EP17: Gorogoa - Games Every Designer Should Play

Welcome to Episode 17 of 'Games Every Designer Should Play,' the podcast that explores the world of game design by analysing some of the greatest games of all time. Join experienced Game Design lecturers Stuart Lilford, Adrian Mills, and David Grant as they see what's between the panels in Gorogoa. 🚨 Spoiler alert for The Game! We STRONGLY advise you to play before listening. In this episode, we explore what Gorogoa teaches us about game design — and why it's a great example of doing more with less. We look at how limitations are a designers friend and why it's vague narrative is so powerful. We also discuss the importance of design constraints, the idea that fewer mechanics can lead to more meaningful play, and how Gorogoa proves that strong art direction will always outlive realism. Along the way, we break down its oblique narrative design, its careful puzzle pacing, and the confidence it shows in players by offering no tutorials or hand-holding.   Featuring feedback from listeners and the verdict: Is Gorogoa a must-play for every designer? 📧 Email us your comments or questions on the game discussed in the next episode at shouldplaypodcast@gmail.com  It's David's turn to choose the game we must play for the next episode. Will it be beloved by all or could it be controversial? You'll have to listen to the end to find out! 👀 #Gorogoa #GameDesign #GamesEveryDesignerShouldPlay #IndieGames #PuzzleDesign #NarrativeDesign #GameArt #GameDesignPodcast #DesignThinking   Thank you for tuning in! 🎧✨ We are @ShouldPlayPod on Instagram, Twitter BlueSky, Threads, and YouTube. === CREDITS === Music by Vasil Trofimov from Pixabay. Sound Effects by floraphonic from Pixabay. Thanks to Gary Mitchell for Technical Support