# How to study a level

In a **case study**, an author conducts an analysis of a playable level or location. 

A good case study identifies design strengths and weaknesses, considers typical player behavior, and compares it to other levels and games. These critical design essays demonstrate how to apply a lot of concepts from the [Process](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process/overview) section of this book.

    *For more on our recommended methodology, see* [*Research*](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process/preproduction/research)*.*

{% hint style="warning" %}
This section is underdeveloped because right now we're focusing on finishing [**Book 1, Process**](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process).
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<figure><img src="https://1666186240-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-LtVT8pJjInrrHVCovzy%2Fuploads%2F71IOKqvDrGKYrwOpgaAA%2FLDB_DarkSouls_UndeadBurgDiagram1_path1-2.jpg?alt=media&#x26;token=12284585-6d1e-4d0c-9e37-223372bf79f8" alt=""><figcaption><p>encounter design analysis of first area in Undead Burg from Dark Souls, see full study: <a href="sp/undead-burg">Undead Burg (Dark Souls 1)</a></p></figcaption></figure>

## Single player studies

Analysis of various single player maps, usually highlighting [pacing](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process/preproduction/pacing), [storytelling](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process/env-art/storytelling), and [encounter design](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process/combat/encounter).

{% content-ref url="sp" %}
[sp](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/studies/sp)
{% endcontent-ref %}

## Multiplayer studies

Analysis for multiplayer maps and spaces, usually highlighting [layouts](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process/layout), [flow](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process/layout/flow), and [map balance](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/process/combat/balance).

{% content-ref url="mp" %}
[mp](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/studies/mp)
{% endcontent-ref %}

## Real world

Analyzing real world ("IRL") locations and structures from a level design perspective.

{% content-ref url="irl" %}
[irl](https://book.leveldesignbook.com/studies/irl)
{% endcontent-ref %}