level design, characters, UI, art and sounds and many more.

What Are Game Design Books ?

Every subject has books, and game design is an important subject in game development. So there are uncountable and best game design books for beginners out there. If you want to know deeply about design principles and rules, you should have these books on your shelf.

Most of the books I have mentioned in this article are free, even you can find best books on game design  pdf online. Some of them are paid and easily available on amazon. I will also provide the link with each game design book.

How Helpful Game Design Books Are?

To be honest, books are very valuable and found to be informative. These development books are written by seniors and expert game designers working in high positions having years of experience.

These books will definitely help you in designing the game from mechanics to implementing story into the game. These great video game design books provide proper guidance on how to be creative, how to make your game fun and how to come up with unique ideas.

Best Books About Game Design:

There are thousands of books available for you to read and learn game design. But it is not possible to read all the books. So I have found the top 20 best game design books and also divided them into subcategories like programming, storytelling, mechanics, and creativity.

I know that you are not going to read all 20 books, but I want you to read at least one book from each category. And if you cannot do that, You may leave here.

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Types:

Game Design Books On Programming:

Best Game Design Books

1. Level Up The Guide To Great Video Game Design:

Introduction:

This book is written by Scott Rogers. This book is a detail guide for both beginners and intermediate games desginers. It mainly covers the programming aspects of game design.

Key Features:
  • The book gives you advice on brainstorming and coming up with ideas
  • It also highlights the importance of prototyping.
  • Important level design tips.
  • Advanced programming tips to enhance performance.
Price: Amazon 20 $

Rating: 4.1

Release date: October 18, 2010

Famous Quote:
"Your game should be a series of interesting decisions." - Scott Rogers

Best Game Design Books

2. Challengers for game designers:

Introduction:

Brenda Romero, famous book ”Challenger for game designer”, discusses the challenges faced during the game development process, especially in programming. This book provides detailed solutions to advanced analytical problems.

Key Features:
  • It prioritizes ideas which are creative and feasible within your development process.
  • Emphasizes the importance of playtesting based on player feedback.
  • Tips on designing levels that serve a wide range of player skills.
Price: Amazon 25 $

Rating: 4.6

Release date: December 16, 2011.

Famous Quote:

"Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works." - Brenda Romero

Best Game Design Books

3. Game Programming Patterns:

Introduction:

Game Programming Pattern is written by Robrt Nystrom. It is one of the best game design books for developers looking to improve their programming skills, and design maintainable and scalable systems. These books provide common programming problem and solutions.

Key Features:
  • Detailed exploration of various design patterns relevant to game development.
  • Practical examples and case studies from actual game projects.
  • Nystrom's writing style is clear, engaging, and easy to follow.
  • Emphasizes writing code that is maintainable and scalable.
  • Includes diagrams and illustrations to clarify complex concepts.

Price: Amazon 29 $

Rating: 4.7

Release date: November 2, 2014

Famous Quote:

"The code you write makes your world real, and if you want that world to be vivid and alive, you need the right patterns in your toolbox." - Robert Nystrom

Game Design Books On  Story telling:

Best Game Design Books

4. Video Game Storytelling:

Introduction:

If you want to master the art of storytelling in video games, then this book named “Video game Storytelling” by Evan is one of the best game design books for you. This book tells about the principles and techniques to make a interesting narrative that engages players.

Key Features:
  • Covers a wide range of storytelling techniques tailored for video games.
  • Offers actionable tips and strategies that can be applied directly to game development projects.
  • Provides real-world examples and case studies from successful video games.
  • Discusses how to balance narrative elements with gameplay mechanics

Price: Amazon 15 $

Rating: 4.3

Release date: November 4, 2014.

Famous Quote:

"Story is the driving force that can turn a good game into a great one." - Evan Skolnick

Best Game Design Books

5. The Design Of Everyday Things:

Introduction:

The design of everyday things by Don Norman is focused on how everyday life objects interact. The book explores the physiology behind how people interact with objects in games.

Key Features:
  • Emphasizes the importance of designing with the user in mind.
  • Explores how human cognition affects the way people interact with objects.
  • Provides numerous examples of good and bad design from everyday life.
  • Focuses on techniques to increase player immersion and emotional investment.
Famous Quote:

"It's not your fault. If a person is having trouble using something, it's not their fault; it's the fault of the design." - Don Norman

Price: Amazon 15 $

Rating: 4.3

Release date: November 4, 2014.

