The Vignettes game, a newly released indie smartphone game available for iOS, doesn't have the structure of most mobile titles. While the average game has clearly delineated rules, some sort of scoring system, and other similar features, the Vignettes game has only one goal: discover all of the things. There are few more instructions than that (in fact, even that goal is never explicitly stated,) so the overall experience is free-flowing yet captivating.
The premise of the game is simple enough. Once the user opens it, they'll be presented with a random object — a television or a fire hydrant, say. By tapping, turning, and manipulating those objects, users will discover other objects hidden inside and around it. In this way, they go on a journey to find everything programmed into the game.
Transformative Discovery Games
The Vignettes Game is About Exploration and Discovery
Trend Themes
1. Exploration-based Gaming - Developing smartphone games that focus on open exploration rather than structured gameplay.
2. Minimalistic Gameplay - Designing games with minimal instructions and simple goals to enhance the user experience.
3. Hidden Object Mechanics - Incorporating elements of hidden object gameplay that require users to explore and discover hidden items within the game.
Industry Implications
1. Mobile Gaming - Applying the concept of exploration-based gaming to the mobile gaming industry.
2. Indie Game Development - Creating indie games that prioritize minimalistic gameplay and offer unique and immersive experiences.
3. Casual Gaming - Integrating hidden object mechanics into casual games to engage players in a more interactive and exploratory gameplay.