There are some things about game design you can only learn from watching groups of players dash around a room smashing red buttons and frantically shouting instructions at each other.

Few game makers know these lessons better than Alistair Aitcheson, an independent game developer who builds quirky multiplayer experiences (like Tap Happy Sabotage) about physical contact and social interaction. 

At GDC Europe 2015 Aitcheson spoke at length about what he'd learned about game design and player experience from making games in physical spaces, as well as what unconventional interfaces reveal about how players embody themselves within UI.

He also shared techniques fellow game makers can use to create pace and surprise, expressive play, and unique stories for players to bring home with them.

It was the sort of talk you rarely hear, packed with unique insights and perspectives on the nature of game development. It's worth your time to watch, and you can do so right now (for free!) via the GDC Vault.

About the GDC Vault

In addition to this presentation, the GDC Vault and its new YouTube channel offers numerous other free videos, audio recordings, and slides from many of the recent Game Developers Conference events, and the service offers even more members-only content for GDC Vault subscribers.

Those who purchased All Access passes to recent events like GDC, GDC Europe, and GDC Next already have full access to GDC Vault, and interested parties can apply for the individual subscription via a GDC Vault subscription page. Group subscriptions are also available: game-related schools and development studios who sign up for GDC Vault Studio Subscriptions can receive access for their entire office or company by contacting staff via the GDC Vault group subscription page. Finally, current subscribers with access issues can contact GDC Vault technical support.

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