Playtest Set 1

Added New Rules:

1. Quick Tutorial or Examples to Clarify Rules:

   • Many players found the initial gameplay hard to understand, especially regarding the use of power cards. To address this, a quick tutorial or visual guide can be added to the rulebook or game box. This tutorial would include examples of card interactions and how power cards influence gameplay.

   • Benefit: Speeds up the learning curve for new players and enhances accessibility.

2. Example Scenarios for Power Card Usage:

   • Provide detailed scenarios in the instructions to explain how power cards can be strategically used. For instance:

     • "Using a Sabotage card to replace a card from another player’s set."

     • "How the Exchange card impacts other players' hands."

   • Benefit: Players gain a better understanding of advanced strategies, leading to a richer gameplay experience.

Design Changes:

1. Reduce Card Size:

   • Feedback indicates that the current card size is too large, making it cumbersome to handle and shuffle. Reducing the card dimensions to a more standard size will improve usability.

   • Benefit: Easier handling for players of all ages and better shuffle-ability.

2. Change Card Shape to Rounded Edges:

   • Sharp edges can feel uncomfortable and make cards prone to wear and tear. Switching to rounded edges ensures durability and a better tactile experience.

   • Benefit: Increases card longevity and improves the overall user experience.

Wording and Icon Changes:

1. Enlarge Power Card Symbols:

   • Many players struggled to identify power card symbols during gameplay due to their small size. Enlarging these symbols would make them more recognizable.

   • Benefit: Speeds up gameplay by reducing confusion and visual strain.

Playtest Set 2

Added New Rules:

1. Introduce a Turn Time Limit:

   • For games with more than 4 players, gameplay can feel slow. Implement a rule that each player has a maximum of 1 minute to complete their turn. This could be tracked using a small hourglass or a mobile timer.

   • Benefit: Keeps the pace engaging and minimizes downtime between turns.

Design Changes:

1. Improved Card Finish:

   • Players reported that the cards feel slippery and difficult to shuffle. Switching to a textured or matte finish improves grip and shuffle-ability.

   • Benefit: Enhances the physical interaction with the cards, making them easier to use.

2. Favour Card Symbol Update:

   • The Favour card currently has a symbol and name mismatch. Update the symbol to better reflect the card’s function, such as a handshake icon to symbolize exchanging hands with another player.

   • Benefit: Reduces confusion and makes the card’s effect immediately clear.

Wording and Icon Changes:

1. Add Instructions or Icons for Power Cards:

   • Cards like Exchange and Sabotage can be confusing for new players. Include concise instructions or intuitive icons on the cards. For example:

     • Exchange: A swap icon.

     • Sabotage: A breaking chain symbol.

   • Benefit: Simplifies onboarding for new players and reduces the reliance on the rulebook during gameplay.

Playtest Set 3

Added New Rules:

1. One Power Card Per Round:

   • The rule limiting players to using one power card per round worked well and created a balanced pacing for the game. Players enjoyed the added layer of strategy this rule introduced.

2. Adjusted Reverse Card Usage:

   • Based on player feedback, we refined the Reverse card’s rule so that it changes the direction of gameplay only after the player has completed their turn. This minimized disruptions and made the flow of turns smoother.

3. Partial Set Display Strategy:

   • Players were encouraged to utilize the partial set display rule (introduced in earlier playtests) to bluff or mislead opponents. The VorteXR Club members confirmed that this added a compelling psychological aspect to the gameplay.

Design Changes:

1. Card Handling:

   • While the rounded edges and reduced size improved usability, players suggested a textured or matte finish for better grip and shuffle-ability. This feedback highlighted the need for higher-quality materials in the final version.

2. Sabotage Card Symbol:

   • The devil icon used for the Sabotage card was deemed too dramatic and inconsistent with the game’s humorous tone. Players recommended a lighter, more playful symbol that aligns with the game’s aesthetic.

3. Power Card Design Improvements:

   • The enlarged symbols and added icons on power cards were well-received, making them easier to identify during gameplay. Players appreciated this improvement but suggested further refinement of the Sabotage and Exchange card designs for clarity and consistency.

