Learn how to design experiences that spark genuine insight, using principles from cognitive psychology, puzzle craft, and game design. Designed for all attendees.
Details
Timing:
Wed 11:00 AM - Wed 12:30 PM
Location:
JW
/ White River Ballroom J
Long Description:
Great puzzles, lessons, and games hinge on a single feeling: the moment when scattered pieces suddenly click into place. This session explores how to intentionally design for that experience instead of hoping it appears by accident. Drawing from puzzle-hunt design, classroom practice, and cognitive science, we’ll examine how solvers build mental models, why misdirection sometimes delights and sometimes frustrates, and how to tune difficulty so insight feels earned. Participants will dissect real examples, diagnose why they succeed or fail, and practice reshaping a weak challenge into one that guides discovery without giving away the answer. Leave with practical tools for crafting clearer clues, cleaner feedback loops, and more memorable “Aha!” moments in any learning or play environment.
Event Website:
N/A
Organizing Group:
GM Names:
David Tomczyk, Jim Tomczyk
Event Type:
Game System:
N/A
Rules Edition:
N/A
# Players:
1 - 99 players
Age Required:
Everyone (6+)
Experience Required:
None (You've never played before - rules will be taught)
Materials Provided?:
No
Tournament?:
No
Sessions Hide unavailable sessions
Wednesday
-
This event
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
99 tickets available