Fun Problems (AJ Brandon and Peter C. Hayward)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Fun Problems
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Feb 2021 | #4 - Design Space | 00:59:32 | |
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. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Noah "Angels" clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbkjkJzREd4 A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 29 Jul 2023 | #27 - Game State | 00:30:43 | |
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. | |||
| 07 Feb 2022 | #23 Brain Chemistry Part 2 | 01:06:15 | |
Today we talk about how Serotonin and Oxytocin work, and how to make designs maximize these feel good chemicals! 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 Discord stream server link; https://discord.gg/P584nGEU 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. | |||
| 31 May 2024 | #30 - Minimum Viable Prototype | 01:13:19 | |
Today we talk about How to get your game to the table FAST! Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me
Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 12 Dec 2020 | #2 - Common Mistakes New Designers Make (Part 1) | 01:22:26 | |
Join us for an in depth conversation on game design! Here is our email. Send us your hooks to review, ask us a fun question, or email us if you are just feeling a little lonely. :) Shut up and sit down playing a megagame; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hN71v9H_gg8 Shut up and sit down; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86pIbGeBJPQ Board Game Design Lab featuring Peter talking about the two types of co-ops (It’s a must listen to!-AJ) https://www.boardgamedesignlab.com/the-two-types-of-cooperative-games-with-peter-hayward/ So Very Wrong about Games (A.J.’s favourite board game reviewers) https://www.stitcher.com/show/so-very-wrong-about-games A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 18 Oct 2021 | #18 Hook, Craft, Spirit (Part 2) | 00:43:48 | |
Today we talk about Peters new model for creative endeavors IN PERSON! Hook is what catches an audiences interest, craft is the quality of their experience, and spirit is what stays with them afterwards. Join us for a deep dive on this exciting new lens! 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. | |||
| 09 Jul 2023 | RIP (Zebras and Horses) | 00:07:36 | |
What happened to Fun Problems? | |||
| 17 Apr 2022 | #24 Alex Horne Interview! The Design of Taskmaster | 01:24:27 | |
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. | |||
| 15 Nov 2021 | #20 Brain Chemistry, The Bedrock of Fun (Part 1) | 00:59:29 | |
Today we talk about how to generate dopamine, and how it affects us! What we call "fun" is just the release of chemicals in the brain, so let's dig deep today! Join us for a deep dive on this exciting new lens! 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 Eric Martins BGG post: https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/124590/choice-and-bias-why-new-games-top-bgg-rankings Peter's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/peterchayward Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me AJ's sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-knzJeDExmxYs7rpfq7lGYhxuMsBiNxz_X4pRZdrHPY/edit?usp=sharing Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 06 Jul 2021 | # 11 Elegance and Cognitive Load | 01:12:05 | |
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. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 01 Jul 2021 | #10 - BONUS Game Names | 00:49:34 | |
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. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 16 Aug 2021 | #14 Board Game Strengths and Weaknesses (of the medium) | 01:13:52 | |
Today we are talking about the strengths and weaknesses of the format/medium of board games, when compared to video games, RPGs, movies, etc. There are some areas that board games can take great advantage of, and others that you should be wary of when designing. Jennifer's Twitter thread; https://twitter.com/Gaohmee/status/1396874873859756032 Peter's Sudoku; http://peterchayward.com/sudoku.html If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Steam curator page - https://store.steampowered.com/cur.../40748469-Fun-Problems/ A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 15 May 2021 | #7 - Board Game Terminology (Part 2) | 01:07:37 | |
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. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 17 Dec 2021 | #22 BONUS Inhuman Conditions | 00:30:30 | |
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. | |||
| 02 Jun 2021 | #8 - Board Game Terminology (Part 3) | 01:04:04 | |
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. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 02 May 2024 | #29 - The absolute best way to Prototype | 01:16:26 | |
Today we talk about The absolute best way to prototype either of has found-component studio! We talk about the strengths (and weaknesses) of the program, and why you should be using it. 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. | |||
| 02 Sep 2021 | #15 Interview with John Brieger (Developing and solo modes) | 01:09:23 | |
Today we are talking to John Brieger about his experience developing games and designing solo modes. Developing games takes a strong design and tunes it into a great final 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 Johns Website: https://briegercreative.com/ Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Steam curator page - https://store.steampowered.com/cur.../40748469-Fun-Problems/ A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 02 Nov 2021 | #19 Structure VS Content | 01:27:47 | |
Today we talk about the dichotomy between a games structure, and it's content! Join us for a deep dive on this exciting new lens! 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. | |||
| 09 Jul 2022 | #26 Kids Games and Kid Friendly Games | 01:15:55 | |
