Games that includes various difficulty modes tend to repeat the same gameplay experience for every mode with the sole difference being the values of some of the parameters of the difficulty setting such as enemy hit points and damage taken by the player. However, a unique game experience can be created for every higher difficulty mode to incentivize the player to try out their skills and witness new game content not available in the easier modes. By adding variety to the encounters the player faces and the rewards they gain on these modes, the player essentially plays a new game as it is sometimes impossible to have an advantage by means of previous playthroughs on an easier mode.
Demonstrative Examples[]
Ninja Gaiden: Sigma
In Ninja Gaiden: Sigma, the player has to alter their strategy when fighting bosses on higher difficulties as they now spawn two enemy companions. The player may also venture into previous areas to encounter new enemies or special weapons to gain an advantage in combat. The hard mode of Ninja Gaiden: Sigma also offers two unique boss fights with characters that are only alluded to in the easier difficulties.
Guild Wars 2
Guild Wars 2 follows a similar system, which raises the difficulty of certain boss or event encounters based on the number of players participating in it. With the higher number of people, the mechanics of the boss or events tend to change making it more difficult or challenging for the players present.
Diablo III
Diablo III does an excellent job of crafting a unique gameplay experience for higher difficulties because not only do enemies have more health and do more damage, but the player rewards are also much better. For example, players can gain a huge boost in experience if they play in higher difficulties. The designers also include additional rewards such as more gold dropped by slain monsters and an increase in chance of finding unique and rare items. All of these bonuses give the player an incentive to work towards higher difficulties so they have a higher chance of being rewarded the items they want. This keeps players coming back month after month to obtain better loot and keeps the gameplay experience fresh because of the challenge.
