Hearthstone's Rules
In the Beginning Before there were card games, there was Magic: the Gathering. Every card game exists in Magic's shadow, so if I'm going to talk about Hearthstone, then I have to talk about Magic. Magic didn't start off with well designed cards, but by being first it has the best rules. It's by comparing Hearthstone's rules to Magic's that we can understand what makes them fun. Digital Magic is not a great video game. I've played it, even been hooked by it. The UI is awful, the mechanics are clunky, the price is ridiculous, and it can't compete with other computer games. It's not meant for digital. Hearthstone optimised its digital experience by setting some ground rules: No turn phases No decisions on your opponent's turn No decisions during abilities No decisions where you select: yes/no multiple objects cards numbers words ordering No objects except minions, weapons, and secrets Mana can only be used to play cards & hero powers Mini...