Board Game Discussion - Asymptotes in Games
9Time for a calculus lesson! Well, not really, but also sort of. More like algebra 2. That aside, today we're talking about limits in games - victory point/rounds/tableau placement/that kind of thing. In THEORY, what are the highest values that can be achieved? Is it EVER possible, and how? Why does it matter? Let's discuss!
In math, an asymptote represents a function's limitation - a value which would render the function invalid due to a number of reasons. In the context of board games, let's think in terms of points and winning. Given no obstacles, how many points COULD you get in a game of Tzolk'In? Gloom? How quickly can you win at abstract games such as Chess, Onitama, and Hive? At the very least, it seems an interesting thing to consider.
That said, why does it matter? Looking at it from a development and teaching perspective, a theoretical maximum, by definition, won't be reached unless you're playing with non-participants. Cut the number in half, or a third, or a fourth. That may be a good means of helping new folks understand what a "good" score is in something they've never played. Developmentally, how do you track things? How big of a track is needed? All important questions to consider.
As always, though, I mostly want to know what YOU all think! Is the concept of a theoretical maximum of points something you think about? Essentially min/maxing (Munchkin'ing) every game possible? Do you think it'd be useful when teaching new players? Let me know in the comments!
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