

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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 29, 2023 • 31min
#27 - Game State
Today we talk about Game State; how and when to track it, and how to consider it's use in game design.
funproblemspodcast@gmail.com
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.

Jul 9, 2023 • 8min
RIP (Zebras and Horses)
What happened to Fun Problems?

Jul 9, 2022 • 1h 16min
#26 Kids Games and Kid Friendly Games
Today we talk about the difference between kids games and kid friendly games, and the dos and don'ts for both!
Breakout Con: https://breakoutcon.com/
If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :)
funproblemspodcast@gmail.com
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.

Jun 20, 2022 • 56min
#25 That Time You Killed Me Design Diary
Today we talk about the design and development of Peters recent time travel abstract strategy hit "That time you killed me".
If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :)
funproblemspodcast@gmail.com
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.

Apr 17, 2022 • 1h 24min
#24 Alex Horne Interview! The Design of Taskmaster
Today we interview Alex Horne about how he designs the tasks in Taskmaster! There are many insights he has that directly apply to game design.
If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :)
Taskmaster clip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UgSDcHPgCc&t=257s
funproblemspodcast@gmail.com
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.

4 snips
Feb 7, 2022 • 1h 6min
#23 Brain Chemistry Part 2
Eduard Matei, a talented musician and contributor to discussions on brain chemistry, joins the hosts for an intriguing conversation. They unpack how serotonin and oxytocin influence emotional well-being, particularly in gaming. The guests delve into 'hero moments' and the dynamics of cooperative play, exploring how these experiences foster trust and bonding. Personal gaming strategies are shared alongside the emotional impacts of gameplay, revealing how brain chemistry shapes our satisfaction and enjoyment in games.

Dec 17, 2021 • 31min
#22 BONUS Inhuman Conditions
Today we have a very special episode where we play Inhuman Conditions, AJ's favourite game!!
If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :)
funproblemspodcast@gmail.com
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.

6 snips
Dec 7, 2021 • 1h 27min
#21 Robotopia Design and Development Lessons
Today we talk about how Robotopia was designed and developed, and all the lessons Peter learned along the way!
If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :)
funproblemspodcast@gmail.com
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.

17 snips
Nov 15, 2021 • 59min
#20 Brain Chemistry, The Bedrock of Fun (Part 1)
Delve into the fascinating world of brain chemistry and how it influences our perception of fun! Discover the role of dopamine in gaming and its impact on player engagement. The hosts discuss the power of anticipation and reward systems, illustrating how they enhance enjoyment. Learn about the psychology of rituals and their connection to dopamine release, as well as insights into the strategic design of board games. Plus, explore the allure of unpredictable rewards, drawing parallels between gaming and real-life decision-making.

23 snips
Nov 2, 2021 • 1h 28min
#19 Structure VS Content
Dive into the fascinating world of game design as the hosts explore the crucial balance between structure and content. They discuss how clear rules are foundational before introducing themes using engaging examples. The importance of maintaining structural integrity over complex themes is highlighted with games like Santorini and Terraforming Mars. The conversations touch upon the challenges of marketing games while preserving artistry, and the intricate relationship between mechanics and player experience in both traditional and puzzle games.