Exception is a game about AI programming. During the game, the player assists the units to defeat their enemies in the virtual world. However, the player needs to control the units by programming instead of controlling them directly.
The game features a unique and simple graphical programming interface that allows players to control and program their units. Instead of directly controlling the units, players must write code using this visual programming system to instruct the units on how to behave and act. This programming-centric gameplay is the core focus of the experience and sets it apart from traditional real-time strategy or action games.
Each level presents players with a challenging puzzle that requires careful programming and problem-solving skills to complete. For example, in one level, players must program their units to defeat a group of enemies, while in another, they must instruct their units to accomplish specific objectives within the virtual world. As the game progresses, the puzzles become increasingly complex, forcing players to develop more sophisticated code and strategies to overcome them.
While players can simply complete the levels, the game encourages them to optimize their code for maximum efficiency. For instance, players can experiment with different programming approaches and try to find the most streamlined and effective solution for each puzzle. This focus on optimization adds an extra layer of depth and challenge to the gameplay, as players strive to create the most elegant and efficient code possible.
The open-ended nature of the programming system allows for a high degree of flexibility in how players approach each level. There are often multiple viable solutions to the puzzles, enabling players to devise their own unique strategies and approaches. This flexibility, combined with the ever-increasing complexity of the puzzles, contributes to the game's replayability, as players can experiment with different programming techniques and try to find new and better ways to overcome the challenges.
Mastering the game's programming mechanics and successfully completing the puzzles can be highly rewarding for players. For example, the sense of accomplishment that comes from writing effective code and seeing it play out in the game world is a key part of the gameplay experience. This feeling of satisfaction is amplified as players progress through the game and tackle increasingly difficult challenges, further reinforcing the appeal of the programming-focused gameplay.