Want to see how a board game is made? Follow along as we bring a card game from idea to reality. 👇👇👇👇👇
Giphy
A Failing Failure
I've always told people I'm open to feedback. I want to hear what's working and what's not. But being open to feedback and actually receiving it without getting defensive are two very different things.
The rational part of my brain knows that constructive criticism is important. When someone gives honest feedback, they're giving me information I need. They're helping me see areas for potential improvement that I can't see on my own.
The other part of my brain, though? That part hears criticism as "you failed." It's not logical. I know the feedback isn't personal, but it can feel personal when you have a spicy brain.
I'm learning to sit with that discomfort instead of immediately justifying my choices or proving to myself why they’re wrong. Most of the time, if someone is confused or frustrated, it doesn't matter what I intended. What matters is their experience, and ignoring that entirely can lead to missed opportunities.
The challenge is separating my ego from the work. Take our card game Rescue, for example, it isn't me. It's a thing I'm making, and it gets better when I listen to people who experience it differently than I do. Some days that's easier to remember than others.
I'm working on it. Feedback still stings sometimes, but I'm trying to let it sting less and inform more. That's progress, I think.
🌑 Encounter
The trail narrows to a ridge of crumbling earth between two drops you can't see the bottom of. Somewhere below, wind moves through a gap in the rock, carrying a low moan that almost sounds like a voice. A rope bridge stretches ahead — old, frayed, but still tied off on both sides.
What will you do?
Test the rope with your weight before committing — Gain 2 XP
Cross quickly and don't look down — Gain 1 AP
Listen closely to the sound below — Gain 1 XP
Search for another way around — Lose 1 AP
Panic and rush — the bridge sways violently — Lose 2 HP
Tie yourself to the rope and inch across — No effect
