Paper-based game results and observations:

Our team of two modified the “Boxes” game where the objective is to create boxes from a dot grid, racking up combos in order to defeat your opponent. Our change was simple: allow players to create diagonal lines between dots and have scoring based on triangles rather than squares. This simple change made for twice as many possibilities and opportunities for scoring. The meta-game involves trapping your opponents into situations where they will be forced to set you up for victory. The ability to create diagonal lines creates an environment where these traps can be set more frequently, thus creating a more aggressive style of play.

Next I tried out a variant of Hangman. This version included a life system. Every time you chose an incorrect letter, you lost a life. Lose all of them and, no matter your Hangman’s status, you lose. Guess correctly and you will gain lives. This change in the rule-set creates a dynamic of “momentum” that the game did not have prior to the change. If you begin guessing incorrectly, you will lose more quickly than normal. If you begin guessing correctly and gain more lives, then you are able to take more risks. An interesting dynamic, to be sure.

~Danny