Wording and Icon Changes:

1. Power Card Explanations:

   • Some players still found certain power card effects (like Exchange) slightly confusing. They suggested adding quick-reference cards or including concise examples in the rulebook to further clarify actions.

2. Simplified Instructions:

   • Feedback indicated that the rulebook could benefit from more streamlined language and a section dedicated to example scenarios for new players, such as a step-by-step breakdown of a turn using power cards.

3. Visual Refinements:

   • Icons for power cards like Reverse, Sabotage, and Favour were well-received, but there was a request for more consistent styling to align with the overall theme of the game. For example:

     • Reverse: A circular arrow icon could include a playful twist, such as colorful arrows.

     • Sabotage: Replace the devil symbol with something lighter, like a broken chain or mischievous smiley face.

Playtest Set 4

Added New Rules:

1. Character Abilities Explanation:

   • Allow players to reference a brief explanation of character abilities during gameplay. For instance, provide a small booklet or card describing each character’s role.

   • Benefit: Enhances engagement and strategic planning.

Design Changes:

1. Add Fun Facts on Character Cards:

   • Include quirky bios or fun facts about each character. For example:

     • "The Gossip Aunty: Known for spreading the juiciest rumors in town."

   • Benefit: Adds humor and personality, making the game more memorable.

Wording and Icon Changes:

1. Increase Font Size:

   • Players reported difficulty reading the small text on some cards. Increase the font size for clarity.

   • Benefit: Improves accessibility for players of all ages.

Key Observations from the Fifth Playtest

1. Accessibility for New Players:

   • The quick-reference cards were highly effective in helping our friend understand the power card mechanics without needing to consult the full rulebook. This validated their importance for new players, especially in casual settings.

   • However, while the updated rulebook was clearer, our friend suggested the addition of a visual flowchart to better illustrate the sequence of play, indicating that further simplifications could improve accessibility.

2. Environment Impact:

   • Testing the game in the lively and slightly noisy Student Life Center provided valuable insights into how it performs in a casual, real-world environment. Despite the distractions, the enlarged icons and symbols on the power cards were easy to recognize and helped maintain gameplay flow.

   • This setting confirmed that the game is well-suited for social and group environments but highlighted the need for visual clarity in all game elements.

3. Power Card Mechanics:

   • The one-power-card-per-round limitation was praised for adding balance and encouraging strategic decision-making. Our friend noted that this rule made gameplay feel fair and competitive without being overwhelming.

   • Duo-powered cards, with their reversed colors and toggle icons, were intuitive and easy to use. This confirmed that the design improvements made after earlier playtests were successful.

4. Card Handling and Quality:

   • The matte-finished cards received positive feedback for their improved handling and shuffle-ability, which enhanced the overall tactile experience. This validated our choice of materials for future iterations.

5. Aesthetic and Symbol Design:

   • The updated Sabotage card symbol (broken chain icon) was well-received, with our friend finding it clear and fitting with the game’s lighthearted tone. This confirmed that our aesthetic changes aligned well with the overall theme.

6. Engagement and Interaction:

   • The gameplay encouraged lively discussions and strategic planning, particularly when it came to using power cards. This demonstrated that the game is engaging and fosters interaction, which is key for a social card game.

7. Rulebook Improvements:

   • While much improved, the rulebook could benefit from additional visual aids, such as a step-by-step flowchart or example scenarios. This would make it even easier for first-time players to grasp the rules quickly.

8. Play Environment:

   • Testing in a more casual and open setting confirmed that the game can adapt well to different environments. However, it also reinforced the importance of making all game components as intuitive as possible for players who may not have the luxury of focusing entirely on the game.

Key Observations

1. Rule Adjustments:

   • The newly introduced "exchange two cards" rule received mixed feedback. Some players appreciated the added strategic depth, while others found it slightly disruptive to their long-term strategies.

   • A few players struggled to remember the conditions for activating duo-powered cards, indicating a need for clearer in-game reminders or visual cues.