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Game Design Books On  Mechanics:

best books game design

6. Game Mechanics Advanced Game Design:

Introduction:

This game design book is also written by Ernest Adam which is focused on game mechanics and their implementation. The book offers deep and advanced techniques to improve the player experience.

Key Features:
  • Provides a thorough examination of various game mechanics and their functions.
  • Offers practical advice and methods for implementing and refining game mechanics.
  • Explores the creation of dynamic systems that lead to emergent gameplay.
  • Detailed guidance on balancing and tuning game mechanics for optimal performance.

Price: Amazon 13 $

Rating: 4.2

Release date: November 14, 1988

Famous Quote:

"A game is a series of interesting choices." - Ernest Adams

best books game design

7. Designing Games A Guide To Engineering Experiences:

Introduction:

"Designing Games: A Guide to Engineering Experiences" by Tynan Sylvester is a detailed book for game developers focused on creating engaging player experiences. The book highlights engineering and creativity, providing a detailed guide on how to design games that hook and engage the players throughout the game.

Key Features:
  • Covers a wide range of topics, from basic principles to advanced design strategies.
  • Provides actionable tips and techniques for designing better games.
  • Includes examples and case studies from successful games.
  • Discusses the balance between creative vision and technical constraints.
Price: Amazon 19 $

Rating: 3.8

Release date: January 4, 2018.

Famous Quote:

"Game design is not just about the mechanics; it's about the player's journey and the experiences they have along the way." - Tynan Sylvester

best books game design

8. 100 Principles Of Game Design:

Introduction:

"100 Principles of Game Design" is written by a famous level designer” Wendy Despain”. The book is a detailed guide that contains 100 fundamental principles of game design. This book offers clear, concise, and actionable advice on various aspects of game design from player psychology and engagement to mechanics, and storytelling.

Key Features:
  • Covers a broad spectrum of game design concepts and techniques.
  • Provides practical and easily implementable advice.
  • Written in an easy-to-read and accessible format.
  • Includes numerous examples from successful games.
Price: Amazon 29 $

Rating: 4.3

Release date:March 15, 2013.

Famous Quote:

"Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.", Wendy despain.

best books game design

9. Designing Virtual Worlds:

Introduction:

"Designing Virtual Worlds" is written by Richard Bartle. This game design book is a basic text in game design and development. Richard Bartle, one of the co-creators of the first MUD (Multi-User Dungeon), shares his experience in creating engaging and immersive virtual environments.

Key Features:
  • Provides an extensive examination of the principles and practices involved in designing worlds.
  • Offers historical context and theoretical foundations of virtual world design.
  • Includes practical advice and methodologies for designing and developing virtual worlds.
  • Explores the psychological aspects of player behavior and interaction within virtual worlds.
  • Discusses the ethical and social implications of virtual world design.

Price: Amazon 30 $

Rating: 4.3

Release date: March 15, 2013.

Famous Quote:

"The ultimate goal of a virtual world is to create a place where players feel at home." - Richard A. Bartle

best books game design

10. The Ultimate Guide To Video Game Design And Writing:

Introduction:

"The Ultimate Guide to Video Game Design and Writing" is a major resource for beginner game designers and writers who want to master the art of creating engaging video games. it offers practical advice, industry insights, and step-by-step guides to help readers develop their skills.

Key Features:
  • Covers all aspects of video game design and writing, from concept to execution.
  • Offers actionable tips and strategies for both design and writing.
  • Includes insights and case studies from successful game designers and writers.
  • Features detailed guides and exercises to help readers practice and refine their skills.
Price: Amazon 15 $

Rating: 4.3

Release date: November 4, 2014.

Famous Quote:

"Great games are not just about mechanics or story, but the perfect marriage of both." - Author of the book

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best books on game design

11. The Gamification Of Learning And Instruction:

Introduction:

"The Gamification of Learning and Instruction: Game-based Methods and Strategies for Training and Education" by Karl M. Kapp is a book that explores the application of game design principles and rules to educational and training contexts. This book provides guidance on how gamification can improve learning outcomes by increasing engagement, motivation, and retention.

Key Features:
  • Offers a detailed exploration of gamification concepts and their application in education.
  • Backed by research and case studies that illustrate the effectiveness of gamification.
  • Provides practical advice and strategies for incorporating gamification into instructional design
  • Emphasizes the importance of engaging learners through interactive and enjoyable experiences.

Price: Amazon 39$

Rating: 4.2

Release date: March 19, 2012

Famous Quote:

"Gamification is not about turning work into a game. It's about finding the fun in the work we have to do." - Karl M. Kapp


best books on game design

12. Think Like A Game Designer:

Introduction:

"Think Like a Game Designer: The Step-by-Step Guide to Unlocking Your Creative Potential" is written by Justin Gary. This book aims to help aspiring game designers develop their creative skills and think strategically about game design.

