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Glossary Glossary
local area network (LAN) party: Players
connect to a single local computer network to
play with or against each other. (5)
localization: Adapting a game for a different
language, region, or culture. (3)
logic maze: Simple maze with some
additional rule to increase the diffi culty. (7)
logic puzzle: Player applies reasoning to
determine the correct answer. (7)
logic statement: Consists of a possible
condition and subsequent actions; using these
seven common operators: IF, THEN, AND, OR,
NOT, NOR,
ELSE.
(12)
logic-grid puzzle: Player is given certain clues
to the solution, which the player then organizes
into a grid to determine the solution. (7)
looping: Sound or animation restarts at the
end of playing. (8)
lossless compression algorithm: Compresses
the image and keeps perfect clarity when
uncompressed; the fi le size may be larger
than the same image compressed with the
lossy compression algorithm; also called
losslessly compression algorithm. (10)
lossy compression algorithm: Compresses
the image, but does not keep perfect image
clarity. (10)
low-level computer language: Abstract
and does not contain words and symbols
similar to everyday spoken and written
languages. (12)
M M
machine language: Instruction set that
is interpreted by the computer’s central
processing unit (CPU); also called machine
code. (12)
magic circle: How the rules and game
environment create structured play. (1)
main character: In-game character around
which the entire game revolves. (2)
maneuvering: Positioning resources at their
most needed or benefi cial location. (6)
map making: Simulation system is rendered
in realistic form. (13)
mapping: Process of determining how a
material is positioned on an object. (10)
markerless mocap: Does not require a sensor
marker worn by the actor. (11)
massively multiplayer online game (MMO):
Game with thousands of real people playing
at the same time; each person uses his or her
own avatar and interacts with other players as
the game is played online. (2)
material: Image stretched over the model to
make it look as if it is made of wood, plastic,
skin, or any other material. (10)
matter: What makes up a physical object. (11)
mechanical puzzle: Solved by physically
linking, unlinking, or maneuvering pieces. (7)
mechanics: Technical aspects of creating the
objects and animation. (11)
Medieval: Refers to the Middle Ages, the
historical time period from about 400 AD to
about 1400 AD. (9)
mental acuity: Measure of focus, memory,
and concentration. (4)
mentor: Character who teaches moral lessons
and skills to the hero and directs the hero on
the quest. (2)
mesh: Combination of four or more polygons
connected to make one piece. (10)
metapuzzle: Single, large puzzle made up of
smaller puzzles. (7)
methodology: General rules or principles on
how a character does things. (2)
methods: Actions or verbs used in syntax. (12)
metrics: Measureable parameters that can be
analyzed for performance and behavior. (6)
microphone: Device that detects sounds,