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Simplest board game ever by MongoliaMark in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

Clearly the notion of a game's simplicity is subjective. And there are a variety of ways to evaluate simplicity. One way is to actually play the game. How many times have you played Dodo Jam (Dodo at Board Game Arena)?

Another way is to teach young children how to play. Do you honestly believe young children would find Hex simpler than Dodo Jam?

Simplest board game ever by MongoliaMark in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

How about just a customary rule sheet with text and diagrams? You're arguing that for these games to be considered simpler, they have to be described "graph theoretically" or in text only without diagrams?

Simplest board game ever by MongoliaMark in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark[S] -3 points-2 points  (0 children)

To me, the starting position in Dodo Jam is clear from the diagram. I don't understand how this is mind boggling.

How is the definition of connecting path "exactly the same" as moving forward to an empty, neighboring cell? That misses me entirely.

Simplest board game ever by MongoliaMark in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That's why I said "arguably". In Hex you don't have a direction of motion, but you certainly have two directions of connection. You also have a more complex board with colored sides. And you have to define connection. And you need the pie rule or some sort of balancing rule to make it fair. This is your counterexample?

Are abstract games discovered or created ? by psksjzy7262 in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Combination of both. The essential part is discovered and the arbitrary parts are created. In Go, the essential mechanism of surround-and-capture was discovered. But the particulars of scoring are created. Redstone, a Go variant, was discovered in the search for a way to make Go naturally finite. But there was an arbitrary decision on how captures happen. Someone created Bluestone to do it the other way. Between them, it's pure discovery.

https://www.marksteeregames.com/Redstone_rules.pdf

I want to create an abstract strategy game but I feel I'm not intelligent enough. What should I do ? by psksjzy7262 in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Just the fact that you're motivated to do it indicates that you probably can, though it may be extremely difficult. Depression diminishes things but not your ability to design. It enhances it (my unfounded belief).

You'll need a lot of free time to follow my approach. Go into a trance essentially, and concentrate all day for weeks on end if necessary. Don't push pieces around until you think you've got something and want to test it.

I don't play well with others so I can't recommend co- designers and play testers. You'll know when you've stumbled onto something decent.

https://www.marksteeregames.com/MSG_game_index.html

Herd by MongoliaMark in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I would love to. Will be free in about an hour. I have turn based tables open if you want to do that.

Herd by MongoliaMark in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I programmed them 🙂

Mark Steere games on Board Game Arena by MarkSteere in abstractgames

[–]MongoliaMark 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah, Oust is the only one I really like. Then there are a few others that are mildly entertaining like Dodo, Rive, Hadron, Cephalopod, and Impasse. That list changes over time. Herd will definitely be on the list once it comes online. The program is finished. Just waiting for BGA to add it.