2. Card Usability:

   • The updated duo-powered cards with motifed backgrounds were well-received. Players found them easier to identify during gameplay, reducing confusion and improving the flow of turns.

   • Some feedback suggested the icons for duo-powered cards could be slightly larger for better visibility in fast-paced scenarios.

3. Gameplay Balance:

   • The new adjustments to power card quantities (e.g., increasing "Take That" cards) led to more frequent interaction and competition between players. This increased engagement but also made some rounds feel overly chaotic for newer players.

4. Aesthetic Appeal:

   • Players praised the consistency and clarity of the designs. The floral motifs and color-coded card categories were particularly appreciated for their cultural charm and usability.

   • Some players mentioned that the kuih illustrations were delightful but suggested more intricate details to make the cards feel even more premium.

5. Player Engagement:

   • The addition of the "Hungry Amoi" and other character cards enhanced the thematic appeal and added humor to the game, keeping players engaged and entertained throughout.

Comments

1. Rule Clarifications:

   • Consider adding a quick-reference guide or a simplified rule card for new players to quickly grasp the conditions for activating duo-powered cards and using power cards effectively.

2. Icon and Text Adjustments:

   • Slightly enlarge the action icons and numbers on duo-powered cards to ensure they remain clearly visible, especially in dim lighting or fast-paced play.

3. Gameplay Tuning:

   • Reevaluate the balance of power cards to ensure that rounds remain engaging without becoming overly chaotic, particularly for players new to the game.

4. Design Enhancements:

   • While the current card designs are visually appealing, consider adding finer details or textures to the kuih illustrations to elevate their premium feel.

5. Player Accessibility:

   • Incorporate tutorial rounds or a short demonstration video in the rulebook or as a QR code on the box to make it easier for new players to get started.

Key Observations

1. Appealing Visuals 

• The color reflected very well on the matte glossy paper and the packaging size is just right as well. The rule sheet has colors that stood out vibrantly which matches the overall theme of the game. 

2. Product Pictures 

• The final outcome of the card is suitable to take product pictures to feature in our e -portfolio. 

Key Features of the First Iteration

1. Thematic Representation:

   • The cards creatively feature traditional Malaysian elements such as "Big Round Plate", "Kueh Kadar", and "RM Bills", adding a cultural dimension to the game.

   • The use of specific objects and food items enhances the game’s local identity and uniqueness.

2. Color Coding:

   • Each card type is color-coded (pink, green, purple), making it easy to differentiate between categories. This aids gameplay recognition and clarity.

3. Symbol Placement:

   • Numerical values and symbols are placed prominently at the top-left and bottom-right corners, ensuring they are visible regardless of how the cards are held.

4. Illustrative Artwork:

   • The illustrations of the items are simple yet detailed enough to convey the theme effectively. The art style is approachable and matches the lighthearted tone of the game.

5. Cultural Labels:

   • The use of labels like "Coin," "Strings," and "Myriad" paired with their colloquial counterparts (e.g., "Big Round Plate," "Kueh Kadar") makes the game accessible and relatable to both local and non-local audiences.

Normal Cards

1. Expanded Nyonya Plate Colors:

   • The plates now come in three distinct colors (pink, yellow, and green), adding visual variety and aiding differentiation between card types.

2. Border with White Middle:

   • The new border design features subtle patterns and a clean white center, creating a polished frame that highlights the plate illustrations while improving readability.

3. Simplified Layout:

   • Descriptive labels like "Big Round Plate" were removed, streamlining the design and keeping the focus on the artwork and numerical values.

4. Prominent Numbers:

   • Numerical values are placed in all four corners for easy visibility, regardless of how the card is held.

5. Cultural Consistency:

   • The use of intricate plate designs and subtle patterns reflects the cultural theme, adding depth and authenticity.

Duo-Powered Cards

1. Patterned Background:

   • A light pink floral motif distinguishes duo-powered cards from normal ones, ensuring players can quickly identify their dual functionality.

