It's not about winning, but about creating experiences": Adam Davis Fernsby's view on gaming

It has often been said that behind every great game is an equally prolific storyteller. This is the mentality that Adam Davis Fernsby has embraced since his days at the University of London obtaining a degree in game design. We asked him to elaborate on this concept, and he was kind enough to speak with us in detail. Let's see what he had to say.

Why do you feel that winning isn't as important as the experience itself?

"Winning is nothing more than a moment in time. I believe that creating a memorable experience is what truly attracts a player to any game."

Do you believe that winning might actually detract from the overall enjoyment?

"At times, yes. Those who are solely focused on taking pole position often miss out on the 'big picture'. This can definitely affect how the game itself is perceived."

Might this be a cultural trait?

"Winning and losing have both become pervasive concepts throughout western culture. So, I don't think that it's unreasonable to say that these traits have come to define the modern gaming experience. "

So, are you saying that winning isn't as important as the act of playing?

"Not in so many words. What I'm instead postulating is that winning is transient. Players able to look back at how the game unfolded, and what they were feeling, are much more likely to create lasting memories."

Would you say that living in the moment is the best way to enjoy modern games?

"That's actually a great way of putting it. Whether one wins or loses, it's the experience that ultimately counts. This is also why storytelling has become so important."

You have mentioned the concept of narratives before. Can you shed additional light on this subject?

"Much of the research I've carried out involves how storytelling will have an impact on the players. Becoming immersed within a game tends to be much more rewarding than simply claiming victory."

OK. So, how can developers create this type of immersion?

"It begins by fostering a rich narrative, and providing players with a means to become seamlessly integrated within the storyline. If not, they may begin to feel as if they are observers."

In other words, you're stressing the role of active participation?

"Absolutely. Why take part in any game if you feel as if you're viewing the events from the outside? I strongly believe that immersion is the key to the long-term success of any title."

Can you offer an example of a game that focuses more on the experience than the victory?

"I'd be happy to. A board game set within dream-like settings known as Dixit is primarily concerned with individual creativity, and following an ever-expanding storyline. In many ways, winning is actually a secondary concept."

Would it therefore be logical to assume that games can also be used to build relationships?

"This is yet another benefit of becoming immersed within a well-written board game. Players have the chance to collaborate, to solve problems, and to learn more about one another."

Are some games naturally more creative than others?

"Yes, and this ultimately depends on the intention. For instance, certain games such as chess, and Monopoly are associated with a fixed sense of rules. Others provide users with more latitude. This is when the true fun begins."

So, are you saying that classics might not be as fun as their modern counterparts?

"No, I don't want to be misunderstood here. There are plenty of well-known board games that have provided entertainment for decades. It all boils down to what individual players are looking for."

Might there come a point when storytelling actually begins to detract from the journey?

"There can be times when developers take things too far. For instance, a confusing plot can easily become distracting. This is why creators have to walk a fine line between innovation, and a lack of organisation."

Some might argue that focusing too much on experience might negatively impact competitiveness. Is this the case?

"Not always. While some games are purely centred around winning (such as virtual horse racing), others can be just as much fun; regardless of the final outcome."

Do you think that digital games can be equally creative as board games?

"There are plenty of examples which illustrate how creativity will enhance the end-user experience. Firewatch is one title that immediately comes to mind. The main question is how much the software developers are willing to push the boundaries to create a novel journey."

We know that you're an active game developer. How do you keep ahead of the latest creative trends?

"I maintain an active presence across several social media circles such as Instagram, Facebook, and X. This enables me to obtain real-world insight, and to understand what interests contemporary players."

How do you feel about the rise in AI when creating stories within games?

"I'm rather neutral at the moment," he says with a hint of reticence. "However, I don't believe that artificial intelligence is currently advanced enough to create novel content from scratch."

On the same topic, will there ever come a day when AI supersedes human creativity in relation to games in general?

"I don't believe so. We need to remember that even the most advanced AI platforms simply collate information that already exists. However, we really don't know what the future may have in store."

How would you define the "ultimate" board game experience?

"One that offers in-depth narratives, flexible outcomes, and that requires players to actively engage with one another. In other words, a game that mimics life itself."

What would you say to the younger generation of players out there?

"Always look for a game that offers a novel approach. Perhaps more importantly, never be afraid to experiment with different genres. There are literally thousands of available options. Be creative!"