Let us break it down for you.

• Complexity is when there’s too much going on. Think: complicated systems, extra actions, or mechanics that drag the game.
• Depth is when a game looks simple, but has layers waiting to be explored.

Depth keeps players hooked. Complexity just frustrates them.

Take RPGs, for example. Adding action commands to combat can make battles more engaging — like in Super Mario RPG. But what happens when every fight feels like work?

Games like Keylocker and Ikenfell overcomplicated this idea. Charming? Yes. But players burned out because battles felt exhausting.

Here’s a truth game designers need to hear: more isn’t always better.

How Does Player Experience Suffer?

Here’s where things get real.

When a game is overdesigned, it does one thing: pushes players away.

No one wants:

• Battles that drag on forever
• Controls that feel unnatural
• Systems that overload your brain

Players want to play, not struggle to understand what’s happening.

Let’s look at Metaphor — a JRPG that got it right. The game rewards you for speed. You can finish battles fast while still feeling the depth of its design. No unnecessary fluff.

On the flip side, some RPGs slow down combat just to add “complexity.” They think it makes the game deeper. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t.

What’s the Solution? K.I.S.S.

You’ve probably heard of the K.I.S.S. principle: Keep It Simple, Stupid.

It’s golden advice for game design.

If your game’s systems are confusing, players will quit. If every fight feels like a grind, they’ll move on. Remember, players have thousands of games to choose from — and they decide within minutes if yours is worth their time.

The most successful games — like Balatro — keep things simple on the surface. They hook players with a clear concept, then add depth underneath.

Balancing Creativity and Simplicity

Game design is a balancing act. You want to create something fresh without overwhelming your players.

So, here’s what every game designer needs to keep in mind:

1. Understand your genre. Play as many games as you can — good and bad. Learn what works and what doesn’t.
2. Focus on depth, not complexity. A great game is easy to pick up, but hard to master.
3. Playtest like crazy. Your idea might be brilliant, but if players don’t get it, it doesn’t matter.

At the end of the day, players don’t care how hard you worked. They care about how the game feels. Does it flow? Is it fun? Or does it feel like a chore?

Final Thoughts

Overdesigning might come from a good place — the desire to be different, unique, or ground-breaking. But in reality, it can ruin the player’s experience.

Here’s the key takeaway: Simplicity wins. Depth hooks.

Great games are not about adding more. They’re about doing what works — and doing it really, really well.

So, game designers, ask yourself: “Am I building a fun experience, or am I overcomplicating it?”

Because players can always tell the difference.