Here are some ways to gain currency in a game:
- collect/ harvest resources
- collect points directly ( mario and the lot) : double points, powerups, suprise points. // seek and find points
- win a conflict in order to get points
- win an argument in order to get points
- solve a problem ( a mystery, a puzzle etc ) to win credit
- share expertise and get rewarded ( mmo’s )
- participate in the community and get macro points ( by achieving better strategy)
- perform and gain points ( subjective judgement)
- be evaluated by your fellow players ( judging- social games)
- capture a territory and win points
- find your way out of something ( a labyrinth , a maze ) // or eliminate something : reward through elimination
- ’steal’/ acquire points – attack// could also be challenge your enemy in battle to win his points
- create / make thing and get points ( mmos’)
- ‘bet’ on value / risk to get points?
- combine and win ( card games where certain combos give you more points)
- get time bonus ( racing )
Here are some ways to spend currency :
- buy objects / get stuff
- make things
- get a skill ( be more powerful or win a special power ) / LEVEL UP
- unlock something
- trade objects
- get collectibles
- participate in a new community ( with ‘leveled up’ players)
Another issue we also may want to look into is the idea of macro-micro points.
micro points : small rewards, require minimum amount of effort and provide instant gratification
macro points : harder to get rewards and if combined with strategy will lead you into future victory
Finally, points in games have standard growing patterns such as single points , super points , bonus- unexpected, double, triple, power up etc
