gameimposed

Gameimposed refers to a situation in video games where the game's design or mechanics create a specific, often unavoidable, experience or limitation for the player, regardless of their individual skill or intent. This can manifest in various ways, such as a predetermined story path that cannot be altered, a gameplay mechanic that forces a certain playstyle, or an environmental obstacle that cannot be bypassed through cleverness. The term suggests that the player's freedom of choice or expression is constrained by the game's inherent structure.

For example, a linear narrative game where the player must follow a strict sequence of events is gameimposed. Similarly, a puzzle game with a single, fixed solution that the player must discover is also gameimposed. The concept often arises in discussions about player agency and the degree to which players can influence or diverge from the intended game experience. While some gameimposed elements are considered essential for delivering a cohesive story or a well-defined challenge, others can be perceived as restrictive or frustrating if they limit player creativity or lead to a feeling of being railroaded. The balance between guiding the player and allowing for emergent gameplay is a key consideration in game design.