How to Win Every Game, with Marcus du Sautoy, Part Two
Intelligence Squared
Deep Dive
Why did Bridge become more popular among women compared to Whist?
Bridge introduced a verbal bidding round that allowed players to communicate with their partners, making the game more social and engaging. This shift from the silent nature of Whist attracted more women, as the social aspect of games is often important to them.
What is the significance of the game Wingspan in the context of women game developers?
Wingspan, developed by a woman, represents a shift in game design away from traditional war-themed games. It focuses on nature, allowing players to collect birds and eggs in a sanctuary, reflecting a different storytelling approach and aesthetic that appeals to a broader audience.
How did Marcus du Sautoy's family experience with Dungeons & Dragons reflect the challenges of playing complex games?
Marcus's family struggled with Dungeons & Dragons due to its complexity and the lack of understanding of the rules. The game involved moral dilemmas, such as cutting off an ogre's head while it was asleep, which led to discomfort and ultimately caused them to stop playing.
What is Marcus du Sautoy's strategy for winning Monopoly?
Marcus suggests buying all the properties in the orange region of the Monopoly board, as these are the most frequently landed-on squares after jail. By building hotels there, players can bankrupt opponents quickly and win the game.
How has AI influenced the game of Go?
AI, particularly AlphaGo, revolutionized Go by introducing new strategies that even top human players hadn't considered. For example, a seemingly unconventional move in Move 37 of a match against Lee Sedol became pivotal, demonstrating AI's ability to innovate and change how humans play the game.
What are Marcus du Sautoy's top three favorite games and why?
Marcus's favorite ancient game is Backgammon, which combines strategy and chance, making it accessible to beginners. His modern choice is The Settlers of Catan, praised for its social and strategic elements. His futuristic pick is The Glass Bead Game, a conceptual game from literature that synthesizes knowledge across disciplines, reflecting his passion for integrating diverse fields.
How does cheating sometimes become an accepted part of games like Truco?
In Truco, players developed personal signaling systems, such as winking, to communicate their cards to partners. Over time, these 'cheats' became an accepted and fun part of the game, adding a layer of strategy and interaction.
- Men and women have different approaches to game design and play styles.
- Bridge, initially a male-dominated game, saw increased female participation with the introduction of a verbal bidding round.
- Women game developers are creating new game styles that differ from traditional male-dominated themes.
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