Show the Lock Before the Key
The lock-and-key puzzle is a popular pattern in video games. The player wants to bypass an obstacle but must first acquire something that allows them to do so, whether a literal
Foreshadowing
Unpleasant surprises can make gameplay feel arbitrary and unfair. Warning players in advance about events that may negatively impact them reduces frustration and restores player agency.
Foreshadowing Makes Event Cards Feel Fair
Event cards can cause frustration if they feel too unpredictable. To avoid players feeling arbitrarily rewarded or punished, an event needs enough foreshadowing to give them an idea of what to expect. There
Applying Sanderson's Laws to Board Game Design
Brandon Sanderson, an author famous for his magic systems, came up with three laws for writing a magic system. They are, in order:
1. Your ability to solve problems with magic is proportional
Why Asymmetric Games Still Need Symmetric Systems
Interactivity in tabletop games can be controversial. Some people think it is an essential component of the experience, while others don't mind multiplayer solitaire. Interactivity encourages players to see the game
Memory and Push-Your-Luck Mechanics Pair Perfectly
Both push-your-luck and memory mechanics have weaknesses that can lead to negative experiences. In push-your-luck games, an unlucky run can end much earlier than expected, leading to a bust