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Gamasutra - Fewer Mechanics, Better Game  by Dhruin, 2008-04-16
01:04:06  Fewer Mechanics, Better Game is a piece at Gamasutra
written by programmer John Rose (Nihilistic Software) that
asserts focus on a small number of in-game features will result
in a better game.  Some of the examples make immediate sense
(games with tacked-on multiplayer modes) and others much less
(Bioshock being too complex).  Here's the start:  I've heard
from many people that the ideal game is the one that has
everything. It's a game where players are constrained by
nothing. These people believe in a sandbox where their very
imagination is the only boundary. They believe in game with no
limits.  On the surface, this game sounds great. Who wouldn't
want an infinite number of play mechanics? Who wouldn't enjoy
the complete freedom of the ultimate kitchen sink game? But
ironically, a title with too many avenues of influence becomes
less of a game and more like life. This game woul