The Secret Lives of Games All Systems Brough - 868-HACK
Dec 19, 2025
Shawn Alexander Allen, an independent game developer and nonprofit organizer, joins board game designers Cole and Drew Wehrle to dive into 868-HACK. They explore its unique grid-based gameplay and escalating tension. Cole shares insights on how small integers shape player decisions, while Drew explains the emergent behaviors of enemies reminiscent of classic games. The guests discuss various victory paths and strategic player goals, highlighting how the minimalist aesthetics enhance focus. Secrets within the game are debated, emphasizing player discovery and long-term engagement.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Minimalism Produces Depth
- 868-HACK crystallizes Michael Brough's minimalist roguelike approach: tiny grids, few systems, immense depth.
- Small integers and tight boards create dense, discoverable interactions that reward repeated play.
A Dissertation Fueled By Runs
- Cole Wehrle used 868-HACK during a dissertation summer: he alternated writing paragraphs with runs.
- That summer spun directly into creating Root and shaping his design career.
Character Creation As First Run
- 868-HACK folds character creation into the first level, making early runs act as build decisions.
- Players create emergent builds from available progs rather than explicit character screens.