Greg Karber, creator of the hit puzzle game Murdle, discusses balancing game mechanics and storytelling, influences on game creation, and monetization strategies. He shares the journey from a simple puzzle to a bestselling book series and daily online game. Topics include evolving chess gameplay, creating viral puzzle games, and avoiding personal glorification in game development.
Murdle's book form immerses readers in a narrative world, while the online game offers daily interactive puzzles.
Greg draws game inspiration from classic mysteries and focuses on rich storytelling to engage players.
Greg prioritizes personal connections in game development, avoiding intrusive ads for a community-focused experience.
Deep dives
The Difference Between the Online Game and the Book Form
In the Myrtle series, the book form offers a unique storytelling experience with a narrative that runs through the book. Each puzzle book is extensively tested, balanced, and presents distinct puzzles that immerse the reader in a coherent story world. On the other hand, the online game functions as a daily interactive activity similar to mini crosswords or Sudoku, devoid of an overarching story arc. While both versions showcase interesting characters, locations, and compelling worlds, the book form delves deeper into narrative intricacies and character development.
Influences and Precursors in Game Creation
Greg's game creation process is notably influenced by non-game inspirations such as classic golden age mysteries, locked room mysteries, and logic puzzles. Drawing from literary sources and unique narrative elements, Greg seeks to infuse his games with rich storytelling features that engage players beyond mere puzzle-solving. By integrating narrative depth and creative inspiration from diverse sources, Greg crafts games that offer more than just gameplay, resonating with a broader audience seeking immersive and intellectually stimulating experiences.
Philosophy on Game Development and Website Monetization
Greg's philosophy on game development emphasizes creating projects for specific individuals rather than mass market appeal. By prioritizing personal connections and meaningful engagement over broad commercial success, Greg aims to maintain the purity and innocence of his projects like Myrtle without disrupting user experiences through intrusive advertising. His approach reflects a reverence for the old internet charm where websites focus on community-building and creative expression rather than aggressive monetization tactics.
Process of Algorithmically-Generated Puzzles in Myrtle
The algorithmic generation of Myrtle puzzles involves a meticulous process starting with random selection of suspects, weapons, and locations based on the date as a seed. It progresses through creating unique statements and clues, ensuring a single solution by removing redundant clues, and infusing narrative elements for engaging gameplay. Throughout the development, emphasis is placed on maintaining logical solvability while incorporating compelling storytelling components to enhance the puzzle-solving experience.
Maintaining the Integrity of the Myrtle Experience
Greg's commitment to preserving the integrity and essence of the Myrtle experience extends to avoiding disruptive elements like ads on the website. By avoiding intrusive advertising and focusing on promoting the Myrtle series and associated products organically, Greg aims to cultivate a sense of community and authenticity in the digital space. This deliberate choice reflects Greg's dedication to creating a platform that remains faithful to its core values and enhances user engagement beyond commercial gains.
Greg Karber is the creator of the hit murder mystery puzzle game Murdle. Greg shares the fascinating journey of Murdle's creation, from a simple puzzle made for a friend to a bestselling book series and popular daily online game.
We dive into Greg's influences, how he monetizes Murdle, and the balance between game mechanics and storytelling.
