Why is the plot important in a play?

Plot in a play isn’t just a sequence of events; it’s the game architecture of the narrative experience. A well-crafted plot acts as a compelling game loop, pulling the audience through a series of escalating challenges and rewards – emotional, intellectual, or otherwise.

Its importance stems from several key functions:

Narrative Structure: The plot provides the scaffolding. It’s the level design, establishing a clear beginning, rising action (difficulty curve), climax (boss fight), falling action, and resolution (endgame). A poorly structured plot is like a game with confusing objectives and frustrating gameplay.
Character Progression: Characters aren’t static; they evolve through the plot’s challenges. Their arcs, wins, and losses are directly tied to the narrative progression. This is character leveling; a well-defined plot allows for meaningful character development and player investment.
Thematic Exploration: The plot acts as the game engine driving the delivery of central themes. Each level, each encounter, contributes to a deeper understanding of the core message. Think of themes as achievements – unlocking them requires navigating the plot’s challenges.
Emotional Engagement: The plot manipulates the player’s emotional state. Suspense, anticipation, catharsis – these are all carefully orchestrated events, analogous to strategic pacing in level design. A gripping plot is a well-designed game that skillfully exploits the player’s emotional vulnerabilities.

Consider the player’s agency: the audience actively participates in deciphering the plot, making predictions, and experiencing the emotional rollercoaster. A strong plot maximizes this engagement, creating a memorable and impactful narrative experience. Weak plotting results in a predictable and unsatisfying game, leaving the player feeling cheated.

Furthermore, analyzing the plot structure – whether linear, branching, or non-linear – reveals valuable insights into the play’s overall design and its impact on the audience’s experience. The plot, fundamentally, is the game’s core mechanic, driving the engagement and ultimately, the success of the entire production.

Do you care about story in games?

Story in games? Dude, it’s EVERYTHING. A good narrative isn’t just fluff; it’s the glue that holds everything together. It’s what makes you understand *why* you’re pushing buttons, not just *what* buttons to push. Think about it: a compelling story gives weight to your choices, making even small decisions feel significant. It’s the difference between grinding through a checklist and actually *feeling* invested in the world and the characters. You’re not just completing objectives; you’re experiencing a journey, forging emotional connections, and becoming emotionally involved. Great storytelling also creates immersion—a believable world with consistent rules and believable characters lets you lose yourself completely. And, honestly, a solid story is a massive factor in replayability. If you connect with the narrative, you’ll want to experience it again, maybe from a different angle or to explore choices you missed the first time. That’s why I prioritize games with strong narratives—they offer a more complete and rewarding experience.

Consider games like *The Last of Us* or *Red Dead Redemption 2* – the stories are just as important, if not more so, than the gameplay. They’re masterclasses in narrative design. They show how a great story can elevate even relatively simple mechanics. Conversely, a weak story can completely derail even the most polished gameplay. It’s all about that emotional connection.

So yeah, story matters. A LOT. It’s the heart of a truly great game.

How important is story in games?

Story’s importance in games, especially within the competitive esports landscape, is multifaceted and often underestimated. While gameplay mechanics form the core of competition, a compelling narrative significantly impacts a game’s longevity and viewership.

Player Engagement and Retention: A strong narrative fosters emotional investment, increasing player engagement far beyond just mechanical skill. This translates to a larger player base, crucial for maintaining a healthy esports ecosystem. Think of games like League of Legends or Dota 2; their rich lore and character development contribute significantly to their enduring popularity and massive viewership.

Viewership and Spectatorship: Narrative depth enhances the spectator experience. Understanding character motivations and the overarching story creates a more engaging viewing experience, even for those who don’t actively play the game. This is especially vital for attracting casual viewers and building a broader esports audience.

Brand Building and Marketing: A well-crafted narrative acts as a powerful marketing tool. Memorable characters and storylines generate compelling content, enabling more effective marketing campaigns and increased brand loyalty. This translates directly into increased sponsorship opportunities and revenue streams for esports organizations.

Strategic Depth and Meta-Game Influence: While seemingly separate, story can subtly influence the in-game meta. Character backstories and relationships can inform strategic decision-making, adding another layer of complexity appreciated by both players and viewers. This is less overt than direct gameplay mechanics but contributes to the overall richness of the experience.

