Unwrapping Insights How Board Game Designers Can Improve Their Craft through Unexpected Connections It's a clever play on words, using the idea of unwrapping (like unwrapping a snake) and applying it to the theme of gaining insights from unexpected places. The title effectively conveys the main idea of the post, which is to explore how board game designers can learn from other fields and disciplines to improve their craft.

Unwrapping Insights How Board Game Designers Can Improve Their Craft through Unexpected Connections

As board game designers, we often find ourselves stuck in familiar patterns and tried-and-true mechanics. But what if we could learn from an unexpected source? In this blog post, we'll explore how board game designers can improve their craft by drawing parallels between snake wrangling and the art of game design.

Lessons from Snake Wrangling

When Australian reptile catcher Cory Kerewaro's team recently wrangled 102 venomous snakes in a Sydney backyard, they learned valuable lessons about patience, flexibility, and attention to detail. Similarly, effective game design requires an understanding of player psychology, adaptability, and a willingness to iterate.

Embracing the Unknown

Just as Kerewaro's team had no idea they'd find 102 snakes, game designers must be prepared to navigate the unpredictable nature of player behavior. By embracing uncertainty, we can create engaging experiences that resonate with our target audience.

Flexibility is Key

Snake wrangling requires adjusting plans on a dime. Game designers should cultivate a similar flexibility by being open to iterating and refining their designs in response to player feedback and changing market conditions.

Pattern Recognition A Key to Successful Game Design

Kerewaro's team initially expected to find only a few adult snakes, but instead discovered a nest of baby snakes. This unexpected discovery highlights the importance of pattern recognition in game design

Identifying Trends By recognizing patterns in player behavior, we can create engaging experiences that resonate with our target audience.
Adapting to Changing Conditions Just as Kerewaro's team adjusted their approach after finding the babies, game designers must be prepared to adapt their designs in response to player feedback and changing market conditions.

Attention to Detail The Key to Success

In snake wrangling, attention to detail is crucial for avoiding mistakes that could lead to painful consequences. Game designers should take a similar approach by

Focusing on Mechanics Understanding the intricacies of game mechanics can make all the difference in creating an enjoyable experience.
Anticipating Consequences By considering the potential outcomes of design choices, game designers can avoid common pitfalls and create more cohesive experiences.

Conclusion

The story of Cory Kerewaro's 102 snakes is a powerful reminder that even in unexpected places, we can find valuable lessons to improve our craft. By embracing the unknown, recognizing patterns, and focusing on attention to detail, board game designers can wrangle their own creative potential and produce innovative games that delight players.

Keywords snake wrangling, game design, pattern recognition, attention to detail

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.