puzzle-design-kb/puzzles/distraction-physics.md

NPC Distraction Physics

Information Architecture: NPC follows patrol/behavior pattern that blocks access to location or item. Blocking condition is physical/spatial rather than dialogue-based: line-of-sight, proximity triggers, or path obstruction. Solution requires manipulating environment to break the blocking condition without direct confrontation.

Player Action Pattern: Observe NPC behavior loop. Identify environmental object/action that can exploit timing, physics, or AI limitations. Execute action to divert/obstruct/block NPC's attention or movement. Access previously blocked element during distraction window.

Core Mechanic: Spatial/temporal manipulation creates opportunity window. Unlike Sensory Exploitation (direct vulnerability attack like tickle/sleep), DNP exploits environment + NPC pathfinding/routine. Player becomes environmental engineer, creating puzzle in 3D space using standard actions.

Variations:

• Pull lever/activate object that NPC must investigate, breaking patrol pattern
• Create physical obstruction (object on tracks, blocking door)
• Redirect NPC attention via object manipulation (pull totem nose → monkey hangs there → NPC path rerouted)
• Timing puzzle: wait for patrol cycle gap + execute grab action in short window

Adventure Game Implementation:

• LOOK at environment to spot interaction point that affects NPC behavior
• Standard WALK/USE/PULL/PUSH actions on environmental objects
• Observe NPC AI pattern (patrol route, reaction triggers)
• Trigger environmental change → NPC reroutes or becomes occupied → access granted

Example Structure:

Blockage Phase:
→ Target [ITEM] protected by [NPC_GUARD] with patrol loop to [OBJECT]
→ Direct theft impossible ("Can't steal while watched!")

Solution Phase:
→ Examine [ENVIRONMENTAL_OBJECT] within guard's patrol path/range
→ Realize action will divert NPC attention or alter movement pattern:
  - USE object on [TRIGGER_POINT] creates distraction
  - PULL [OBJECT] physically obstructs NPC path
  - TIME window when NPC is investigating/occupies alternate location

Execution Phase:
→ Activate environment while NPC distracted → Access [ITEM] during vulnerability window
→ Distraction must be sustained or timed precisely

King's Quest VI Parallel: None identified in walkthrough.

Monkey Island Example:

• Totem Pole / Monkey Blockade:
  • Goal: Enter Giant Monkey Head interior (blocked)
  • Problem: Monkey guards it, standing on totem pole nose
  • Solution: Pull Nose down → Monkey follows and hangs from pulled-down nose → Monkey physically occupies space away from gate → Access granted
  • Distraction + spatial displacement = access

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Related Types

• Sensory Exploitation: Attacks NPC directly via vulnerability; DNP attacks NPC indirectly via environment
• Timed Consequence: Both use timing, but TC is about narrative urgency deadline while DNP creates player's own timing window
• Multi-Faceted Plan: DNP often uses simpler "one action breaks blockage" vs MFP's multi-requirement synthesis