Decision Space Can Games Be Mean?
Mar 19, 2025
The hosts dive into the intriguing concept of 'mean' games, debating whether aggressive strategies reflect game flaws or player choices. They share personal anecdotes revealing the complex emotional responses players have during intense gameplay. The discussion includes examples like Catan and Barrage, analyzing how game mechanics foster feelings of frustration and unfairness. The balance between competition and camaraderie is explored, highlighting the nuanced dynamics of player interactions that can turn friendly competition into something more cutthroat.
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Player vs. Game Meanness
- "Meanness" in games comes from player-to-player interaction disrupting plans.
- Games themselves can be brutal, but that's separate from player-driven meanness.
Miles' Daughter's "Mean" Play
- Miles's daughter repeatedly blocked him in a tile-laying game, despite it not helping her win.
- Miles used this as a teaching moment about playing within the spirit of the game.
Tolerance for Meanness
- Different players have different tolerances for "meanness" in games.
- Even in groups that enjoy aggressive play, some actions might still feel wrong.