Legacy Games - From Risk to Pandemic to SeaFall & Beyond

Explore the evolution and impact of "legacy" board games in this 2017 GDC session presented by game designer Rob Daviau. Delve into the appeal of these innovative games, their influence on the gaming industry, and the valuable lessons they offer to game designers. Discover how legacy games challenge traditional concepts of replayability, player agency, and game design. Learn about key examples like Risk, Pandemic, and SeaFall, and understand how these games have revolutionized the board game experience. Gain insights into the design principles behind legacy games, including the use of covenants, comic book-style storytelling, and tightly scripted gameplay elements. Examine the concept of perceived infinite replay and its value to players, as well as the unique way legacy games allow for consequence-free exploration. Uncover the designer's role in controlling game materials and creating memorable moments for players. Analyze the success and challenges faced by legacy games, including their reception and impact on the broader gaming landscape.

Intro
Covenants
Comic Books
Deep Nerd Cuts
Betrayal At House on the Hill
LOTR TP DVD
Perceived infinite replay is highly valued.
The player decides how much a game is played
Games allow for consequence-free exploration
Minimizing Mastery
The designer controls the materials
The second big moment
Games tell you everything that's in the box
Tightly scripted- legacy deck
Got big. Stayed shaggy. Mixed reviews.
DOWNSTREAM