1a. What Mechanics would you like to use for a game with a theme that revolves around being the size of a nanometer?
The first thing I thought of reading this was Little Nightmares for some reason, and then I kind of went with the aspect of playing as something so little and how it makes you have to play sort of cautiously. So, I think that game piece movement, and movement from area to area would be something I’d want to explore in terms of finding a way to incorporate that caution
1b. Who are you making games for?
Most of my ideas stem from things I myself enjoy, or find interesting. So, when I make a game I’d say its targeted at like-minded people.
1c. Who will be your play testers outside of class?
My roommate and my brother primarily. Potentially, some of my other classmates/friends as well.
2a. Can you think of a game you were able to play without referring to the rules?
Pictionary, Headbandz, War, Blackjack. These were all games that were easy for me to just jump in and play.
2b. How do you define what a game is?
To me, a game is a structured form of immersive entertainment.
2c. What features can make your games more intuitive?
I think that having a reason behind the games design is important , and not just creating game pieces mindlessly or because you “need” them. The pieces of the game should have a purpose that is easy and clear to see when you view them. They should also fit into the game as a whole.
3a. What was your gateway game? What do you play to introduce others to gaming?
Spoons. I mean I played all kinds of video games before, and boardgames here and there as a kid, but I can remember Spoons as being one of the first games I got truly fascinated with. I always wanted to play it, and I always enjoyed it.
3b. What features do gateway games share?
- They’re easy to learn/play
- They have a theme that can appeal to a wide variety of people.
- They’re simple
- They include interaction between players
- They are not solely based on skill
- They aren’t overly time-consuming, but also aren’t too short. They hit the sweet spot.
- They have an original aspect to them, something unique
- They are easy/fun to replay
4. What are the 10 beautiful mechanics and what should you aim for with your own?
- Kingmakers Noblesse Oblige
- BattleTech’s Heat
- Set’s Set-Making
- Magic’s Card Tapping
- Battle Cattle’s Cow Tipping Rule
- xXxenophile’s Popping
- Bohnanza’s Hand Order Rule
- Mississippi Queen’s Paddlewheels
- Time’s Up!’s Communicationn Breakdown
- Dominions Constant Shuffling
I should aim to have a game mechanic that makes the game enjoyable. Something that doesn’t feel tedious, but fun and works to elevate the game as a whole.
5. How does luck and strategy factor into game play?
Both Luck and Strategy are key factors in playing and winning a game. While playing with strategy comes from having a deeper understanding and knowledge of the game, it is still not always a surefire way to win. This is because luck exists randomly. It is a crucial part of gameplay that can either boost a player to a win, or cause their downfall. Luck is also what helps keep the game interesting, it’s an unpredictable lement and it helps to ensure different outcomes.