Examples of Narrative Impact:

League of Legends‘ extensive lore creates compelling rivalries and character arcs, boosting viewership and fan engagement.
Overwatch‘s diverse character roster, each with their own backstory, enriches the competitive experience and makes the game more accessible to a broader audience.
Valorant, while less lore-heavy, uses agent abilities and character design to build intrigue and enhance the visual appeal of the competitive matches.

Conclusion (Implicit): While mechanical skill remains paramount in esports, neglecting the narrative aspect significantly limits a game’s potential for sustained growth and widespread appeal. A strong story enhances engagement across all levels, from the casual player to the dedicated esports professional.

How important is the plot?

Plot is paramount in game design, functioning as the game’s core structure, akin to a skeleton providing the framework for all other elements. It dictates the player’s journey, defining the “What, When, and Where” of the gameplay experience. A compelling plot isn’t merely a linear sequence of events; it’s a carefully crafted system of cause and effect, punctuated by meaningful player choices and impactful consequences. The “What” encompasses the core conflict, the player’s objectives, and the stakes involved. The “When” establishes pacing and rhythm, dictating the timing of crucial events and ensuring player engagement doesn’t falter. The “Where” creates the setting, atmosphere, and level design, influencing how players interact with the narrative and the game world.

Strong plot design in games must consider player agency. A well-structured plot provides opportunities for meaningful player choice, branching narratives, and emergent gameplay, all while maintaining a cohesive and satisfying narrative arc. A weak plot, conversely, results in a disjointed experience, frustrating players with illogical events or a lack of player impact. Consider the difference between a linear, on-rails experience and one that allows for multiple paths and varied outcomes. The latter offers substantially higher replayability and player investment.

Furthermore, the plot should directly inform game mechanics and progression systems. The challenges players overcome should directly relate to the plot’s central conflict, and the rewards earned should feel significant within the narrative context. This symbiotic relationship strengthens the overall narrative immersion and increases player satisfaction. Failure to integrate plot and mechanics results in a disjointed and ultimately unsatisfying experience. Think carefully about how each plot point affects the player’s experience at the mechanical level.

Ultimately, the plot’s effectiveness can be measured by its ability to create a memorable and engaging player journey. It serves as a powerful tool for player emotional investment, driving them through the game world and fostering a lasting connection to the narrative and the characters involved. A well-crafted plot is a critical success factor that will influence player retention and overall game satisfaction far beyond other individual aspects of the game.

Why do you need a plot?

Plot points aren’t arbitrary events; they’re crucial tools for sculpting your protagonist’s character arc. Think of them as signposts guiding your character along their journey of transformation.

Understanding Character Arcs: A successful character arc involves significant internal change. This could be a shift in personality, morality, worldview, or even just a deeper understanding of themselves. Defining this arc before you start plotting is paramount.

Connecting Plot to Arc: Each plot point should directly impact your protagonist’s journey. If your character is transforming from cowardly to brave, consider these:

Examples of Plot Points & Their Impact:

Positive Shifts (towards bravery): A plot point might involve them facing a minor fear and succeeding, boosting their confidence. Or perhaps they make a selfless act, revealing unexpected courage. These successes should incrementally move them along the arc.

Negative Shifts (regression to cowardice): Remember, setbacks are essential! A plot point could involve a devastating failure that temporarily reinforces their cowardice. This isn’t a failure of your plot; it’s a realistic portrayal of growth, which rarely happens in a straight line. The crucial aspect is how they *respond* to this setback—do they learn from it or allow it to define them?

Avoiding Plot-Driven Arcs: A common mistake is creating a plot that simply *happens* to the protagonist, with minimal internal change. Your plot points should be catalysts for internal growth, not just external events.

The “Inciting Incident” and Beyond: The inciting incident is the initial plot point that sets your protagonist’s journey in motion. Subsequent plot points should build in intensity and complexity, escalating the stakes and testing your character’s resolve at every turn. This creates a compelling narrative that keeps the audience engaged.

The Importance of Stakes: Every plot point should raise the stakes, forcing your protagonist to confront their flaws and ultimately embrace their transformation. Higher stakes = higher tension = a more impactful character arc.

What is a plot and its purpose?

