At the recent Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2025, industry veteran Joe Morrissey presented valuable insights on designing effective in-game collectibles. With a portfolio that includes titles like Diablo 2 and 3, InFamous 1 and 2, and Ghost of Tsushima, Morrissey’s expertise offers a deep dive into what makes collectibles appealing to players. This discussion not only highlighted successful strategies but also critiqued less effective approaches, providing a comprehensive overview for game developers.
In past discussions about game collectibles, the focus often leaned towards quantity over quality, leading to player frustration. Morrissey’s approach emphasizes quality and meaningful integration within the game world, contrasting with previous trends where collectibles were sometimes an afterthought. This shift aims to enhance player engagement and satisfaction by ensuring that each collectible serves a purpose beyond mere accumulation.
How Can Discoverability Enhance Collectibles?
Morrissey emphasized the importance of “discoverability,” stating,
“The player asking the question, ‘how do I find this collectible?'”
Effective methods include environmental scanning and visual cues, as seen in Ghost of Tsushima’s use of black smoke and fireflies to guide players. These techniques encourage exploration without making players feel lost or overwhelmed.
What Role Do Rewards Play in Collectible Design?
Reward systems are crucial for maintaining player interest. Morrissey highlighted the example of Crackdown’s jump orbs, where collecting orbs enhances the player’s abilities, allowing access to previously unreachable items. This creates a motivating feedback loop that encourages continued exploration and collection.
How Does Flavor Elevate Ordinary Collectibles?
Adding flavor through worldbuilding and fictional justification transforms standard collectibles into meaningful elements within the game. Morrissey cited the backpacks in Spider-Man games, which come with backstories that deepen the narrative. This attachment ensures that collectibles are not just items to gather but parts of the story that enhance the overall gaming experience.
Crafting engaging collectibles requires a balance of discoverability, rewarding systems, and enriched storytelling. By integrating these elements thoughtfully, developers can create collectibles that enhance gameplay and narrative depth. Morrissey’s insights provide a roadmap for achieving this balance, encouraging developers to prioritize quality and player experience in their collectible designs.
