design

Q1: Inspired by Rex

Grant Rodiek | November 24, 2016

Dune is a very inspiring design and something that demonstrates many lessons. Although in our interview Olatka noted designers should create their own experiences, which I somewhat agree with, I think Dune can provide a great deal of instruction for those willing to read.

My 2016 Games of the Year

Grant Rodiek | November 13, 2016

2016 is almost at an end, and the time has arrived to reflect on my favorite games of 2016, some misses, and some hopes for 2017. I’ll also ruminate upon my collection and other such matters that are no doubt compelling to you.

2016 Hyperbole Games Annual Report

Grant Rodiek | November 04, 2016

I look forward to my annual reports, because I enjoy the requirement for reflection, being transparent, and just “talking shop” with those who care about my work in the board game space. I must admit this year’s post is a little bittersweet, though cathartic at the same time.

Living in Abstraction

Grant Rodiek | June 01, 2016

So, I made an abstract? I bought Onitama a week or so ago out of sheer curiosity. It looks simple, neat, and it's a beautiful production. Just stunning. The game comes in a neat rectangular box with a magnetic clasp.

The Martian Empire Patch

Grant Rodiek | April 25, 2016

My development partner and life troll, Joshua Buergel, finally played Martian Empire this weekend. This means he's able to chime in on the game and help as a developer. Woo! Some good things came about, including the fact that his group didn't hate it, one clearly grasped the Dune vibe, and had some bones to pick.

Design Tenets

Grant Rodiek | March 21, 2016

Post by: The Community I sent out a Tweet stating my design tenet. "Try to manage uncertainty with the tools you have." - Grant Rodiek Several other designers followed up with their own, and I thought I'd share them here.

The 54 Card Guild: #10

Grant Rodiek | March 14, 2016

If this is the first time you're seeing The 54 Card Guild, I recommend you begin with Guide #1. It will explain everything. All of the posts are tagged with 54 Card Guild. There is an active Slack group, which exists to brainstorm, pitch, and discuss games.

Inspiration for Inspiration's Sake

Grant Rodiek | March 04, 2016

I've had a very interesting experience lately designing a new game and I thought it was worth sharing, as it may be a tool I use in the future, and may be something that could aid you in your efforts.

The Importance of Play

Grant Rodiek | February 29, 2016

I called my brother on a walk this weekend and he told me two stories that I thought really illustrated how important play is to humans. The first, is that on Friday night, my brother was getting home from work around 12:30 am.

The Farm Fresh Plan

Grant Rodiek | January 21, 2016

I've posted many of the details contained in this article on different channels, but I want to condense everything to a single post for folks to read. I want to provide an update on Farmageddon: Farm Fresh Edition, including my publishing plans and schedule, the art team, pre-order campaign, and the current design.