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Online games are extremely popular especially
among younger players. But there is an increasing
interest in online games among baby boomers and
older folks. Features found in some games can
discourage more seasoned citizens from playing.
What are some of the best game features that 50+
people want in a game?
One of the most frustrating aspect of many games is
the amount of time given to play the game level.
The easier levels are OK but as the game get
interesting the time shortens in each level. Boomers
may not be interested in playing against the clock.
They just want to get through the game.
Do you realize how frustrating it is to be one or two
moves away from completing a level and have the
time run out? Some games have a “relaxed” mode
of play. This should be a required feature for anyone
designing a game to interest baby boomers.
Designing games for boomers could be a very
lucrative market. Just remember your more
seasoned citizens may not be as competitive as teen
boys. Boomers may be playing to relax and
stimulate their brains in a fun way. Or just taking a
break at work.
Of course it is also necessary to keep it simple
(KISS). No need for complicated rules or difficult to
achieve reward features. Keep it colorful, lively and
entertaining. Boomers aren’t trying to qualify for
the next pro gamers challenge.
Games for all us wiser ones can focus on non-
violent themes. We’re really not too interested in
shooting down pimps or slaying dragons. Blowing
up colored balls is enough excitement.
But some type of measurement is fun. Maybe telling
the player what per cent of colored blocks were
blown up would be a nice accuracy feature to
include. One game has a stats comparison against
the beta gamers, that’s nice.
A great feature for a boomer game would be the
ability to re-play any level at anytime. Some games
make the mistake of forcing the player to return to
either the beginning of that level or even worse the
beginning of the game. Do you really think it’s fun
to go back to level one when you failed level 64?
There are some new games that want the player to
find a clue or object in a game. It may be a room in
a house and the player must find 20 objects to go on
to the next level. There is a time limit. If you don’t
succeed you are stuck at that level forever. This is
not very motivating for older players. Let them skip
levels and continue playing. Hey, it’s just a game!
Boomers have money and are ready to download
free game trials for games that interest them. So tell
them about the great features in your new game
that will entice them to give it a try. Remembering
the features that boomers want in online games can
only add to game profits. Who knows younger
players may want these features too. The baby
boomer generation has always changed things, now
it’s time to change online games to suit their
interests.