Key Features:
  • Provides a clear, step-by-step framework for designing games.
  • Focuses on unlocking and nurturing your creative potential.
  • Offers actionable tips and strategies for various stages of game development.
  • Includes real-world examples and insights from the author's experience.


Price: Amazon 14$

Rating: 4.4

Release date: November 15, 2018

Famous Quote:

"Great games are born from the heart and the mind working together in harmony." - Justin Gary

Game Design Books On  Creativity:

best books on game design

13. The Art Of Game Design:

Introduction:

"The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell is a comprehensive guide to the principles and practices of game design. Schell, a renowned game designer and educator, introduces a unique perspective on game design through a series of "lenses," which are different ways of viewing the elements of a game. This approach helps designers think creatively about their work.

Key Features:
  • Covers a wide range of topics, from basic design principles to advanced techniques.
  • Introduces 100 different lenses to view and evaluate game design elements.
  • Offers actionable tips and methods for improving game design
  • Written in an engaging, clear, and easy-to-understand manner.

Price: Amazon 45 $

Rating: 4.6

Release date: August 4, 2008

Famous Quote:

"Every game is a series of interesting choices." - Jesse Schell

best books on game design

14. Game Design Workshop:

Introduction:

"Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to Creating Innovative Games" by Tracy Fullerton is a detailed guidance on the art and science of game design. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of game design to more advanced concepts.

Key Features:
  • Emphasizes the importance of prototyping and playtesting throughout the design process.
  • Covers a wide range of topics including game mechanics, storytelling, and player psychology.
  • Includes numerous exercises and assignments to apply the concepts discussed.
  • Features case studies and examples from successful games and well-known designers.

Price: Amazon 39 $

Rating: 4.4

Release date: March 10, 2010

Famous Quote:

"Games are the most elevated form of investigation." - Tracy Fullerton


best books on game design

15. A Theory Of Fun For Game Design:

Introduction:

"A Theory of Fun for Game Design" by Raph Koster is a game design book that explores the concept of "fun" in games and how it can be designed and understood. Koster, an experienced game designer, tells about psychological aspects of what makes games enjoyable.

Key Features:
  • Explains the concept of fun from a cognitive and psychological perspective.
  • Written in an engaging, conversational style with illustrations.
  • Provides numerous examples from various games to illustrate key points.
  • Discusses how learning and pattern recognition contribute to the enjoyment of games.

Price: Amazon 25 $

Rating: 4.4

Release date: November 8, 2013

Famous Quote:

"Fun is just another word for learning." - Raph Koster


best books about game design

16. Rules of Play:

Introduction:

"Rules of Play: Game Design Fundamentals" by Katie Salen and Eric Zimmerman is a foundational book. This book explores the theoretical and practical aspects of game design, offering a deep dive into the principles and concepts that leads to the creation of engaging and meaningful games.

Key Features:
  • Offers an in-depth exploration of game design principles and concepts.
  • Integrates insights from various fields, enriching the understanding of game design.
  • Provides practical frameworks and models that can be applied to game design projects.
  • Includes numerous case studies and examples from a wide range of games.

Price: Amazon 45 $

Rating: 4.3

Release date: October 1, 2003.

Famous Quote:

"To design a game is to create an experience that can be shared." - Katie Salen and Eric Zimmerman


best books about game design

17. Game Feel A Game Designer Guide To Introduction Visual Sensation:

Introduction:

"Game Feel: A Game Designer's Guide to Visual Sensation" by Steve Swink is a deep exploration on different aspects of game design. Often referred to as "juice" or "game feel," this concept covers the physical sensations and emotional responses that players experience when interacting with a game.

Key Features:

  • Thoroughly examines the components that contribute to the tactile sensation of games.
  • Offers actionable insights and techniques for improving game feel.
  • Focuses on the importance of visual and tactile feedback in gameplay.
  • Includes numerous examples and case studies from successful games.
Price: Amazon 34 $

Rating: 4.2

Release date: September 19, 2008.

Famous Quote:

"The essence of the game feels in the response; it's in the way the game communicates its physicality to the player." - Steve Swink


best board game design books

18. Fundamentals of Game Design:

Introduction:

"Fundamentals of Game Design" by Ernest Adams is a game design book that covers important principles and practices in game design. This book is for both aspiring game designers and professionals, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the core concepts and methodologies necessary for creating compelling and successful games.

