1. Become One with the Game. In other words, study the mechanics behind the game play. Every game is built around a pattern. Learn this and you can figure out the game. Each time you try to beat a certain level, for instance, you many notice that a character may kill you the same way each time. Watch the way this character moves in the game, because your timing may be all it needs to defeat this "foe" and move forward in the game.
Perhaps all it takes is to turn the corner a second sooner, or sneak up on him to break his need right before he turns around down the hall. Some characters have particular "hit" areas that will weaken them and kill them faster. Look for these things and it is just a matter of time before you catch on and master the game.
2. Play with your friends, and ask around. Chances are you hang with a crowd of people that play games as much as you do. If you don't, join an online game environment. Many games today allow you to play with others online, connected to the same server. This is a great way to get advice, learn from others and meet new people. It also makes the game more interesting. It may be easy to beat the computer or console, but a little harder to beat someone's unexpected moves.
3. Use the Internet. There are tons of sites that offer walkthroughs, cheats, and hints. These sites are geared for the "gamer at heart" and offer pictures, chat rooms, advice, and naturally a "guide" to the structure of the game play. A true gamer, however, should never use the cheats area unless it is totally imperative.
My recommendation is not to use cheats unless you totally are in a "rut", or if you have beat the game on your own and just want to open up the "hidden" modes.
4. Gameshark! I know I just mentioned trying not to cheat above, but this add-on to your console is perfect to help you achieve those perfect scores, over and over again. That is, if this is what you are going for. This gives you the ability to "unlock" secrets within the game. Unlimited lives, invincibility, change of characters, unlimited ammo, new weapons, you "name it".) Naturally you are limited to what modes are programmed into the game, created by the programming wizards behind it. This also allows you to access hidden levels that perhaps you can not get to because you just can't beat a level you are stuck on.
5. Repetitive motion, what! Some games are built on the speed at which you play. Since not all games are based on characters with in-depth action plots, you may find that you are playing a game that is based on strategy and timing. Many online games provide you a chance to play against, well, yourself. You need to beat the time allotted, or your best time, to progress to the next level. This next level may very well be identical to the previous, but just a "little" faster. The goal, naturally, is to get the highest score possible and have a surplus of extra lives to get there. Although you are putting all you energy in your wrist and finger movement, you may want to sit with the correct posture and look directly into your monitor, not have the monitor off to the side. The goal is to give your body the best alignment and reduce tension on your wrist and fingers. Hence my next tip:
6. Posture, a.k.a. Ergonomics. I know this sounds like the "hum drum" rantings of a doctor, or a mother, but your posture is key to staying alert and getting the most out of your reflexes. The following is a list from Cornell University Ergonomics Web Site:
- Back supported by chair (sitting back in chair with back >90° and well supported)
- Chair seat should not compress behind the knees
- Feet firmly on a surface for support
- Head balanced on neck (not tilted back or too far forwards)
- Popliteal angle >90° (i.e. angle behind the knees should be open)
- Upper arms close to body and relaxed (not abducted to the side or flexed forward)
- Elbow angle >90° (forearm below horizontal)
- Wrist neutral (<15°) (wrist/hand level with forearm)
7. Console Game comfort. Ok, once again, I am harping, but the way you sit will give you a better chance of staying alert and get good nerve flow to your fingers for those quick moves. Just remember to get up once in a while to get the blood going and give yourself a chance to gain some fresh insight into your game play. There have been so many times when I start to play a game at 10 a.m. and don't stop to eat or take a break till after 5 p.m. I find that when I can't get through a particular part in the game, I step away. Lets face it, no one should be in front of a TV for that long of a time, but it happens. Try to step outside for a bit or get some food, you may come back and just have enough rejuvenation to beat that level with your "new head".
8. Start your own Chat Room. I know several people that have done this. Start your own site dedicated to your favorite games or "games". You will be surprised at how many people will start to add feedback and advice.
9. Play a previous version. Many games today have had prior versions made. Look at Mortal Kombat and how far this has come. Allot of times if you have been a devout fan and player of a game, similarities will help you work out the new controls or mechanics behind a game. It won't be long before you catch on to what is new and "improved" in the game, and be able to complete the game successfully.
10. PLAY PLAY PLAY. I think this is a combination of all of the above. Play the game often, and never ever give up. The real thing to remember is that once you complete a game, you can now play it again, perhaps on a harder mode, and then again, and again. Many games today allow you to open up new levels, so it almost seems like the game is never ending. The real challenge of course is being able to beat yourself and your old score.
Playing with your friends and perhaps others online if the game permits, is also rewarding. There are many online games that now allow you to log into and WIN prizes or money. It feels great to say you are the "master" of a particular game, who can perhaps provide your own tips to others who are just beginning to play. GOOD LUCK!
Vikki Hrody
Media Arts & Animation Instructor
The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago