Core loops are series of repeated patterns. These patterns are linked to the core behavior of the user while using the product. A core loop has three steps that repeat:
Action - User climbs a wall.
Reward - The wall becomes green.
Expansion - The player level of the user increases.
Investment - The user has a stronger character now.
As the loops repeat, investment emerges, and the user gets invested in the game. Once the user gets invested, they are less likely to leave.
These loops are one of the important elements of gamification. An engaging gamification experience can be created using an engaging core loop consisting of two session loops. These are dual loops.
A single core loop cannot build a high level of engagement, as the actions will be infrequent, so they would not be completed often. This will lead to lesser rewards and thus lesser commitment.
Engagement and investment can be improved with dual loops that consist of two loops:
A smaller loop leads to a smaller reward, whereas the larger loop leads to a larger reward.
Inner loops:
The combination of several inner and fewer outer loops has to be designed for optimal user experience.
Core loops can be of three types
Games that use core loops include Candy Crush, Pokémon Go, Subway Surfer, etc.