Subtraction - Games

Subtraction in game design refers to the deliberate removal of elements to enhance player experience. This minimalist approach strips away non-essential features, focusing gameplay on core mechanics. It challenges developers to create depth through simplicity, often seen in puzzle games where removing pieces is key to progression. Symbolically, subtraction can represent loss, sacrifice, or purification within narratives, forcing players to adapt to diminishing resources or abilities. This design philosophy emphasizes strategic thinking over complexity, proving that less can indeed be more engaging in interactive entertainment.