ABSTRACT
Humans are pattern-seeking creatures, which perhaps explains why so many games incorporate some version of set collection. The rich math behind the set collection makes it a great tool for designers, but just as important for its popularity is the thematic consonance and intuitiveness of the set collection. Set Valuation is the logic or underlying mathematical model by which designers assign values to sets of game elements. A less-punishing valuation provides that singleton cards have some basic value of their own. Tile-Laying is typically thought of as its own mechanism or family of mechanisms, and that perspective is reasonable. Network Building is a specialized kind of set collection in which the sets collected represent ties between nodes, often represented as routes between destinations. Games with Combo potential usually have a modular, black-box approach to actions, which tend to be direct and non-contingent.
