Occult Game Design: An Initiation into Secrets and Mysteries Jeff Howard Professor of Game Development and Design Dakota State University Assistant Professor of Game Development and Design, DSU Arcana: A Ceremonial Game Magic Magick forthcoming Published 2008 Simulator Winter 2013, forthcoming Taylor and Francis/CRC Mystery = an overarching effect of • something hidden but decipherable about a game world Secrets = individual hidden elements • Initiation = the gradual revelation of • mystery, achieved by players through the attainment of skill and understanding Secrets can contribute to cult following But not all secrets are created equal (Ovaltine . . .) Lists of best Easter eggs No, they’re not. Cute Fourth wall breaking Meta