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. | |||
| 22 Oct 2020 | #1 - Ideas | 01:41:21 | |
Join us for an in depth conversation on game design! Today we discuss the inception of board games. What the advantages are of different starting points and what pitfalls to watch out for. We also touch on designing board games as a product, designing for early prototyping and how to know if your game is going in the right direction. A.J.’s talk on why your (Good) game won’t sell; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXxCIUiSMJk&t=37s Kevin Wilson IP games; https://twitter.com/KevinWilson42/status/999170580929802240?s=20 Disney imagineering talk; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LX0Dw-RL_EU We would love to hear from you! Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and email us your questions and comments! A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 07 Dec 2021 | #21 Robotopia Design and Development Lessons | 01:26:55 | |
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. | |||
| 16 Sep 2021 | #16 Interview with Shannon McDowell (Puzzle and Escape Room Design) | 01:11:30 | |
Today we are talking to Shannon McDowell about her experience designing puzzles and escape rooms, and her research on cultural biases in games. Shannon's website: Shannonmcdowell.ca The Con she mentioned: Realityescapecon.com A video on her research: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Da3aubBtvYU 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. | |||
| 18 Jun 2024 | #31 - Foundational Games | 01:14:41 | |
Today we talk about Foundational Games; what games are so foundational to the craft that all game designers need to play them. 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. | |||
| 18 Aug 2023 | #28 - Cutting Rules and Rules Exceptions | 01:22:43 | |
Today we talk about when you need to cut rules, when the rules exceptions are worth it-as well as scarcity mindset and a bunch of other stuff! 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. | |||
| 01 Aug 2021 | #13 Jeff Fraser Interview (Cartouche, Codesigning and more!) | 00:53:57 | |
Today we are talking to Jeff Fraser about his experience codesigning Cartouche, and touch on many other topics, such as rule book writing, the psychology of numbers, and more! Cartouche is coming to KS Aug 3, sign up to get notified when it launches here; https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/peterchayward/cartouche You can try Cartouche right now for free on TTS here; https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2545396343 If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :) Contact Jeff here; jwfraser.ca Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Steam curator page - https://store.steampowered.com/cur.../40748469-Fun-Problems/ A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 25 Apr 2021 | #6 - Board Game Terminology (Part 1) | 01:00:30 | |
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. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 15 Mar 2021 | #5 - Community Submitted Pitches/Hooks | 01:09:34 | |
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. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 02 Feb 2021 | #3 - Common Mistakes New Designers Make (Part 2) | 00:54:21 | |
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. | |||
| 01 Oct 2021 | #17 Hook, Craft, Spirit (Part 1) | 01:03:33 | |
Today we talk about Peters new model for creative endeavors IN PERSON! Hook is what catches an audiences interest, craft is the quality of their experience, and spirit is what stays with them afterwards. Join us for a deep dive on this exciting new lens! 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. | |||
| 26 Jan 2024 | Intuitive Rules – Peter solo episode! | 00:24:37 | |
An unedited, one-take, no intro or outro episode! Enjoy! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 16 Jul 2021 | #12 Fixing BGG (Rethinking Genres) | 01:07:20 | |
Today we are talking about how to think about genres from new angles by considering the core of what makes games tick. We hope you enjoy! Cartouche TTS mod - https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2545396343 0 Player game - https://youtu.be/N-BbgqOjIqk MDA original - https://users.cs.northwestern.edu/~hunicke/MDA.pdf Extra Credits has a great breakdown of aesthetics and added the "dominance" aesthetic to the original list here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uepAJ-rqJKA If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Steam curator page - https://store.steampowered.com/cur.../40748469-Fun-Problems/ A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 15 Jun 2021 | #9 - Onramping (Designing for the first play) | 01:07:22 | |
Today we are talking about onramping; how to get new players into playing and having fun as easily and quickly as possible. Our topics include everything from scenario design to rulebooks to component design and more! Jeff Fraser - jwfraser.ca If you want to ask us a fun question, or contact us for any other reason send us a message to the email below. :) Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod A big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 20 Jun 2022 | #25 That Time You Killed Me Design Diary | 00:55:35 | |
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. | |||
| 24 Oct 2024 | #36 - Rethinking Rethinking Genres | 00:52:37 | |
Peter and AJ explore the concept of genre within board games, comparing it to the well-defined genres found in films and novels. They discuss the challenges of applying traditional genre theory to board games, which often rely on mechanisms rather than genres to define them. The conversation touches on the importance of genre in other media, highlighting how it helps creators meet audience expectations and allows consumers to find similar content they might enjoy. Peter and AJ examine how board games currently lack clear genre definitions and the impact this has on both designers and players.
