Analyzing the Concept of "Thinking Power"

Hello everyone. With a bit of free time leading up to the end of the year, I've decided to update my Note after quite a while. It's hard to believe that almost 10 years have passed since I started my current job. Over the years, I've conceived and created various games. Naturally, when creating a game, you think. This process of thinking and then outputting those thoughts is what we call design. Designing a game is termed game design. During this process, there's a crucial ability that comes into play: "thinking power". I have some insights about this ability, which I'd like to share in this article.
I perceive "thinking power" as being composed of instantaneous power, repertoire, and stamina.

This headline pretty much says it all. But let me delve deeper into each component. I believe that thinking, like physical activity, is accompanied by certain concepts. Broadly, I've categorized them into three. While they could be further differentiated, I find that three categories are easier to remember.

1. Instantaneous Power - This refers to the combined abilities of ideation, combinatory skills, inspiration, and decision-making.

2. Repertoire - This encompasses input, experiences, memory, aesthetic sense, values, and the ability to systematize.

3. Stamina - The physical and mental energy required to utilize the above two.

In game creation, all three are indispensable. Each is of paramount importance. Let's delve into each.

1. Instantaneous Power: It's often said that inspirations and ideas come suddenly. Yet, they don't always come when you expect them to. There are books on how to generate ideas, so I'd recommend reading them. This is the ability that most often appears "genius" to others. In RPG terms, it might equate to the strength of a magical attack or the ability to use complex spells. However, I'd argue that those who are frequently inspired have worked hard to cultivate that state of mind. It's a sort of positive karma. For me, these insights often come during baths, walks, or moments of relaxation. The trick, it seems, is to alternate between states of tension and relaxation.

2. Repertoire: Just as crucial as learning is the ability to remember. In terms of RPGs, it's akin to the number of spells one can recall and use. Both acquisition and retention are essential. Experience is vital, but equally important is the ability to remember past events. Daily input, be it through reading or other forms, is as crucial as retaining experiences, making them a part of oneself, which eventually shapes one's values.

3. Stamina in Thinking: Thinking, like physical activity, requires energy. It's taxing, sometimes leading to symptoms like psychogenic fever. In RPG terms, think of it as MP (Magic Points), separate from HP (Health Points). No matter how powerful your magic is, if you have low MP, you'll tire quickly. Common symptoms of a lack of thinking stamina include superficial thinking, using others' ideas without deep understanding, procrastination, and forgetfulness. Scientifically, there's a limit to the number of decisions one can make in a day. It might be beneficial to be mindful of where you spend your "MP" daily.

As for how to develop these abilities:
It might sound cliché, but it's all about practice. Start by emulating those who possess the skills you desire. Once you've made that a habit, it becomes second nature. For me, I've always enjoyed studying, and my job has honed my skills, especially in terms of instantaneous power. Other aids include my past blogging and playing games like Pikmin, which I believe tremendously helped in honing my thinking skills.

For the other abilities, I believe my academic pursuits laid a solid foundation. These basics truly come into play once you enter the working world. For students reading this, consider your studies an investment in your future. It's all cumulative, so don't slack off.
This article turned out longer than I anticipated, so I'll wrap it up here. Thank you for reading.