Introduction:

As a video game developer, you’re constantly striving to create an immersive and engaging experience for your players. But one question that often arises is how long your game should last. Is it better to create a short, focused game or a longer, more complex game? In this guide, we will explore the pros and cons of both approaches, as well as provide some tips and best practices for creating games of varying lengths.

The Importance of Game Length:

Firstly, let’s establish why game length is such an important factor. Games that are too short can feel rushed and unfinished, while those that are too long can lose player interest or become overwhelming. On the other hand, games that are just the right length can provide a satisfying experience for players, keeping them engaged from start to finish.

Short Games:

Now let’s take a look at short games. These games typically last between one and three hours and offer a focused, streamlined gaming experience. Short games are often created with the intention of being replayed multiple times or shared with others, as they can be easily completed in a single sitting. Examples of successful short games include “Journey,” “Braid,” and “Paper Planes.”

Pros:

• Games that are too short can feel rushed and unfinished.
• Short games offer a focused, streamlined gaming experience.
• Short games can be easily completed in a single sitting, making them ideal for on-the-go play.
• Short games often have high replayability, as players can enjoy trying different strategies or completing the game in different ways.
• Short games are often created with the intention of being shared with others, providing an opportunity to spread the word about your game.

Cons:

• Short games may not provide enough depth or complexity for some players.
• Short games can be seen as cheap or rushed by some players, potentially damaging your reputation.
• Short games may not be as profitable, as they require less time and resources to develop.

Best Practices:

If you’re planning to create a short game, it’s important to keep in mind that the gameplay should be streamlined and focused. This means that every element of the game must serve a specific purpose, and there should be no unnecessary filler content. Additionally, make sure that the game is designed with replayability in mind, as players are more likely to continue playing a game they enjoy.

Long Games:

Now let’s take a look at long games. These games typically last between 10 and 40 hours and offer a more complex, immersive gaming experience. Long games often require a significant time investment from players, who must commit to multiple play sessions over an extended period. Examples of successful long games include “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt,” “Red Dead Redemption 2,” and “Horizon Zero Dawn.”

Pros:

• Long games offer a more complex, immersive gaming experience.
• Long games often provide more opportunities for exploration and discovery.
• Long games can be seen as more sophisticated and high-quality by some players.



• Long games often have more depth and complexity, providing hours of gameplay.
• Long games can be highly profitable, as they require a significant time investment from players.

Cons:

• Long games may not hold player interest over the course of their lengthy playtime.
• Long games can be seen as overwhelming or daunting by some players.
• Long games often require a significant time investment from players, which may deter some from playing them.
• Long games can be more expensive and resource-intensive to develop than short games.

Best Practices:

If you’re planning to create a long game, it’s important to keep in mind that the gameplay should be engaging and immersive. This means that every element of the game must serve a specific purpose and contribute to the overall experience. Additionally, make sure that the game is designed with pacing in mind, as players may lose interest if the content becomes too repetitive or predictable.