Would Lode Runner clones mean arrow keys are now “in”?

I juts posted about cloning, and I received two interesting links do download two games: Snowy Treasure Hunter 3 and Super Granny 4. They are both clones of the classic Lode Runner games. Very well made games, apparently focused on casual/kids market.

What pitches me about those is the arrow keys control for the user. We know the PopCap maximum: where if the game doesn’t have a simple enough mechanics to be played entirely with the mouse and its left button, so the game design is not simple enough. But, like those two games, people taking chances on different control schema.

I agree with PopCap, but I don’t see it as a dogma – I believe that arrow keys could be used on casual games, as well as SPACE key. Even considering the average casual player demographics are not core computer users, people are not stupid – they can get used to simple controls on keyboard. However, to do use keyboard control on casual titles, you must:

1. Be sure game needs arrows – Make the game worthy of the extra time players not used to keyboard control will have to spend until getting it. Have absolutely sure the keyboard control really adds up to the game overall experience, and the same could not be accomplished with any mouse control workaround
2. Teach players – Explains it right in the first game screen – casual players are all too used to use mouse, so you must make it clear it won’t be used.
3. Beware the down arrow – Try to focus on the left and right arrow, with some function for the up arrow. Know that the down arrow is the most difficult to use when your middle finger is naturally resting near the up key when using left and right arrow keys. Just ask someone you know that doesn’t use computer too much to play with all arrow keys and watch closely.