Plot’s not just a random string of events, rookies. It’s the strategic deployment of narrative elements, the game plan for your story. Think of it as your esports strategy: individual plays (events) are crucial, but the plot is the overarching strategy that dictates the pacing, reveals, and ultimately, the victory (resolution). A strong plot builds tension, creates stakes, and keeps the audience engaged – just like a nail-biting grand final. It’s about crafting a compelling arc, carefully orchestrating the rising action, climax, and falling action to maximize impact. Weak plotlines are predictable, boring, and get you swiftly eliminated from the tournament. Mastering plot is about understanding conflict—the core struggle—and presenting it in a way that maximizes emotional resonance and keeps viewers glued to their screens, hungry for more. It’s about skillful manipulation of timing, suspense, and revelations—the ultimate clutch play.

Think of it like this: a disorganized mess of events is like a team with no synergy, no strategy. A well-crafted plot is a coordinated team that executes a perfect strategy. Each event contributes to the overall narrative goal, building towards a satisfying and memorable conclusion. It’s about understanding your audience, anticipating their expectations and then expertly subverting them.

So yeah, plot is the difference between a casual pub game and a world championship run. It’s the heart of effective storytelling, the engine that drives the narrative forward.

Is plot or character more important?

The “plot vs. character” debate is a noob trap. It’s not an either/or situation; they’re symbiotic. Think of it like a PvP fight: a ridiculously overpowered character (amazing characterization) with zero strategy (weak plot) will get wrecked by a cleverly strategized, less powerful character (strong plot, adequate characterization).

The key is balance. A compelling character needs conflict – a plot – to drive their arc. Stagnation equals boredom. Conversely, a gripping plot requires believable characters to anchor it; audience investment is directly tied to character empathy.

Weak Plot, Strong Character: Imagine an incredibly charismatic rogue with a rich backstory… who spends the entire story lounging in a tavern. Unengaging.
Strong Plot, Weak Character: A thrilling heist with cardboard cut-out characters. Suspenseful, but ultimately forgettable.

Here’s how to master the balance:

Define clear character goals: What does your character *want*? This fuels the plot.
Craft obstacles: The plot is the battlefield where your character’s goals are challenged.
Show, don’t tell: Reveal character through actions and reactions to plot events, not exposition dumps.
Internal conflict: Give your character internal struggles that mirror the external plot conflicts.
Raise the stakes: The higher the stakes, the more invested the reader becomes, in both plot and character.

Bottom line: Masterful storytelling blends plot and character seamlessly. One enhances the other. Focus on crafting compelling characters *within* a compelling plot; that’s where the true wins are.

What is plot importance?

Yo, what’s up, plot importance? It’s basically the backbone of any story, whether it’s a game, a movie, a book – you name it. Think of it as the sequence of events, but not just a boring list of “this happened, then that happened.” It’s all about the cause and effect, the domino effect of events that drive the narrative forward. A strong plot keeps you hooked, wondering “what happens next?”.

Here’s the breakdown of why it’s so crucial:

Keeps you engaged: A well-crafted plot creates suspense, tension, and surprises that keep you glued to your screen (or book!). Without a compelling plot, it’s just a bunch of random stuff happening.
Develops Characters: The plot isn’t just about events; it’s about how those events change your characters. It’s where they face challenges, make choices, and ultimately, evolve. Think of it as a character’s level-up system.
Creates Themes: A solid plot helps you explore bigger themes and ideas. What are the central conflicts? What’s the message the creator is trying to convey? The plot is the vehicle to deliver that.

Let me give you an example. Think of a classic RPG. A simple plot might be “go here, kill that, get the treasure.” But a *great* plot will have branching paths, unexpected twists, betrayals, and moral dilemmas that make the journey far more interesting. It’s about more than just the destination; it’s the epic adventure getting there.

So, next time you’re playing a game or watching a movie, think about the plot. How well are the events connected? How effectively does it build tension and reveal the characters? That’s the key to an amazing story.

Exposition: Sets the stage. Who are the characters? What’s the world like?
Rising Action: Things get interesting! Conflicts arise, stakes get higher.
Climax: The peak of the action – the big showdown!
Falling Action: The aftermath of the climax, things start to calm down.
Resolution: The loose ends are tied up, the story concludes.

Why is storyline important?

