# Core Principles

These puzzle types share common characteristics that define adventure game puzzle design:

## Limited Actions, Unlimited Combinations

The standard adventure game action set (LOOK, TALK, USE, WALK, TAKE) is applied in novel ways. The puzzle emerges from the *combination* of actions, not from complex input systems.

## Information as Puzzle Element

The puzzle is often "what does the game know that I need to find out?" rather than "what do I need to do?" Information discovery is the primary mechanic.

## Failure as Feedback

Failed attempts reveal information about what's missing or wrong. The puzzle teaches through consequences, not explicit instruction.

## Synthesis Over Collection

The solution often requires combining information from multiple sources. No single action completes the puzzle—player must synthesize.