
Episode 385: Automata Design in Games
From RPG Design Panelcast by Jason Pitre
November 29, 2025 · 55 min · Episode 509
About this episode
This episode discusses the design of procedural-driven opponents in games, focusing on the concept of 'Automa' and its application in game design.
Recorded at Metatopia 2024 Presented by Jason Pitre Over the last decade, board game designers have recognized the need to have additional, procedural-driven opponents for challenge the players. The term "Automa" was coined in the 2013 game "Viticulture" by Stonemaier Games. In this panel, we will discuss the basics on how to design such procedural foes and share some advice on how to include them in your own games.
People in this episode
Host: Jason Pitre
Topics covered
- automata design
- game design
- procedural opponents
- board games
- game mechanics
Keywords
- automata
- game design
- procedural foes
- Viticulture
- Stonemaier Games
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Stonemaier Games
Books & works: Viticulture
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