Week 12 - Transparency

I watched a video on Dune Imperium: Immortality which is a game based on the franchise of books and now movies. The elements of the game correspond with the franchise the game is based on. Soren Johnson's four notions of transparency are present in some shape or form within the game.

Transparency via interface

The game features cards that have icons that are directly associated with a mechanic featured on the board. These icons are also tied with a specific ability and action as well. The board itself features simple to understand iconography and a linear play direction with events that can occur when hitting a certain space. This is similar to most board games meaning not much is needed to be explained here.

Transparency via systems

The systems of this game follow traditional ideas in board games. Going back to the icons, these icons signify certain abilities or functions. If you have a card with certain icons then the card, of course, functions in this certain way.

Transparency via theme

The theme is clear in what is meant to be accomplished in multiple ways. Most board games with themes follow a similar path where first with most of X points wins at the end or first to complete the traveling. In Dune, there are objectives to the characters and if the player has previously read or watched anything Dune related then they will have a rough idea on what needs to be accomplished in the game.

Transparency via help

The cards and board do a good job showing what each ability is and does. If there is more than one of something the card will let you know what the card will then function as. The instructions are also very straightforward in making it clear what will happen in different scenarios.