Game Design Activity Sessions – Part 1: Remodelling A Space War On A Blank Paper Sheet

When I was a child, there was a game we used to play during the free time in between classes. It doesn't have an official name, but my friends and I always called it "Space War". Basically, the game's main idea is:

1) in a regular blank paper trace a dividing line right in the middle of it;

2) Each player (and it's a two player game) draws 3 to 6 spaceships (represented by triangles) randomly on their side;

3) the oldest player starts: they must draw a small circle on their side, this is called a "shot";

4) on the next step, this player must fold the paper sheet;

5) after folding the paper the player must guess the place their opponent drew the "shot" and draw another small circle pressing the pen firmly on the area;

6) finally, the player must unfold the paper to check if the "shot" hit the target (the spaceship/triangle); then, it's the other player's turn to play. Important rule: one "shot" only hits a spaceship if it is completely inside the triangle area.

The diagram below shows, in images, the basic rules and game dynamics:



Ok! After trying this game and understanding it, your mission in this exercise is: trying to modify the basic gaming mechanics by adding power cards and dice, giving the ships new abilities and trying to create more uncertainty in a match. Think big and modify the space game with creativity (and try to think of a less stupid name for it).

You can share the results with me by mail, if you want >> vincevader@gmail.com

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