A Formal Approach to Game Design and Game Research (Notes)

MDA framework: Mechanics - Dynamics - Aesthetics.

The difference between games and other entertainment products is that their consumption is unpredictable.

Rules - System - Fun
Mechanics - Dynamics - Aesthetics

Mechanics - describes the particular components of the game at the level of data representation and algorithms.
Dynamics - describes the run-time behaviour of the mechanics acting on the players inputs and each others outputs over time.
Aesthetics - describes the desirable emotional responses evoked in the player, when he/she interacts with the game system. 

  Each component of the MDA framework can be thought of as a lens or a view of the game.
  Every game has multiple aesthetic goals. however some are emphasised over others, using aesthetics we can define modes for game play.
 Dynamics are used to make aesthetic experiences.

Expression comes from dynamics that encourage individuals to leave their mark.
Mechanics are the variou s actions, behaviours and control mechanisms offered to the player with a game context.
By adjusting the mechanics of a game we can fine tune the games overall dynamics.