Action-adventure has been a top genre for decades, yet its biggest titles are built around combat. So how can we replace it and still keep players engaged? This session explores that question through our work on Tidewind, a non-violent action-adventure about wonder, discovery and connection.

Using a transformation framework, we look at what happens in the story, how the game evolves mechanically, and what shifts in the player's mind, at what combat does in each of these, and at how other mechanics can do the same.

Whether you design action-adventure games or any other kind of game, come and rethink what can drive your players forward.