Ludology

Join Hawke Robinson, a registered recreational therapist and the mind behind RPG Therapeutics, as he shares his innovative approach to using role-playing games in therapy. He reveals how RPGs foster empathy and personal growth in at-risk youth and adults. With 40+ years of experience, Hawke discusses transformative educational sessions and the impact of creative programs on social skills. Delve into the dynamics of group play and how structured gaming can challenge misconceptions about mental health, highlighting RPGs’ potential for positive change.

Dive into the fascinating evolution of information in gaming from traditional methods to interactive tutorials that boost understanding. Discover how information theory revolutionizes communication in games, showcasing Claude Shannon's influence on data transmission. Learn why it's essential to engage more deeply with game mechanics beyond simple rulebooks.

Emma and Gil are joined by Justin Gary, a renowned designer of Ascension and Shards of Infinity and former Magic: The Gathering champion. They dive into the unique world of card-based strategy games, discussing the delicate balance of gameplay and the excitement of expansions. Justin shares insights into player dynamics, the challenges of game design, and the joys of community in pursuing passion projects. Amusingly, they even touch on in-game marriage proposals—revealing just how personal gaming experiences can be!

Dive into the excitement of Gen Con 2019 with lively discussions on game design and the vibrant convention atmosphere. Discover strategies for effective game pitching and the importance of testing in diverse environments. The speakers share personal anecdotes about game demos, surprising sales trends, and the thrill of showcasing new titles. Engage in insightful conversations around playtesting and community interaction, emphasizing the significance of player feedback and unique gameplay moments.

In this engaging discussion, game designer Tom Lehmann shares insights into the intricacies of game arcs and how they compare to traditional narratives like Romeo & Juliet. He highlights the importance of inflection points in gameplay, which create unexpected shifts in dynamics. Tom draws fascinating parallels between game design and contra dancing, showcasing creativity within structured frameworks. The conversation also touches on long-term gaming experiences and the potential for games to inspire social change.

Delve into the intriguing world of psychological momentum in sports, examining how significant defensive plays shape game dynamics. Discover how our brains react to thoughts of punishing rule-breakers, with fascinating insights from neuroimaging studies. Lastly, explore the Prisoner's Dilemma and how its framing can dramatically alter player decisions and strategies, shedding light on the complex interplay between psychology and game design.

Explore the various ways board games can end and how these conclusions shape player experiences. Delve into endgame dynamics and the psychological impact of different conditions, like player elimination. Discover the strategic intricacies of two-player games and how victory conditions influence choices. Examine the role of timers and game mechanics, showcasing their effects on gameplay flow. Plus, learn about asymmetric win conditions in diverse board games and the importance of impactful game endings.

Scott covers the history of the seminal board game Dune, its legal tangles with its IP, and its retheming as Rex: Final Days of an Empire.

Daniel Solis, a seasoned graphic and game designer, dives into the essentials of graphic design for board games. He emphasizes the critical balance between aesthetics and functionality, particularly in prototypes. Daniel shares valuable resources like Blambot and Game Icons for design assets, highlighting the importance of clarity in mechanics. He introduces his innovative Bird Bucks project, a creative twist on traditional game currency. The conversation also touches on the impact of puns in game titles and the nuances of game publishing in today's market.

Micha Le Bourhis, project manager at Asmodee Research, dives into the fascinating world of scientific studies surrounding board games. He shares insights on how the Gaming Lab program promotes collaboration between gaming and research. The discussion highlights grants available for various research initiatives exploring board games' societal impacts, from Alzheimer's studies to educational projects. Learn about the global push for research funding and the excitement building for educational workshops at GenCon. This is a must-listen for game enthusiasts!