Designer Diary: Spokes
by Bert Hardeman
The journey of game design can often be filled with both excitement and challenges. Initially, the thought of creating a board game might seem simple, yet the reality can be quite different. Bert Hardeman embarked on this adventure with a spark of inspiration that transformed into a unique game called Spokes.
The Spark of Inspiration
While attending a convention, Bert encountered Rotterdam, a game centered on boats navigating into the port. The innovative mechanism of calling out a color and having all players move along that color intrigued him. This led to the idea of introducing variable routes, sparking a flurry of creativity.
Bert utilized existing game elements from Ticket to Ride: Europe and Iberia to refine his concept. However, the initial prototypes faced challenges, prompting him to design his own map that eventually encompassed the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg.
Key Features of Spokes
- Cooperative Gameplay: Players work together to prevent cats from escaping a city after breaking out of a shelter, enhancing the collaborative experience.
- Dynamic Movement: Players draw sticks from a bag to determine their movement, with a strategic twist of keeping drawn sticks for future use.
- Unique Racing Mechanic: The game features a chariot racing theme, with movement limited to the next three sticks in a circular arrangement, resembling spokes of a wheel.
- Thematic Depth: Initially described as an abstract game, playtesting revealed its thematic elements, leading to a more engaging gameplay experience.
- Streamlined Rules: Feedback from playtesting led to adjustments that reduced cutthroat elements, focusing on strategic movement and collaboration.
The Evolution of Spokes
Through various iterations, Bert refined the game, including implementing a slipstreaming action to simplify movement rules. Following participation in the Cardboard Edison competition, where the game was recognized as a runner-up, he received valuable feedback that further shaped its development.
Ultimately, Bert found a home for Spokes with Radical 8 Games, thanks to the enthusiasm of a playtester who recommended the game to publisher Mark. Collaborative efforts with the publisher and artist Rusembell led to a visually stunning and engaging game.
Conclusion
The journey from concept to completion is often lengthy, yet it can be immensely rewarding. Bert Hardeman’s experience with Spokes exemplifies how creativity, collaboration, and perseverance can culminate in an exciting board game. Players can look forward to enjoying this unique experience, blending strategy and teamwork in a delightful racing adventure.
Via BoardGameGeek Blog
