puzzle-design-kb/src/core-principles.md

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.