Show Notes Robotopia is now live on Kickstarter! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bean-games/robotopia-a-strategic-eurogame-of-robot-revolutionaries?ref=89xwyv For the one person who cares; AJ's look alike is Mathew Gray Gubler.
Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 03 Feb 2025 | #45 - The Best Design Advice on the Internet – Part 4 | 01:36:24 | |
The best game design advice on the internet can be found at https://daniel.games/ – we can't recommend it highly enough! This is part 3 of a series where we explore the game design blog "Daniel.Games," written by Daniel Piechnick. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 13 Jan 2025 | #43 Co-designing | 01:41:51 | |
Welcome to Fun Problems, where we dive into the challenges and joys of game design and podcasting. In this episode, hosts Peter C. Hayward and AJ Brandon are joined by special guest Alex Cutler to discuss the ins and outs of codesigning board games with another designer. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 02 Dec 2024 | #39 - The Best Design Advice on the Internet – Part 1 | 01:14:50 | |
Today is part 1 of a series where we explore the game design blog "Daniel.Games," written by Daniel Piechnick. This episode includes the importance of elegance in design, minimizing complexity, and understanding the social aspect of board games. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 10 Nov 2024 | #37 - Fidelity | 00:41:05 | |
In this episode, we delve into the importance of numbers and their impact on gameplay. We explore how the concept of fidelity, or granularity, influences the design and experience of both board games and video games. Our discussion kicks off with a comparison between games like Magic: The Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh!, highlighting how different number systems create unique player experiences. We also examine the role of numbers in scoring systems, using examples like Lost Cities, and how small changes can significantly affect gameplay. We touch on the concept of "knobs" in game design, which allow designers to tweak various elements such as cost, attack, health, and abilities, to create a balanced and engaging game. The conversation expands to the advantages and challenges of low and high fidelity games, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful number management to avoid cognitive overload for players. The episode also explores video game adaptations of board games, like Slay the Spire, and how they manage numbers to maintain balance and excitement. We conclude with insights into the strategic planning required in resource management games and the significance of ensuring manageable numbers for players. Removing Math From Games: https://boardgamedesignlab.com/removing-math-from-games-with-dan-peterson/ Robotopia is now on Kickstarter! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bean-games/robotopia-a-strategic-eurogame-of-robot-revolutionaries?ref=89xwyv
Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 06 Apr 2025 | #50 - Board Game Industry Predictions | 01:30:14 | |
As we celebrate our 50th episode, we predict the next five years of the industry, including the growing role of AI in game design, shifts in game themes, and the potential impact of global economic factors on the industry. Note this was recorded before the massive "Liberation Day" tariffs bombshell. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 28 Feb 2025 | #47 - Why Your (GOOD) Game Won't Sell – Part 2 | 01:56:50 | |
This episode explores product cohesion, perceived value, and market alignment to ensure your game stands out on store shelves and online platforms. Discover the importance of table presence, demo-friendly design, and crafting the perfect pitch that resonates with both publishers and players. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 11 Apr 2025 | #51 - Audience Sell-Sheets | 01:01:49 | |
Welcome to this episode of Fun Problems, where Peter C. Hayward and AJ Brandon explore what makes an effective sell sheet, providing feedback on listener-submitted examples. Throughout the discussion, they offer actionable advice on how to improve clarity, visual hierarchy, and focus in order to capture the interest of potential publishers. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 09 Dec 2024 | #40 - The Best Design Advice on the Internet – Part 2 | 01:05:09 | |
Today is part 2 of a series where AJ and Peter explore the game design blog "Daniel.Games," written by Daniel Piechnick. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 14 Nov 2024 | #38 - Sell Sheets (Industry Talk) | 00:36:27 | |
Join hosts Peter C. Hayward and AJ Brandon as they delve into the art of creating effective sell sheets for board games. This episode steps away from the usual design principles to tackle an essential aspect of game publishing. Using real examples from Peter's own collection of sell sheets, they illustrate what works and what doesn't, offering practical tips for creating a sell sheet that effectively communicates the essence of your game. Back of Boxes: https://tinyurl.com/y7jtsrr3 Sell sheets: https://imgur.com/a/fE3c14D Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 25 Dec 2024 | #42 BONUS Holiday Special | 01:19:10 | |
