The following photos are from session #3, where students were introduced to playtesting. They were given supplies to design and play a board game, including paper, Play-Doh, chess pieces, toy soldiers, dominos, dice, playing cards, index cards, Post-It notes, rulers, and markers. In groups of 4-6, students built a physical representation of the game board, drafted rules, and played 5-10 rounds before stopping for feedback. Changes were made to improve game balance, simplify or expand the ruleset, introduce extra features, and otherwise make the game more fun. Each new iteration of the game was tested for several rounds; at the end of the session, students presented their game design to the class, explaining their process and objectives.
The board landscape can be built out of whatever is at hand, in addition to the supplies given to each group.
As testing proceeds, its important to track each players score.
A second view of the board, now that pieces from both teams have moved.
Pondering what card to play next.
Green Play-Doh creates structural elements and holds other objects in place on this board.
Chess pieces are used in play, with some embellishment.
Notes on how the rules could be amended to improve the game will influence the next round of play.
The latest iteration of this game has added a compass to the board and a pink Play-Doh entity.
Toy soldiers prepare for battle on this board.
Strategic players use the boards walls and barriers to shelter behind.
This game uses cards and dice to introduce random elements to the game.
Soldiers that encounter the bright pink toxic goo lose hitpoints until they are removed from the game.