Storylines are crucial because they’re powerful tools for connection. They allow us to step into someone else’s shoes, fostering empathy and understanding, regardless of whether we personally know them. Hearing a narrative triggers emotional responses, creating a deeper, more meaningful engagement than simply presenting facts. This emotional resonance is key for building community and creating memorable experiences, something incredibly important for streamers looking to cultivate a loyal audience.

Think about it: a well-crafted narrative can elevate even mundane gameplay into something truly captivating. The narrative arc, the character development, the stakes – these all contribute to a richer viewing experience, keeping viewers hooked and invested in the outcome. It’s about more than just gameplay; it’s about creating a shared journey, making your stream a compelling story your audience wants to be a part of.

What game had the best story?

Unveiling the Narrative Masterpieces: Top Story-Driven Games

Choosing the single “best” is subjective, but these consistently top lists for their compelling narratives:

The Last of Us (2013): A post-apocalyptic masterpiece exploring themes of survival, love, and loss with unforgettable characters and emotionally resonant storytelling. Its impact on narrative design in gaming remains profound.

Red Dead Redemption II (2018): An epic Western saga boasting stunning visuals, a sprawling open world, and a complex, morally gray protagonist. Its nuanced characters and branching narrative pathways offer unparalleled replayability.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015): A sprawling fantasy RPG with a rich world, memorable characters, and impactful choices that shape the narrative. Its side quests are often lauded as better than many games’ main storylines.

God of War (2018): A masterful reboot that reinvents Kratos as a complex, flawed father. The game delivers stunning action alongside a deeply personal and emotional narrative.

Mass Effect 2 (2010): Celebrated for its character-driven narrative and impactful choices that carry over into subsequent games. Its emphasis on squad dynamics and loyalty missions created a unique level of player investment.

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (2003): A classic RPG that set a new standard for narrative depth in Star Wars games. Its compelling story, memorable characters, and moral choices left a lasting impact on the franchise.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: A timeless classic whose impact on game design and storytelling is undeniable. Its epic scope, memorable characters, and captivating world continue to captivate players today.

Grand Theft Auto V (2013): While known for its open-world sandbox gameplay, GTA V also features a surprisingly complex and engaging narrative with three distinct protagonists, each with their own compelling storyline and motivations.

Are there only 7 story plots?

The “seven basic plots” idea? It’s a simplification, a meta-narrative framework, not a hard and fast rule. Think of it like a low-level API for storytelling. Sure, you can categorize a lot of narratives under those umbrellas – Overcoming the Monster (think *Doom*, *Dark Souls*), Rags to Riches (the classic underdog esports story!), The Quest (many MMORPG storylines), Voyage and Return (a common structure in battle royale games), Comedy (a lot of streamers’ content leans here), Tragedy (the fall of a champion, an emotional narrative arc), and Rebirth (a comeback story after a slump).

But the real power comes from understanding how these archetypes interact. Many narratives blend them seamlessly. A single game might incorporate elements of multiple plots. For example, a competitive game’s story could be a Quest to achieve victory, but the individual player narratives might be a mix of Rags to Riches (climbing the leaderboard) and Overcoming the Monster (consistently defeating rivals).

Furthermore, successful storytelling goes beyond these basic frameworks. Execution, character development, world-building, and pacing are all critical elements that differentiate a good story from a generic one. It’s like mastering mechanics in a game: knowing the basics is essential, but true mastery comes from strategic application, creative improvisation, and understanding your audience – your target demographic.

It’s not about strict adherence to seven plots, it’s about using them as a springboard for innovation. Think of them as core game mechanics that you can build upon. They are foundational, not limiting. Let’s explore some key differences:

Linear vs. Non-Linear: Some plots are more linear (e.g., the quest), while others allow for more player agency and branching paths (e.g., the voyage and return).
Emotional Impact: The emotional impact is paramount. A tragedy hitting close to home will resonate far more powerfully than a generic version. Mastering this element is crucial for engagement.
Genre Influence: The genre heavily influences the implementation of these archetypes. A horror game using the overcoming the monster plot will differ greatly from an RPG.

Ultimately, focusing solely on these seven plots limits the creative possibilities. It’s more accurate to view them as useful tools in a larger arsenal of narrative techniques.

What is the purpose of the plot?

