A Card Game for Family Relationships
CATEGORY:
BOARD GAME DESIGN
YEAR:
2024
EXPERIENCE:
Digital Drawing/ Game Design/ Graphic Design/ Video Editing/ Marketing
LINK:
key insights.
process.
Observation
Interviews revealed recurring tension around authority, expectations, and emotional expression.
Many families lacked tools to discuss conflict without escalation.
Story
Family conflicts often come from care but are experienced as control.
Pathways explores how play can create a safer structure for these conversations.
concept development
Game mechanics were used to represent negotiation, pressure, and shifting control.
Hexagonal tiles visualize changing power dynamics during play.
DISCURSIVE DESIGN
Pathways draws from discursive design, using objects to provoke reflection rather than provide direct solutions.
The game externalizes family dynamics through mechanics that encourage dialogue and perspective taking.
play testing
Play sessions revealed moments of reflection, humor, and tension.
Feedback refined prompts, rules, and pacing.
game design.
Core mechanics
Players respond to prompts using action cards such as Block, Pressure, and Punish, representing common family power dynamics.
Strategic moves shift control between players while guiding conversation.
reflective cards
Prompt cards introduce questions about expectations, authority, and emotional support.
They guide discussion while allowing players to respond strategically.
packaging design
The box structure organizes tiles, cards, and components within a compact footprint.
Interior layout and component sizing were optimized for efficient storage and quick setup.
refine playing
Early play tests revealed imbalances where certain actions dominated gameplay.
Card distribution and rules were refined to stabilize pacing and win conditions.
interaction flow
Players draw a prompt card and respond using action mechanics such as Block, Pressure, or Punish.
Each round resolves the situation and invites reflection, turning gameplay into structured dialogue.
kickstarter.
campaign development
Kickstarter assets were developed to communicate the concept and gameplay system.
Materials include campaign visuals, product photography, and promotional videos.
production preparation
Card layouts, packaging, and component systems were prepared for small batch manufacturing.
The campaign aims to validate the concept and support initial production.
marketing content
Short form content was created to introduce the project and build early interest before launch.
Videos highlight gameplay, mechanics, and the core idea behind the system.