The Puppet Master
Designing Games for Players Without Free Will.

Challenge traditional game design. The Puppet Master offers a provocative, science-backed approach for game designers and researchers, diving into the science of player behavior. It argues that understanding determinism—not assumed free will—is the key to crafting truly engaging and ethical game experiences.
This guide challenges traditional notions of free will to explore how a deeper understanding of human nature leads to more effective and player-respecting games.
In This Book, You’ll Learn How To:
- Explore the neuroscience that challenges the concept of "free will" in players.
- Understand how the feeling of choice and agency can be crafted.
- Design intuitive interfaces and "brain-friendly" onboarding processes.
- Rewire your approach to rewards and player motivation based on deterministic principles.
- Apply practical design strategies that account for the determined nature of players.
- Navigate the complex ethics of influencing determined minds in game design.
Book Covers

Front Cover

Back Cover
Read 'The Puppet Master'? Help Unravel Its Future.
Your insights are invaluable. Share thoughts, corrections, or suggestions to improve future editions of this guide on designing for players' determined minds and fostering ethical, engaging experiences.
Give Your FeedbackAbout the Founder

Janne Tyni, Ph.D.
This work is part of IndieUXR's ongoing research into ethical game design and player psychology.
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