
Fun Problems
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.
Latest episodes

Jul 6, 2021 • 1h 12min
# 11 Elegance and Cognitive Load
Today we are talking about how to keep depth in your game without overwhelming players with complexity. We hope you enjoy!
Steam curator page - https://store.steampowered.com/cur.../40748469-Fun-Problems/
Pitch Meeting - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAhKOV3nImQ
Newsletter - https://jellybean.games/funproblems/
Toby Macguire in the MCU (AJ's 3 favourite clips) -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F91UO9xmwo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KR-OSmOgPr4
https://youtu.be/p_fm-Cf8qDc?t=469
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
A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jul 1, 2021 • 50min
#10 - BONUS Game Names
Today we are talking about naming games. Specifically we work through naming an upcoming title! This is a bonus episode so it's a bit shorter and won't follow our usual format. We hope you enjoy!
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
A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12 snips
Jun 15, 2021 • 1h 7min
#9 - Onramping (Designing for the first play)
Jeff Fraser, a designer passionate about crafting enjoyable experiences for new players, and Eduard Matei, a talented musician known for the podcast's theme song, dive into the art of onramping in board games. They explore effective strategies for simplifying rulebooks and component design, enhancing accessibility to create inviting first-play experiences. Topics also include game theory, the importance of clear instructions, and the balance of gameplay mechanics to engage both new and seasoned players seamlessly.

Jun 2, 2021 • 1h 4min
#8 - Board Game Terminology (Part 3)
Join us for an in depth conversation on game design!
Today we are talking about board game terms; what they mean, and why they are important and useful.
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
A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 15, 2021 • 1h 8min
#7 - Board Game Terminology (Part 2)
Join us for an in depth conversation on game design!
Today we are talking about board game terms; what they mean, and why they are important and useful.
Extra Credits
https://www.youtube.com/user/ExtraCreditz
Mechanics, Dynamics, Aesthetics
https://users.cs.northwestern.edu/~hunicke/pubs/MDA.pdf
The Characteristics of Games
https://amzn.to/3v3zc56
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
A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 25, 2021 • 1h 1min
#6 - Board Game Terminology (Part 1)
Join us for an in depth conversation on game design!
Today we are talking about board game terms; what they mean, and why they are important and useful.
Peter's talk on the "shape" of the game:
https://genesisoflegend.podbean.com/e/episode-181-the-shape-of-your-game/
Peter's talk on "blind/cold" playtesting:
https://boardgamedesignlab.com/the-secret-sauce-of-game-design-with-peter-c-hayward/
Output/Input Randomness thread:
https://twitter.com/peterchayward/status/1140663740804861952?s=20
The thread Peter referenced about verb based design:
https://twitter.com/coilingoracle/status/1237931019153674240
Here are all the books we referenced:
1984: https://amzn.to/3sNJh4z
The Princess Bride: https://amzn.to/3dRvGVH
Fifth Business: https://amzn.to/3dP1sTc
The Uploaded: https://amzn.to/2QUUMtH
S.: https://www.amazon.ca/S-Doug-Dorst/dp/0316201642
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
A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 15, 2021 • 1h 10min
#5 - Community Submitted Pitches/Hooks
Join us for an in depth conversation on game design!
Today we are talking about "elevator pitches" that members of the community have sent in. What they get right and where they can improve.
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
A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

8 snips
Feb 25, 2021 • 60min
#4 - Design Space
Explore the vibrant world of game design as the hosts share insights on navigating common pitfalls and the balance between originality and learning. They dive into their relationship with Jelly Bean Games, emphasizing honest reviews and personal stories. Delve into the complexities of game mechanics, including legacy games and the significance of player experience. Discover innovative strategies for layered content and the art of pitching engaging game hooks. The discussion also highlights a thrilling debate about game mechanics and underrated films.

Feb 2, 2021 • 54min
#3 - Common Mistakes New Designers Make (Part 2)
Join us for an in depth conversation on 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. :)
funproblemspodcast@gmail.com
Sen-Foong Lim's talk on feedback.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XW73yLRU14
A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

4 snips
Dec 12, 2020 • 1h 22min
#2 - Common Mistakes New Designers Make (Part 1)
Dive into the fascinating world of game design, where the importance of hooks captivates the conversation. Explore how board game reviewers shape public perception and the delicate balance of their feedback. Discover the pitfalls novice designers often encounter, stressing gameplay simplicity and effective prototyping. The thrill of introducing new players to exciting titles adds to the allure, highlighting the deep connections formed in the board gaming community. Learn why prioritizing quality over individual elements can elevate your design work!