Subtraction - Games

Subtraction in game design refers to the deliberate removal of elements to enhance gameplay. This minimalist approach strips away excess mechanics, visuals, or narrative layers, forcing players to focus on core interactions. It can create tension through scarcity, symbolize loss in storytelling, or refine mechanics for clarity. By subtracting complexity, designers often achieve greater depth, encouraging player creativity within constrained systems. This concept challenges the industry's tendency toward feature bloat, proving that less can indeed be more in creating memorable, impactful experiences.