design-the-core-loop

name	design-the-core-loop
description	Design the second-to-second and session-to-session core loop before features, since retention lives there. Reach for this at the start of design.

Skill: Design the core loop

Features layered on a weak loop don't save it.

Step 1 — Define the loop

The moment-to-moment action and its reward (§3 #2).

Step 2 — Add the session loop

What brings the player back this session and next.

Step 3 — Layer the meta

Progression and meta on top of a proven loop.

Step 4 — Test for retention

Validate the loop holds attention before scaling.

Output

A core-loop and session-loop design with the retention hooks and a meta layer.