Goal
Trace how a small rule change alters player behaviour.
Scenario and materials
Create a small game about collecting samples on an island. In version A, players earn points for delivered samples. In version B, change just one scoring rule to reward a different behaviour, such as distributing finds between participants.
Cards and a board
Constraints
- Keep the board, actions, turn count and starting resources identical in both versions.
- Change only one reward rule.
- Do not add items or abilities.
Steps
- Write down the behaviour you want each version to encourage.
- Play both versions from the same starting setup.
- Compare routes and decisions. If behaviour stays the same, adjust the reward.
Deliverable
Two rule sets with the difference highlighted and a turn-by-turn table of player decisions.
Check your work
- Exactly one rule has changed.
- Expected and observed behaviour are recorded separately.
- Explain why the reward changes decisions, or why it had no effect.
Reflect
Which incentive mattered most: points, a limited resource or another player’s actions?
Sources and further reading
Thematic inspiration: Challenges for Game Designers by Brenda Brathwaite and Ian Schreiber. These scenarios, constraints and checks are independently written around broad game-design learning topics. This is not a translation or a sequential retelling of the book exercises.