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Alexandra Elson
Level Design
Best Practices for Combining Japanese and Western Roleplaying Game Attributes
My thesis discussed best practices for combining elements of Japanese and Western Roleplaying Games , or RPGs . The project ’ s goal was to find elements in both RPG types that would appeal to fans of both RPGs . It was developed over two semesters . I conducted research to determine which elements to use before the artifact was created in Skyrim Special Edition .
I chose to work on this project because I enjoy playing Japanese RPGs , and I have worked on Western RPGs . Both types of RPGs have their benefits and drawbacks , and I wanted to determine if the games would benefit from drawing inspiration from the other type of RPG . I also wanted to improve my skills on working with both RPG styles .
to differentiate a Western from a Japanese styled game . I developed my skills in designing a Japanese RPG style story and a Western RPG environment . I learned that significant choices in video games should be impactful for the player and that they are much more involved then simply making the player choose between at least two outcomes .
This thesis demonstrates how Japanese and Western RPGs can draw inspiration from each other in their gameplay . The best practices provide suggestions on how to appeal to both fans of Japanese RPGs and Western RPGs .
During the project , I learned what type of gameplay elements both Western and Japanese style RPGs focus on and how
42 LEVEL DESIGN