Fun Problems
Fun Problems
AJ Brandon and Peter C. Hayward
#70 - An entire episode about taking an action
1 hour 18 minutes Posted Sep 12, 2025 at 5:30 am.
Welcome to the Podcast
Celebratory Bug-Free News
Diving into Action Selection
Importance of Restrictions
Exploring Game Design Range
Worker Placement Unpacked
The Role of Scarcity
Worker Placement Examples
Discussing Bidding Systems
Action Selection Through Bidding
The Power of Drafting
Unpacking Worker Movement
Unique Action Selection Examples
Exploring Rondell Mechanics
Discussing Action Menus
The Complexity of Worker Placement
Endgame Insights and Publisher Tips
Fast Fun Question Time
Signing Off
0:00
1:18:40
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Show notes
Peter C. Hayward and AJ Brandon break down action selection systems in games; why constraints and variance make turns interesting and how different systems (worker placement, dice placement, drafting, rondels, time tracks, menus and more) shape player decisions.
The episode gives designers practical examples, trade-offs and tips from many published games, plus a publisher note about avoiding thematic overlap, to help you choose the right action system for your game.
Mathew Dunstan Elegance Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=goONo66xVAs
Discord: https://discord.gg/BjerXtQ3Me
Email: [email protected]
Big thanks to Eduard Matei for our theme song!