Fun Problems

By: AJ Brandon and Peter C. Hayward
  • Summary

  • Board game design is a deep and often challenging pursuit. We explore all aspects of game design and the fun problems (and solutions) that come with it.
    Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
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Episodes
  • #38 - Sell Sheets (Industry Talk)
    Nov 14 2024

    Join hosts Peter C. Hayward and AJ Brandon as they delve into the art of creating effective sell sheets for board games. This episode steps away from the usual design principles to tackle an essential aspect of game publishing.

    Using real examples from Peter's own collection of sell sheets, they illustrate what works and what doesn't, offering practical tips for creating a sell sheet that effectively communicates the essence of your game.

    Back of Boxes: https://tinyurl.com/y7jtsrr3

    Sell sheets: https://imgur.com/a/fE3c14D

    Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me

    Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!

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    36 mins
  • #37 - Fidelity
    Nov 10 2024

    In this episode, we delve into the importance of numbers and their impact on gameplay. We explore how the concept of fidelity, or granularity, influences the design and experience of both board games and video games.

    Our discussion kicks off with a comparison between games like Magic: The Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh!, highlighting how different number systems create unique player experiences. We also examine the role of numbers in scoring systems, using examples like Lost Cities, and how small changes can significantly affect gameplay.

    We touch on the concept of "knobs" in game design, which allow designers to tweak various elements such as cost, attack, health, and abilities, to create a balanced and engaging game. The conversation expands to the advantages and challenges of low and high fidelity games, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful number management to avoid cognitive overload for players.

    The episode also explores video game adaptations of board games, like Slay the Spire, and how they manage numbers to maintain balance and excitement. We conclude with insights into the strategic planning required in resource management games and the significance of ensuring manageable numbers for players.

    Removing Math From Games: https://boardgamedesignlab.com/removing-math-from-games-with-dan-peterson/

    Robotopia is now on Kickstarter! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bean-games/robotopia-a-strategic-eurogame-of-robot-revolutionaries?ref=89xwyv

    Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me

    Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!

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    41 mins
  • #36 - Rethinking Rethinking Genres
    Oct 24 2024

    Peter and AJ explore the concept of genre within board games, comparing it to the well-defined genres found in films and novels. They discuss the challenges of applying traditional genre theory to board games, which often rely on mechanisms rather than genres to define them.

    The conversation touches on the importance of genre in other media, highlighting how it helps creators meet audience expectations and allows consumers to find similar content they might enjoy. Peter and AJ examine how board games currently lack clear genre definitions and the impact this has on both designers and players.

    Show Notes

    Robotopia is now live on Kickstarter! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bean-games/robotopia-a-strategic-eurogame-of-robot-revolutionaries?ref=89xwyv

    For the one person who cares; AJ's look alike is Mathew Gray Gubler.

    Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me

    Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!

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    53 mins

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