What are Least Common Denominator (LCD) games?
Forget your usual board game night, because we’re diving into a world where creativity meets logic! You might be wondering, “What on earth is a least common denominator?” Well, picture this: you’ve got a group of players with wildly different interests, personalities, and even ages. But what if there was a way to bring everyone together, build connections, and spark laughter all at the same time? Enter the world of “least common denominator” games!
The magic of LCD games lies in their ability to find common ground, even amidst the most diverse groups of people. Imagine trying to get your grandma, a cat lover, and your college friend who’s obsessed with fantasy roleplaying to all bond over a game! The key is finding that shared “denominator” – something everyone can agree on.
These games aren’t just about winning; they’re about exploring new perspectives, learning to compromise, and having fun in the process. Think of it as building a bridge between different perspectives, where everyone has a voice! LCD games do this by challenging players to think critically and creatively, fostering communication and collaboration.
The beauty of “least common denominator” games is that they come in all shapes and sizes, from classic board game adaptations like “Apples to Apples” to more elaborate party games like “What’s the Question?”
So how do you create your own LCD game?
Creating a successful LCD game involves a blend of clever ideas, strategic thinking, and an element of fun. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your own unique games:
1. **Observe Your Players:** Gather your friends or family members, and pay close attention to their interests and personalities. Do they love music? Are they fascinated by history? Observe what sparks joy and conversation among your group.
2. **Identify Common Ground:** Once you’ve identified some shared interests, brainstorm potential game concepts that bring those elements together. For example, if your players enjoy nature and art, consider creating a game where players identify different species of animals based on their unique features or create artistic representations of the landscapes.
3. **Embrace Creativity:** The core of an LCD game is its ability to bring people together around shared interests. However, don’t be afraid to deviate from traditional games and explore new ideas. A game that combines your group’s love for music with a bit of trivia could lead to a truly memorable experience.
4. **Develop Engaging Mechanics:** The gameplay should be engaging and involve some level of interaction and negotiation. This could include things like sharing information, debating opinions, or even putting skills to the test. For instance, you could include a “guess the animal” round where players have to identify animals based on their descriptions using clues.
5. **Test & Refine:** Once you’ve created your game, try it out with your friends and family! Gather feedback and see what works well and what needs adjusting. Get those creative minds involved in playtesting, and don’t be afraid to make changes along the way.
Remember, LCD games are all about finding that shared common ground, whether it’s a silly sound-alike game or an intellectual exploration of history.
