game-design

Evaluate game mechanics using a 5-Component Filter rubric.

11|5|Updated Jan 9, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/rbergman/dark-matter-marketplace --skill game-design-rbergman
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: game-design
Source: https://github.com/rbergman/dark-matter-marketplace/tree/main/plugins/game-dev/skills/game-design
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/rbergman/dark-matter-marketplace --skill game-design-rbergman

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill helps teams evaluate and refine game mechanics from a player-centered perspective, ensuring that player experience drives design decisions rather than feature completion.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Constraint-driven evaluation: A framework to assess mechanics against a 5-Component Filter (Clarity, Motivation, Response, Satisfaction, Fit).
  • Structured development protocol: Provides a state-machine checklist, debugging protocol, and playtest templates to guide implementation and validation.
  • Use Case: Use during balance reviews, progression design, and system tuning to ensure mechanics align with the game's identity and player goals.

Quick Start

  • Load the Skill and start by reading the 5-component rubric in references/5-component-rubric.md.

Frequently Asked Questions about game-design

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I evaluate game mechanics from a player-centric perspective?

To evaluate game mechanics from a player-centric perspective, apply a structured constraint framework and a 5-Component rubric assessing Clarity, Motivation, Response, Satisfaction, and Fit to ensure player experience drives design decisions.

What is the best way to structure game balance and progression reviews?

The best way to structure game balance and progression reviews is to use a structured development protocol featuring a state-machine checklist, debugging protocol, and playtest templates to validate mechanic alignment with game identity.

How do I debug game feel and player experience issues during playtesting?

Debug game feel and player experience issues by applying a structured debugging protocol alongside playtest templates to systematically evaluate system response, mechanic satisfaction, and overall player progression.

When do I need a constraint framework for game system tuning?

You need a constraint framework for game system tuning when evaluating complex mechanic interactions, ensuring that balance adjustments, progression design, and overall feel align directly with player goals and game identity.

Does this player-centric design approach work for diverse game systems?

Yes, this player-centric design approach works for diverse game systems by applying a flexible 5-Component evaluation rubric and state-machine guidance to assess mechanics regardless of specific genre or system complexity.