Tumble Tree

Industrial User Experience

Tumble Tree

Problem

The Köln International Schoo School Project “Play Green” aimed to explore the potential of natural materials in game design. The challenge was to move beyond traditional manufactured materials and create a game that embraced the inherent randomness and imperfections of natural elements. The goal was to design a playful and engaging experience that celebrated the beauty of imperfection.

Approach

We began by immersing ourselves in the design principles of renowned board game designer Jens-Peter Schliemann, analyzing the mechanics and player experiences of his games. This provided a framework for our own design exploration. We formed teams of three to four to brainstorm diverse game concepts, always mindful of the limitations and opportunities presented by the natural materials. Our initial focus was on understanding the functional properties of each material – the weight of the nuts, the slipperiness of the peas, the stability of the wood – and how these could be leveraged to create engaging gameplay.

Impact

Playtesters praised Tumble Tree’s unique blend of strategic planning and unpredictable outcomes. The tactile experience of handling the natural materials was a highlight, with players appreciating the subtle variations in weight and shape. The game fostered lively interaction and unexpected moments, demonstrating the potential of natural materials to create engaging and memorable gameplay.

Learnings

This project reinforced the importance of material-driven design, where the properties of the materials directly inform the game mechanics. Embracing randomness, rather than attempting to eliminate it, resulted in a more dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. Iterative prototyping was crucial for refining the game’s mechanics and achieving a balance between strategic depth and player enjoyment. The project demonstrated that natural materials can be a powerful tool for creating innovative and aesthetically pleasing board games.