2. Dual Function Icons:

   • Icons like a hand symbol or action indicators represent the card’s power abilities, while the numbers maintain their role as part of normal sets, clarifying the card’s dual purpose.

3. Retained Nyonya Plate Colors:

   • The three plate color variants (pink, yellow, and green) are consistent with the normal cards, ensuring cohesion while adding functionality.

4. Improved Visibility:

   • The patterned background enhances contrast with the card’s icons and numbers, balancing clarity and thematic richness.

5. Strategic Usability:

   • The distinct background and icons allow players to immediately recognize the card’s special role, improving gameplay flow and strategy development.

Key Features of the Dollar Bill Normal and Duo Cards

1. Expanded Designs for Normal Cards:

   • The normal cards feature three distinct illustrations representing increasing values:

     • Two loose bills for the lowest value.

     • One stack of bills for the mid-range value.

     • Two stacks of bills for the highest value.

   • This progression ensures clear and intuitive value representation during gameplay.

2. Motifed Background for Duo Cards:

   • Duo cards are enhanced with a purple floral motif background, distinguishing them from normal cards and visually communicating their dual functionality.

   • The background ties in with the cultural theme of the game while maintaining a cohesive design across the deck.

3. Consistent Color Scheme:

   • Both normal and duo cards feature a cohesive purple color theme, aligning with the RM Bill concept and enhancing the visual identity of this card category.

4. Enhanced Visual Appeal:

   • The clean white center of the normal cards highlights the illustrations, while the duo cards’ patterned background adds depth and richness without overpowering the design.

   • Subtle floral borders on both card types further unify the aesthetic and contribute to the cultural storytelling.

5. Dual Function Icons on Duo Cards:

   • Duo cards include clear icons to indicate their dual abilities, ensuring players can quickly identify and strategize their use.

   • The numerical values remain consistent across both card types, preserving clarity and usability.

6. Cultural and Functional Relevance:

   • The RM Bills design resonates with the local context, while the progression of bill stacks and motifed backgrounds adds a layer of sophistication and cultural authenticity.

7. Numerical Visibility:

   • Numbers are prominently placed in all four corners for both normal and duo cards, ensuring readability from any angle.

Key Features of the Kuih Normal and Duo Cards

Kuih Normal Cards

1. Expanded Variety of Kuih:

   • Introduced three distinct types of traditional kuih:

     • Kuih Dadar (1 value): A pandan-flavored crepe filled with sweet coconut.

     • Kuih Lapis (2 value): A colorful layered kuih in red, green, and white.

     • Pulut Tai Tai (3 value): A glutinous rice kuih with blue butterfly pea flower swirls, served with kaya.

2. Cultural Significance:

   • Each kuih reflects traditional Malaysian delicacies, adding a layer of authenticity and cultural depth to the game.

3. Simple and Clean Layout:

   • White background with a subtle green floral border that frames the kuih illustrations, ensuring focus and readability.

4. Prominent Numerical Indicators:

   • Numbers are displayed in all four corners for easy identification, regardless of card orientation.

5. Consistent Aesthetic:

   • A cohesive green color theme ties all the kuih cards together, aligning with the cultural and thematic identity of the game.

Kuih Duo-Powered Cards

1. Motif-Patterned Background:

   • A subtle, light green floral motif background distinguishes the duo-powered cards from the normal ones while maintaining thematic consistency.

2. Dual Functionality Icons:

   • Action icons such as hand (favor) and swap arrows (exchange) clearly indicate the power card abilities, enhancing gameplay clarity.

3. Enhanced Cultural Aesthetic:

   • Retained the same kuih illustrations (Kuih Dadar, Kuih Lapis, Pulut Tai Tai) to maintain visual consistency and thematic continuity with the normal cards.

4. Layered Design for Visual Hierarchy:

   • The patterned background and action icons are balanced to emphasize both the kuih illustration and the dual functionality of the card.

5. Strategic Gameplay Design:

   • The distinct motif background and clear action icons make these cards easily recognizable, helping players strategize their moves effectively.