In this special holiday edition of "Fun Problems," host Peter C. Hayward takes center stage to delve into the cultural nuances and underlying assumptions of beloved games like Go, Dominion, and Wingspan. Peter explores how culture and timing influence game success, challenging the popular notion of universal game design truths. This engaging episode also includes personal stories, playful banter with co-host AJ, and a light-hearted discussion on the pet peeves of gamers and game designers alike. From frustrating player behaviors to the intricacies of rulebook design, this episode provides an entertaining deep dive into the world of tabletop gaming, offering both laughter and valuable insights. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 24 Dec 2024 | #41 - The Best Design Advice on the Internet – Part 3 | 01:18:17 | |
Today is part 3 of a series where AJ and Peter explore the game design blog "Daniel.Games," written by Daniel Piechnick. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 12 Feb 2025 | #46 - Why Your (GOOD) Game Won't Sell – Part 1 | 01:46:53 | |
In this episode of Fun Problems, Peter C. Hayward and AJ Brandon revisit AJ's popular talk from his perspective as a retailer on factors (other than how 'fun' the game is) that can make or break a sale at retail stores. Peter and AJ also emphasize understanding the "last stage pitch"—how buyers get their friends to play—and offer insights into creating memorable experiences that facilitate game recommendations. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 14 Mar 2025 | #48 - Grab Bag Minisode | 00:29:21 | |
In this mini-sode, we touch on the importance of adaptability, using games like Robotopia to illustrate the 'follow the dog' philosophy. We teach focusing on fun and cutting unnecessary decision points to enhance game enjoyment. Whether it's co-design challenges or crafting concise mechanics, this episode dives into the nuances of aligning design choices with the player's experience. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 25 Jan 2025 | #44 - Peter's 2024 Finances (Industry Talk) | 00:50:24 | |
Peter and AJ embark on a journey through the intricacies of royalties, advances, and the challenges of managing income as full-time game designers. With transparency as their guiding principle, they discuss the importance of understanding money, navigating contracts, and planning for financial stability in an unpredictable market. Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 28 Mar 2025 | #49 - Would Allplay Publish This? | 01:08:19 | |
This episode kicks off our new series, featuring candid discussions about what it takes to catch the eye of top-notch publishers. Joe Wiggins explains what Allplay is looking for, and goes through many examples of published games that would be a great fit. Tune in to see if you have a game Allplay is looking to publish! Submit to Allplay here: help.allplay.com The Bits (Joe's podcast): https://rb.gy/53dzlf Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 18 Apr 2025 | #52 - Would AEG Publish This? | 00:55:03 | |
John Zinzer and Mark Wooten explain what AEG is looking for, and go through many examples of published games that would be a great fit. Tune in to see if you have a game AEG is looking to publish! Email creative@alderac.com to submit your game ideas to the company! Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 20 Sep 2024 | #34 - Unhelpful Advice | 01:25:20 | |
In this episode, we're bringing you "unhelpful" advice on how to navigate the world of game development. Join us as we discuss our experiences, insights, and the quirks of the industry. Discover why having a brand as a designer matters, the significance of player interaction, and the importance of finding joy in the design process. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting, our candid discussion provides a fresh perspective on the Fun Problems of game creation. Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! This episode marks our first-ever video recording, allowing you to see our smiling faces and quirky backgrounds: https://youtu.be/CpqWAOtR5z4 | |||
| 20 Jul 2024 | #32 - Fundamentals of Game Design and the Magic Circle | 00:54:33 | |
In this episode, Peter and AJ dive deep into the essence of game design, focusing on the core principles that make a game fun and engaging. They explore the concept of "striving games" versus "accomplishment games" and emphasize the importance of incentivizing fun behaviors in game design. Peter shares his theory that game design is fundamentally about identifying what's compelling and then incentivizing that behavior. They also discuss the Magic Circle, the balance between fun and efficiency, and how to ensure players are having the most enjoyable experience possible. Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||
| 27 Sep 2024 | #35 - The Third Type of Coop Games | 01:01:24 | |
In this milestone episode, Peter revisits his popular theory on cooperative games, originally discussed on Gabe Barrett's Board Game Design Lab. He introduces a new type of co-op game that has emerged in recent years, expanding the original framework of limited communication and against-the-game co-ops. Peter and AJ delve into the intricacies of this third type, the cozy cooperative game, characterized by open communication and score-based objectives. They also explore the role of victory points in game design, offering insights for both seasoned designers and enthusiasts. Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!
Show Notes The Two Types of Co-op Games (BGDL): https://tinyurl.com/32sf8bhf Virtual Playtesting: https://discord.gg/js3RXMuz
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| 16 Aug 2024 | #33 - Play Patterns | 00:47:21 | |
Today we discuss Play Patterns from a number of different angles. What makes a fun play pattern, how to encourage them and more!
Email: funproblemspodcast@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: @FunProblemsPod Fun Problems Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song! | |||