puzzle-design-kb/todos/TODOS.md

TODO List for KQVI Puzzle Dependencies Rework

8 Critical Feedback Points to Address

1. mdbook Mermaid Configuration

• Add mermaid support to book.toml
• Verify diagram renders with mdbook build

2. Actions vs Outcomes as Separate Nodes

• "Talk to ferryman" and "get rabbit's foot" must be SEPARATE nodes
• Every action and outcome must be distinct nodes

3. Individual Item Acquisition Nodes

• "Receive coin" and "receive ring" must be separate nodes
• Every individual item/event has its own outcome node

4. Organize by Lands/Areas

• Group nodes by geographical area
• Isle of Sacred Mountain, Isle of Wonder, etc.
• Show proper cross-area dependency hierarchy

5. Problem-Solution Flow (FIX BACKWARDS STRUCTURE)

• Current: Problem is prevented first (WRONG)
• Should be: Solution steps lead TO problem resolution
• Structure: START --> Prereqs --> Recognize Problem --> Solution Steps --> Problem Resolved

6. Complete Puzzle Inventory from Walkthroughs

• Read all 4 KQVI walkthroughs
• Create checklist of ALL puzzles in the game
• Verify each puzzle appears in the chart
• Document any missing puzzles

7. Mechanic Note on 4 Items (Locked Choice)

• Document: paint brush, nightingale, tinderbox, flute are LOCKED CHOICE
• Each unlocked by trading one for another
• For dependency graph: treat each as UNLOCKED
• Focus on locks and keys, not mini-game trading

8. Modern, Legible Styling

• Fix contrast and colors
• WCAG accessibility minimums
• Clean color palette for node types
• Modern aesthetics

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Subtasks

Phase 1: Configuration & Research

• Task 1.1: Add mermaid preprocessor to book.toml
• Task 1.2: Verify mdbook build works with mermaid
• Task 2.1: Read all 4 KQVI walkthroughs
• Task 2.2: Create complete puzzle inventory checklist

Phase 2: Chart Rework

• Task 3.1: Restructure nodes - separate actions from outcomes
• Task 3.2: Create individual item acquisition nodes
• Task 3.3: Organize by geographical areas
• Task 3.4: Fix problem-solution flow direction
• Task 3.5: Apply modern styling with proper contrast

Phase 3: Verification

• Task 4.1: Cross-reference puzzle inventory against chart
• Task 4.2: Add locked choice mechanic note
• Task 4.3: Final mdbook build verification