From e007ebe5db614f19894164724d5e8fa985211618 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001
From: Bryce <bryce@brycecovertoperations.com>
Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 22:42:57 -0700
Subject: [PATCH] Complete: Create information-discovery-overview.md parent
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+# Information Discovery Puzzles
+
+## Domain Overview
+
+Information discovery puzzles define a family where the solution requires gathering information or items from distributed sources and synthesizing them into a complete answer. Unlike observation-based puzzles that test memory or pattern recognition, these puzzles demand active **collection** followed by **synthesis**. The player must identify what is needed, locate it across disparate locations or NPCs, then combine pieces to unlock progression.
+
+## Core Mechanic Summary
+
+All information discovery types share the pattern: **find → collect → synthesize**. The "aha" moment occurs not during gathering, but when the player realizes how collected elements connect. This domain encompasses both non-linear collection (where order doesn't matter) and linear chains (where step N enables step N+1).
+
+### Two Fundamental Patterns
+
+| Pattern | Name | Player Experience |
+|---------|------|-------------------|
+| Non-linear gathering | **Parallel** | Explore freely, collect from independent sources, synthesize at end |
+| Sequential dependency | **Sequential** | Each solution step unlocks the next in a production chain |
+
+## Child Types
+
+### Parallel Collection Patterns
+
+- **[Multi-Faceted Plan](puzzles/multi-faceted-plan.md)** — Non-linear requirement gathering where players collect independent pieces from scattered sources, then assemble them into a complete plan.
+
+- **[Information Brokerage Chains](puzzles/information-brokerage.md)** — Trading networks requiring item-for-information exchanges across multiple NPCs to reconstruct fragmented knowledge.
+
+- **[Environmental Storytelling Discovery](puzzles/environmental-storytelling.md)** — Narrative clues embedded in objects and scenes that players must examine and synthesize into coherent information.
+
+### Sequential Construction Patterns
+
+- **[Sequential Construction](puzzles/sequential-construction.md)** — Linear production chains where each step's output enables the next, including both crafting puzzles and repair/restoration sequences.
+
+### Fragment Synthesis Patterns
+
+- **[Memo Chain Fragments](puzzles/memo-chain.md)** — Distributed text fragments found in separate locations that require assembly to reveal complete messages or codes.
+
+- **[Truth Revelation Mechanic](puzzles/truth-revelation.md)** — Hidden reality revealed through using specific items or actions on key objects, exposing information invisible during normal examination.
+
+## Design Implications
+
+Understanding whether your puzzle belongs to **Parallel**, **Sequential**, or **Fragment** subtypes determines player pacing:
+
+- **Parallel types** reward exploration and encourage players to form their own collection strategy
+- **Sequential types** create progression chains where each success builds momentum toward the final solution
+- **Fragment types** focus on the satisfaction of assembly—realizing "these pieces form a whole"
+
+Each child type expands on these foundations with specific information flow patterns, failure states, and synthesis moments.