Time to Die
When I think of clocks, I think of time. When I think of time, I think of timing puzzles. Timing puzzles are mechanics that move. They are perfect for creating tense moments when a player has to wait for the right time to dash through whirling blades or smashing pylons.5 They cause anticipation for the player as he waits for the right moment to jump to a moving platform. A timing puzzle should have the following:
- The hazard must have a discernible movement pattern. The pattern can be back and forth, up and down, zigzag, circular, or figure eight: just as long as players can track the hazard’s movement and determine when to act.
- The hazard must have predictable timing. Random timing is unfair to players, who need to understand the pattern to be successful.
- The window of opportunity must be tight, but not impossible. Allow leeway for players at the start and close of the window’s opening.
- Use “tells” in the world to give players clues to where it...