The purpose of plot is fundamental to storytelling. It’s not merely a skeletal framework; it’s the very architecture of your narrative. Think of it as the invisible scaffolding that supports your story, giving shape and meaning to individual scenes and characters.

Why a good plot is crucial:

Organization and Structure: A strong plot provides a roadmap. It allows you to arrange seemingly disparate events, characters, and themes into a cohesive and compelling narrative. Without it, your story risks feeling disjointed and confusing.
Engagement and Suspense: A well-crafted plot keeps the reader engaged. It creates anticipation, builds suspense, and delivers satisfying resolutions. This is achieved through strategic pacing, effective foreshadowing, and well-placed twists.
Theme Development: Plot is instrumental in exploring and highlighting your story’s themes. The events and their consequences directly illustrate the central ideas you wish to convey.
Character Development: Plot provides opportunities for character growth and transformation. Characters are often shaped and defined by the challenges and conflicts they face within the plot’s framework.

Beyond Plot: Other Key Elements:

While a good plot is essential, it’s not the sole determinant of a successful story. Other critical elements include:

Compelling Characters: Readers need to connect with your characters on an emotional level.
Vivid Setting: A well-developed setting brings your story to life.
Strong Voice and Style: Your unique writing voice and style contribute significantly to the overall reader experience.
Theme and Meaning: A story needs something to say, a message or idea that resonates with the reader.

Plot Structures to Consider:

Classical Structure: Exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution.
In Media Res: Beginning in the middle of the action.
Non-linear Narrative: Jumping between timelines or perspectives.

Remember: A strong plot is a powerful tool, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Mastering the craft of storytelling involves a delicate balance of various elements working in harmony.

Is Game of Thrones plot or character driven?

So, is Game of Thrones plot or character-driven? It’s a complex question, and the answer is nuanced. While the show certainly features epic battles and exciting action sequences – often stemming directly from character decisions – that alone doesn’t define a character-driven narrative. Think of Die Hard: the action is wild, but driven by the choices of many characters. It’s plot-focused, even with compelling characters.

Game of Thrones, however, is largely character-driven, excluding the almost mythical White Walkers. The story unfolds organically from the ambitions, flaws, and relationships of its incredibly complex cast. The political machinations, betrayals, and alliances – they all stem from character motivations. The plot points feel less pre-ordained and more a consequence of these individual characters making choices, good and bad. The best example is probably Daenerys’ arc; her descent into tyranny was a direct consequence of her character choices and evolving motivations, rather than simply a plot point. We see years of character development directly impact the story’s trajectory. That, my friends, is the hallmark of a truly character-driven masterpiece – even if the dragons and battles are undeniably spectacular.

Key takeaway: While the action is crucial, Game of Thrones’ strength lies in its deeply developed characters whose choices shape the narrative, not the other way around. It’s a carefully woven tapestry of individual actions creating a larger-than-life story.

Can a story have no plot?

While a traditional plot structure—exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution—is often essential for longer narratives, the necessity diminishes significantly in shorter forms. A compelling story doesn’t always require a complex, multi-layered plot. Think of it in terms of scope and impact.

Micro-narratives and the Power of Suggestion: Short stories, vignettes, even single-sentence narratives can be potent precisely because of their brevity. They rely on evocative language and implied meaning rather than elaborate plot mechanics. The focus shifts from “what happens” to “how it feels” and “what it means.”

Examples of Plotless (or Near-Plotless) Storytelling:

Character-driven narratives: These prioritize character development and internal conflict over external events. A character’s internal struggle, transformation, or epiphany forms the core of the story, even without a significant plot progression.
Atmospheric narratives: These focus on creating a specific mood or atmosphere. The plot might be minimal, but the reader is captivated by the setting, sensory details, and overall tone.
Slice-of-life narratives: These depict ordinary moments and everyday experiences. The emphasis is on realism and relatable situations; a significant plot event isn’t necessary.

Crafting Effective Plotless Stories:

Strong imagery and sensory details: Immerse the reader in the experience through vivid descriptions.
Compelling characters: Even without a dramatic plot, a well-developed character can carry the story.
Subtlety and implication: Let the reader infer meaning and draw their own conclusions.
Precise language: Every word should contribute to the overall effect.
A strong ending: Even without a traditional resolution, the ending should leave a lasting impression.

