"Ghosts and Chairs" is a board game where you play as a ghost trying to escape a haunted mansion by possessing furniture and items, avoiding curses, absorbing blessings, and facing skill challenges
Are you ready to save your leftover soul and preserve your humanity
or will the mansion claim you as its own, slowly decaying away within its walls?

Overview

This board game was developed as my final university project, drawing inspiration from gothic folklore, nostalgic themes, and the rich storytelling of classic literature. My goal was to create an unforgettable experience, with hidden lore woven into the cards, allowing players to uncover the story at their own pace.

Design Process

For this board game, I created a unique Game Design Document (GDD) outlining the core mechanics, lore, and overall structure. I also documented my progress in a weekly blog, which you can check out here. The game design process involved extensive playtesting with both experienced board game players and those new to the hobby. My goal was to create an engaging experience that works equally well for large groups and one-on-one sessions, ensuring accessibility for all kinds of players. The mechanics emphasize flexibility, allowing players to tweak the rules, set their own goals, and shape each session into a unique and replayable experience.

Illustrations and Visual Design

Every visual element you see on my Behance and in the images here was hand-drawn – from the game box to four decks of cards, each containing 18 unique designs. Inspired by dark fairytales, I aimed to create a rich, immersive aesthetic that ties the entire game together.

Branding and Online Presence

I designed a Behance page to professionally showcase the project, highlighting key aspects of the game's development and design process. Additionally, I developed a strong branding identity, including creating a custom logo and typography, to ensure the game stands out and is easily recognizable. This comprehensive approach to branding helps in creating a lasting impression on potential players and backers.