From 24403f8332c2c5d658a06d3a35b21629a552084f Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Bryce Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 22:45:33 -0700 Subject: [PATCH] Complete: Create npc-interaction-overview.md parent category page --- src/puzzles/npc-interaction-overview.md | 26 +++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1 file changed, 26 insertions(+) create mode 100644 src/puzzles/npc-interaction-overview.md diff --git a/src/puzzles/npc-interaction-overview.md b/src/puzzles/npc-interaction-overview.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6603d7b --- /dev/null +++ b/src/puzzles/npc-interaction-overview.md @@ -0,0 +1,26 @@ +# NPC Interaction & Social Puzzles + +Social puzzles center on **manipulating non-player characters** rather than objects or environments. Success comes through dialogue choices, behavioral observation, deception, timing, or understanding character-specific rules—mechanics that treat NPCs not as obstacles but as systems to be mastered. + +The core distinction: solutions require reading NPC motivations, exploiting personality traits, or triggering specific character behaviors. Unlike inventory puzzles where you combine Item A + Item B, social puzzles demand Player Action → NPC Reaction → New State. + +## Child Types + +| Type | Social Mechanic | When to Use This Pattern | +|------|-----------------|--------------------------| +| [Comedy-Based Persuasion](puzzles/comedy-based-persuasion.md) | Humor/absurdity unlocks dialogue branches | Guard or authority figure has rigid but exploitable sense of propriety | +| [Distraction & Environmental Manipulation](puzzles/distraction-physics.md) | Physical triggers divert NPC attention | NPC follows predictable patrol or sensory pathing logic | +| [Class-Specific Challenges](puzzles/class-specific-ritual.md) | Character class determines ritual solutions | Multiple entry paths exist, but each requires specific role-based trials | +| [Multi-Faction Diplomacy](puzzles/multi-faction-diplomacy.md) | Conflicting faction rules create negotiation space | Multiple stakeholders with incompatible demands must be appeased | + +## Design Space Boundaries + +**Not a Social Puzzle If:** +- The NPC merely blocks access until an item is retrieved elsewhere (that's a [Fetch Quest](puzzles/fetch-quest.md)) +- Dialogue reveals hint text but the actual solution involves physical manipulation +- Character personality is flavor-only with no mechanical impact on outcomes + +**Is a Social Puzzle When:** +- NPC has internal state that dialogue or observed behavior can modify +- Multiple approaches exist because the character responds differently based on player strategy +- Understanding the character's rules matters more than finding the "correct" answer