Phase Based

Ludic Temporal Structure articulation · phase_based

The process is divided into qualitatively different sections. In different phases different Regulations apply, different Actions are available or the conditions change. Phases differentiate the action space – they determine not who acts but what is possible.

Design question – Does what players may do change over the course of play – are there qualitatively different sections?

Reference example – Werewolf: at night the werewolves act in secret, by day the village debates and votes. XCOM: base building and missions follow entirely different rules. Football: after extra time the penalty shootout decides – under entirely different rules.

Compatible with

• Jo-Ha-Kyū (DU-08) – A classic three-phase pattern.
• Wave (DU-02) – Phases as alternations of tension.
• Crescendo (DU-01) – When later phases are more intense.
• Three-Act Structure (NA-01) – Phases as acts.
• Hero’s Journey (NA-02) – Departure, trial, return as phases.