Problem
Dexter: Red Cards explored how smell can be used to create doubt, deduction, and decision-making. I wanted players to experience the tension of trusting or questioning a sensory clue when other information might be misleading.
My Role & Process
I designed the core mechanics, wrote the rules, and created the scent clue cards and Red Cards. During testing, I watched how players interpreted unclear smells, handled false leads, negotiated with themselves, and decided when to trust instinct over logic.
"Every scent was a clue, but the interesting part was watching players decide whether the clue deserved trust."
Key Decisions & Learning
Early tests showed that some scents were too obvious while others were too confusing. Players also needed clearer instructions for using Red Cards strategically. I simplified scent categories, refined card text, and added a Final Showdown to keep tension high. This project helped me think about ambiguity as a design material: useful when it creates curiosity, risky when it blocks action.
Designing Dexter: Red Cards! taught me how to turn cognitive dissonance into gameplay. Watching players doubt their own choices showed the power of mixing sensory cues with hidden information. It reminded me that clear rules and balanced tension are essential when I want players to feel both challenged and immersed.