Key Points

• The appeal of exploration vs. the thrill of high-stakes adventure: How do the experiences of navigating unfamiliar terrain on foot and exploring a dangerous, alien world on the back of a massive creature compare in terms of emotional resonance and overall excitement?r
• The role of agency and choice in determining fun: To what extent is the fun derived from an experience influenced by the player's ability to make choices and shape their own path, versus the thrill of being swept up in a high-stakes, high-risk environment?r
• The intersection of game design and player psychology: How do game developers balance the need for exploration and agency with the desire to create tension and excitement through high-stakes gameplay mechanics?