Games MDA

Game Mechanics Vs. Game Dynamics. Web Source: Flickr

The MDA Framework - Mechanics, Dynamics and Aesthetics. AKA Rules, System, Fun.

The difference between Mechanics and Dynamics: 

Mechanics: Constraints under which the game operates. What decisions can the player make? When and how does the game end? 

Dynamics: The behaviour that comes out of the game mechanic.

A dynamic of a game could be "Escape before the enemy catches you"

But the mechanics of the game wouldn't be as simple as this. The mechanics are all the parts that go into this action happening, behind the scenes. 

Aesthetics: This part of the MDA framework could be interpreted as what the game looks like. But it actually is what makes the game fun? There are different frameworks within a game 

1. Sensation
Game as sense-pleasure

2. Fantasy
Game as make-believe

3. Narrative Game as drama

4. Challenge
Game as obstacle course

5. Fellowship

Game as social framework 

6. Discovery

Game as uncharted territory 

7. Expression

Game as self-discovery 

8. Submission Game as pastime

Sources: MDA Framework, Designing to promote International Play, The difference between Mechanics and Dynamics.