Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Prototype2Publisher: WAMPUM

Since becoming enthralled with the variety of modern board games, I have been inspired in many different ways to create games of my own. Sometimes the first spark comes from an experience or fun activity, and I wonder how the fun could be relived and reproduced for others through a set of game components. At other times, it’s a particular challenge – like climbing a mountain – that gives me a sense of satisfaction for having accomplished something I had never done before. Sometimes I want to take a good game mechanic further, and other times I want to make it more accessible.

Most often, however, it is a theme that grabs me, and I will hunt for years until I find the right mechanics that fit. The inspiration for my upcoming card game, Wampum, however, was something entirely different…

Prototype2Print-n-Play: TUG OF WAR


I mentioned in the design notes to Alea Iacta Est that it all started out with a challenge I gave to Bernd to enter a contest for 2-player dice games. I also posted my original game here, titled Castles & Crowns, which was later developed further into Alea Iacta Est. I always thought that Bernd's answer to my challenge was a great little game as well, and for some time, I have wanted to make it available for others to enjoy. It's a very simple and elegant game that can be played with a few materials you already have. We tried it at the end our game night again last night, and I highly recommend it! -Jeff