Consider these examples: A man curses his neighbor – the impact lies in the unspoken history and simmering resentment. A widow quits her mahjongg group – the focus is on her internal decision and the ripple effect on her life. An unhappy family goes on a picnic – the unspoken tension and subtle interactions reveal the family dynamic more powerfully than a dramatic conflict could.

In essence, skillful writing can create a compelling narrative even in the absence of a traditional plot. The key is to prioritize impact over events.

Why is storytelling so powerful?

Storytelling? It’s the ultimate game mechanic. You’re not just presenting facts – you’re crafting a compelling level design. Data? That’s your inventory, your resources. Use them wisely to build tension, create believable encounters, and level up the player’s emotional investment. A good story is like a well-designed dungeon – it keeps the player engaged, moving them through different environments, facing unexpected challenges, and ultimately achieving a powerful sense of accomplishment. It’s about manipulating the player’s perspective, guiding them through a carefully curated experience so they understand your vision, believe in your quest, and join your party.

Think of it like this: You’re the Dungeon Master, the player is your audience. A dry data dump is like a boring, empty room – no immersion, no emotional connection. But weave in a narrative, reveal the lore, create memorable NPCs (characters!), and suddenly, that empty room becomes a legendary battlefield. A compelling story unlocks hidden achievements: trust, buy-in, and ultimately, shared victory. It’s the ultimate boss fight for your idea.

Mastering narrative is key to achieving endgame success. It’s not just about the destination; it’s the journey, the carefully crafted progression, the unexpected twists and turns that keep the player hooked. The most hardcore players know that, it’s how you win over the toughest critics and convert casuals into devout followers.

What is the point of a plot?

The plot, at its core, isn’t just a series of events; it’s the engine driving your narrative. Plot points are the crucial moments – the high-octane fuel injections – that propel the story forward. Think of them as the major narrative beats that irrevocably alter the trajectory of your protagonist’s journey and the overall story arc. These aren’t minor incidents; they’re game-changers.

A well-placed plot point throws a wrench into the established order, forcing your characters to react and adapt. This reaction, this struggle, is where the gold lies. It’s the crucible where character development is forged. A seemingly insurmountable obstacle? A shocking revelation? A pivotal decision with far-reaching consequences? These are the hallmarks of effective plot points.

Consider the classic three-act structure: the inciting incident (that initial spark igniting the plot), the midpoint (where everything changes, often dramatically), and the climax (the ultimate showdown). Each of these acts is punctuated by smaller plot points, each building tension and anticipation. Mastering the art of strategically placing these points is key to crafting a compelling narrative.

Pro-tip: Don’t just *tell* the plot point; *show* it. Use vivid descriptions, impactful dialogue, and sensory details to immerse the reader/viewer in the experience. The more visceral the impact of these plot points, the more memorable your story will be. Think of it as a carefully orchestrated symphony of narrative events, each note meticulously placed for maximum emotional impact.

Remember, plot points are not just about action; they are about change. They are the catalysts that transform your characters, their relationships, and the very landscape of your story. They’re the pillars upon which a truly unforgettable narrative is built.

What counts as a plot?

A plot, in the context of games, is a structured sequence of cause-and-effect events driving the narrative. Think of it as the game’s storyline, but with a crucial distinction: it’s not just *what* happens, but *why* it happens and the impact of those happenings on the overall story arc. A strong plot isn’t just a series of disconnected events; it’s a carefully crafted chain reaction where player choices, or the progression of the game’s mechanics, trigger pivotal moments that shape the world and the characters’ destinies. Weak plots, on the other hand, often feel arbitrary or contrived, lacking the satisfying sense of momentum and purpose a well-designed plot provides. Effective plotting often involves establishing clear stakes early on—what’s at risk, what the characters stand to gain or lose—and then building tension through escalating conflict and challenges leading to a satisfying resolution (or, in some cases, a deliberate and impactful lack thereof).

Beyond the linear progression of events, plot also encompasses the underlying themes and motivations of characters. A compelling plot will use narrative devices like foreshadowing, red herrings, and twists to keep players engaged and invested. It’s about more than just winning or losing; it’s about the journey, the choices made, and the consequences that arise from them. A plot’s effectiveness hinges on its ability to create a believable, emotionally resonant, and ultimately memorable experience for the player.