How do you describe the experience of entertainment in a detailed yet useful way? I begin by listing the fundamental elements. I refer to each of these as an aspect of the entertainment. For example, the four aspects of the standard role-playing game I describe are action, genre mood, social atmosphere, and thinking.

An aspect can be described in terms of amusement. These amusements are why players enjoy that aspect. More to the point, amusements are understandable ways that the aspect enters the game. For example, action is amusing because it has danger, stunts, and captivating descriptions.

Beyond amusements, there are two things to consider: the rules of play for that amusement and the emotions it triggers for the purpose of weaving a plot.