If it's a multivictor game, isn't part of the design allowing for this kind of play? I am having trouble understanding why thsi would be a criticism if the game is structured in such a way as to allow or encourage this?
Replies
It was less of a criticism and more of an observation of how our plays are different than his other playtests. FWIW this is also his first stab at multivictor so understandably it takes time to get right. I'm even working on a MV design too 😉
jun 13, 2025, 5:18 am • 2 0 • view
He did go on to say that he needs to account for this kind of behavior from players. I personally think the format - a negotiation game, leans into group hug so everyone can win. He expects most games won't go like this as most players default to 'fair trades.'
jun 13, 2025, 5:18 am • 2 0 • view
I am of the opinion as players get more accustomed to MV-style games it'll be progressively easier to pull off group hug-style victories in these kinds of games broadly.
jun 13, 2025, 5:18 am • 3 0 • view
I agree with this, and I think something that is / should be happening at the bleeding edge of MV design is thinking about how to cue "group hug" style play via rules and component text. Framing what is "winning" and what actions mean can really reshape how the same design gets played. (con't...)
jun 13, 2025, 1:26 pm • 3 0 • view
... As a designer, I tend to want to "solve" player behavior problems via systems interventions, but I'm learning as I explore the MV / RPG space that the same exact system can be played VERY differently just by describing things differently.
jun 13, 2025, 1:27 pm • 2 0 • view
I don't see the problem here -- you're all doing a good job helping him see the diversity of play styles. You can't be the only person in the world who wants to play your way. You helped him catch that this will happen. If he doesn't want this result he needs to change the game to prevent it.
jun 13, 2025, 11:32 am • 7 0 • view
Well that’s good! I think what a lot of people miss in multivictor games is that it’s not just about changing how to win. The game has to be flexible enough to support different modes of play. There’s still tension it’s just of a different nature than single victor games. Wanna see yours!!
jun 13, 2025, 12:28 pm • 1 0 • view