Free Save

Ludic Temporal Structure persistence_reversibility · free_save

The agents decide at any time when a recoverable state is created. Reversibility lies in the agents’ hands. Maximal control – with the downside that free saving can soften risk and consequence (save-scumming).

Design question – Do players decide themselves when the state is saved – and does this give rise to “save-scumming”?

Reference example – Baldur’s Gate 3: quicksave before every tricky conversation – and reload if it goes wrong. Fallout: save before picking the lock, go back if it fails. At the table there is no free saving.

Compatible with

• Plateau (DU-03) – Recourse at any time lowers peak tension.
• Wave (DU-02) – A self-directed rhythm of risking and saving.
• Branching Narrative (NA-10) – Trying out different paths.