"This book explores the theory and practice of game design and development as a wider, culturally disruptive medium. It outlines how changing audiences, digital distribution, and new business models are disrupting independent game development and forcing many developers to reexamine existing design and development processes. Using practical case studies and empirical experience, the core aim of the book is to empower game studios, from start-ups to established companies, to create a sustainable, repeatable, and scalable design and development process that maximizes the chances of success in the marketplace, which can construct entertaining, simultaneous, persistent social virtual worlds for gamers" -- Provided by publisher.