Spring 2026 - SHORTLISTED

Shelf Control Card Game

This game design project investigated the idea of “experiential systems as packaging,” focusing on how a game can serve a purpose beyond entertainment. The result, Shelf Control, was created to strengthen players’ connection to the act of reading and collecting books by transforming literary engagement into a playful, social experience. Through satirical twists on familiar book titles and specialty cards that spark interaction, the game invites players to think strategically while engaging with the world of books in a lighthearted way. The project began with defining a clear and meaningful purpose—one strong enough to anchor the game’s mechanics and drive player engagement. From this foundation, the rules were drafted to ensure the gameplay remained intuitive, accessible, and enjoyable. With purpose and structure established, the design phase focused on translating the essence of the game into visual elements that reinforce its theme. The final outcome presents a cohesive experience in which the act of reading and building bookshelves becomes central to play, offering an imaginative blend of strategy, humor, and literary appreciation.