Key Features:

  • Covers all aspects of game design, from concept development to final implementation
  • Offers practical tips and techniques for designing engaging gameplay experiences.
  • Includes case studies from popular games to illustrate key design principles.
  • Written in a clear and engaging style, making complex concepts understandable.

Price: Amazon 39 $

Rating: 4.4

Release date: September 23, 2009.

Famous Quote:

"Designing a game is like designing any other complex system: it's a matter of trade-offs." - Ernest Adams


best board game design books

19. Blood, Sweat and Pixel, How Video Games Are Made:

Introduction:

"Blood, Sweat, and Pixels: How Video Games Are Made" written by Jason Schreier discusses the challenging world of video game development. Schreier takes readers behind the scenes of some of the most iconic and troubled games of recent years .

Key Features:
  • Provides a behind-the-scenes look at the development of several notable video games.
  • Covers a diverse range of games across different genres and platforms.
  • Written by Jason Schreier, a well-respected journalist in the gaming industry.
  • Schreier's writing is engaging, informative, and accessible.

Price: Amazon 13 $

Rating: 4.6

Release date: September 5, 2017.

Famous Quote:

"Game development isn't just hard, it's grueling, and at its worst it can drive people mad." - Jason Schreier


best board game design books

20. The Gamers Brain (UX):

Introduction:

"Game Mechanics: Advanced Game Design" by Ernest Adams and Joris Dormans is a complete guide focused on the small details of game mechanics and their implementation.

Key Features:
  • Provides a thorough examination of various game mechanics and their functions.
  • Offers practical advice and methods for implementing and refining game mechanics.
  • Explores the creation of dynamic systems that lead to emergent gameplay.
  • Detailed guidance on balancing and tuning game mechanics for optimal performance.

Price: Amazon 39 $

Rating: 4.6

Release date: September 23, 2009.

Famous Quote:

"A game is a series of interesting choices." - Ernest Adams

Conclusion:

In short, these best game design books will help you tremendously on building your core game design skills. These principles and rules mentioned in these books are fundamentals and basics of game development.

If you learn and masters all these basics, you will definitely create good and best selling games. I hope you find this article helpful, and if so, subscribe to our blog.

Thanks for reading, for more information on game design, visit our blog.

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If you want to learn more about game design books, watch this video



FAQs:

What are some of the best game design books?

Some of the best game design books include:

"The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell

"Rules of Play: Game Design Fundamentals" by Katie Salen and Eric Zimmerman

"A Theory of Fun for Game Design" by Raph Koster

"Game Design Workshop" by Tracy Fullerton

"Game Feel: A Game Designer's Guide to Visual Sensation" by Steve Swink

Which game design books are best for beginners?

Beginners in game design might find these books helpful:

"Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design" by Scott Rogers

"Think Like a Game Designer" by Justin Gary

"Fundamentals of Game Design" by Ernest Adams

"The Gamer's Brain: How Neuroscience and UX Can Impact Video Game Design" by Celia Hodent

"Challengers for Game Designers" by Brenda Brathwaite and Ian Schreiber

Where can I find game design books recommended by the gaming community?

You can find game design book recommendations from the gaming community on:

  • Reddit (e.g., r/gamedesign)
  • Goodreads
  • Game design forums and communitie
  • Amazon reviews and best-seller lists
  • Industry blogs and websites such as Gamasutra

Are there any free resources or PDFs for game design books?

Free resources or PDFs for game design books can be found on:

  • Online libraries and archives (e.g., Project Gutenberg, Internet Archive)
  • University course materials and open courseware
  • Game design websites and blogs that offer free eBooks
  • Some authors' websites may offer free chapters or excerpts

What is the difference between game design and game development books?

Game design books focus on the principles, theories, and methodologies of designing games, including mechanics, storytelling, user experience, and player psychology.

Game development books cover the technical aspects of creating games, including programming, software tools, project management, and the production process.

Where can I find game design books to read online?

You can read game design books online at:
  • Digital libraries such as Google Books
  • Subscription services like Scribd and Kindle Unlimited
  • University and public library eBook collections
  • Online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble

What is the best way to start learning game design?

The best way to start learning game design includes:

  • Reading foundational game design books
  • Taking online courses or enrolling in a game design program
  • Participating in game jams and hackathons
  • Joining game design communities and forums
  • Practicing by designing and creating small games
  • Seeking feedback and iterating on your designs

Hi ! I'm Maaz Ayub , a technology and gaming content writ over 2+ year of professional experience in content writing