Skip to Content
 

The Kobold Guide to Board Game Design

6 replies [Last post]
Thu, 03/10/2016 - 14:19
notwilw
notwilw's picture
Offline
Joined: 03/09/2016

Hey, designers!

I've recently purchased the book "The Kobold Guide to Board Game Design" and started reading it, but due to a lot more work on the Kickstarter than I initially expected, I haven't had time to finish it.

However, I'm impressed by it's content and how beautifully structured the first essays are. Seems like a must-have tool for the board game designer.

Have any of you read it and what is your impression?

Cheers,
notwilw

Top
Wed, 04/13/2016 - 07:58
#1
Nerdofwisdom
Nerdofwisdom's picture
Offline
Joined: 04/13/2016
Kobold Guide To Game Design

Mike Selinker edits a fine book of articles on the topic of game design. I enjoyed the read and got a lot out of it. I felt each section was well selected and a great entry into the design process. It might lack something form an experienced designers perspective, but as a amateur it suited me fine. It also gave voice to some of the best in the industry and is a great resource.

Top
Wed, 04/13/2016 - 08:21
#2
kevnburg
kevnburg's picture
Offline
Joined: 05/02/2014
I really liked it. The one

I really liked it. The one thing I would like to see included in a newer version is an address on issues like online testing through sites like tabletop simulator and a tackling of how public to make your prototype when using these (e.g. free on steam workshop?) if interested in submitting it to publishers (because some publishers prefer releasing something "new" vs something readily available; if you're aiming to self-publish this isn't a problem).

Top
Wed, 04/13/2016 - 09:03
#3
let-off studios
let-off studios's picture
Offline
Joined: 02/07/2011
Excellent Resource

I'd say it's a fine collection of essays and well-worth the read.

I enjoy teaching game design to the general public in lots of casual workshop situations and this book has helped me break down big topics into smaller, easily-digested bits and determine what to focus on for "maximum impact," in terms of making game designs better in a short amount of time.

Top
Wed, 04/13/2016 - 13:28
#4
ruy343
Offline
Joined: 07/03/2013
The best of my library

This book is the best one that I own from my library. I slowed down to really think as I read through the first essay a few weeks ago, and that's where I learned a lot about the games I enjoy, and got the game idea that I'm pursuing right now. The later portions haven't been all that helpful yet, though, since they deal with the publishing aspect. Most of us just need to get a good game first, which is really what this book does well at explaining/alluding to.

The Game Designer's handbook wasn't anywhere near as helpful to me, unfortunately. I'd steer clear of that one.

Top
Wed, 05/04/2016 - 09:54
#5
Dstoll
Dstoll's picture
Offline
Joined: 05/19/2014
I've bought a couple of books

I've bought a couple of books on the matter of game design in the last months, but none have been as helpfull to me as this one. Mike Selinker is a really good editor and especially the essay's on game design were a really good read.

A great tool, especially for the beginning designer without too much experience in the business.

Danny

Top
Sat, 05/07/2016 - 13:20
#6
jasongreeno
jasongreeno's picture
Offline
Joined: 07/31/2008
If you haven't already, check

If you haven't already, check out the book Challenges for Game Designers. It's excellent and has lots of great practice suggestions.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/s/ref=is_s_ss_i_0_14?k=challenges+for+game+d...

Top
Syndicate content


forum | by Dr. Radut