What is the difference between player agency and player choice in games?

What is the difference between player agency and player choice in games?

Player agency refers to the degree of control a player has over their actions and decisions in a game. Player choice, on the other hand, is about the options available to the player within the game.

Can you give me an example of each?

Sure! An example of player agency is when a player can choose to explore any part of an open world freely. An example of player choice is when a player must decide between two different story paths that affect the game's outcome.

Which one is more important for a good gaming experience?

Both are important, but it often depends on the type of game. Games that focus on storytelling may prioritize player choice, while open-world games may emphasize player agency.

How do developers balance these two aspects?

Developers balance player agency and choice by designing systems that allow for meaningful decisions while also providing freedom to explore. This can involve creating branching narratives alongside open-world elements.