The Ten Principles for a Good Level Design is one of the most famous talks given at GDC by Dan Taylor and from time to time I like to hear it again while I do some brainless activity around the house.
- Good level design is fun to navigate.
- Good level design does not rely on words.
- Good level design tells what to do but never how to do it.
- Good level design constantly teaches.
- Good level design is surprising.
- Good level design empowers the player.
- Good level design is easy, medium, and hard.
- Good level design is efficient.
- Good level design creates emotion.
- Good level design is driven by mechanics.