Fun Problems

AJ Brandon and Peter C. Hayward

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.

39 Episodes

#37 - Fidelity
11/10/2024
41:05
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: [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
#36 - Rethinking Rethinking Genres
10/24/2024
52:37
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: [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
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#35 - The Third Type of Coop Games
9/27/2024
1:01:24
In this milestone episode, Peter revisits his popular theory on cooperative games, originally discussed on Gabe Barrett's Board Game Design Lab. He introduces a new type of co-op game that has emerged in recent years, expanding the original framework of limited communication and against-the-game co-ops. Peter and AJ delve into the intricacies of this third type, the cozy cooperative game, characterized by open communication and score-based objectives. They also explore the role of victory points in game design, offering insights for both seasoned designers and enthusiasts. Email: [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! Show Notes The Two Types of Co-op Games (BGDL): https://tinyurl.com/32sf8bhf Virtual Playtesting: https://discord.gg/js3RXMuz
#34 - Unhelpful Advice
9/20/2024
1:25:20
In this episode, we're bringing you "unhelpful" advice on how to navigate the world of game development. Join us as we discuss our experiences, insights, and the quirks of the industry. Discover why having a brand as a designer matters, the significance of player interaction, and the importance of finding joy in the design process. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting, our candid discussion provides a fresh perspective on the Fun Problems of game creation. Email: [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! This episode marks our first-ever video recording, allowing you to see our smiling faces and quirky backgrounds: https://youtu.be/CpqWAOtR5z4
#33 - Play Patterns
8/16/2024
47:21
Today we discuss Play Patterns from a number of different angles. What makes a fun play pattern, how to encourage them and more! Email: [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
#32 - Fundamentals of Game Design and the Magic Circle
7/20/2024
54:33
In this episode, Peter and AJ dive deep into the essence of game design, focusing on the core principles that make a game fun and engaging. They explore the concept of "striving games" versus "accomplishment games" and emphasize the importance of incentivizing fun behaviors in game design. Peter shares his theory that game design is fundamentally about identifying what's compelling and then incentivizing that behavior. They also discuss the Magic Circle, the balance between fun and efficiency, and how to ensure players are having the most enjoyable experience possible. Email: [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
#31 - Foundational Games
6/18/2024
1:14:41
Today we talk about Foundational Games; what games are so foundational to the craft that all game designers need to play them. [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
#30 - Minimum Viable Prototype
5/31/2024
1:13:19
Today we talk about How to get your game to the table FAST! Email: [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
#29 - The absolute best way to Prototype
5/2/2024
1:16:26
Today we talk about The absolute best way to prototype either of has found-component studio! We talk about the strengths (and weaknesses) of the program, and why you should be using it. [email protected] Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Intuitive Rules – Peter solo episode!
1/26/2024
24:37
An unedited, one-take, no intro or outro episode! Enjoy! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Fun Problems

AJ Brandon and Peter C. Hayward

39 Episodes

#37 - Fidelity

#36 - Rethinking Rethinking Genres

#35 - The Third Type of Coop Games

#34 - Unhelpful Advice

#33 - Play Patterns

#32 - Fundamentals of Game Design and the Magic Circle

#31 - Foundational Games

#30 - Minimum Viable Prototype

#29 - The absolute best way to Prototype

Intuitive Rules – Peter solo episode!