(x/post) Triple Triad in RPG Maker.  I didn't spend too much on this one (or, actually I did and didn't make much progress) as I wasn't sure how much of it was originally coded or anything and it seemed like a lot of work just to see how the narrative was going.  I think it needed more carrot and a better way to tie into the theme (along with a faster way to progress).  Seemed to be fine if you want to play a bit of Triple Triad through RPG Maker though!

Pros:

• Impressively broad
• Simple yet well explored puzzle design
• Whole buncha art and dialogue

Cons:

• In general a bit slow (dialog option for accepting a match takes seconds to show)
• Whole lotta RPG maker stuff that isn't used yet remains in-game

Misc:

I had to read the game page which isn't visible through these jam pages (Why, itch, why?) in order to realize how to play. After I got it though, it was good. There's a lot here in terms of raw content with dialogue and art for the intro/cutscene stuff. I loved the cameos, though I admit I have no clue who Barb is. I played a handful of random NPCs, never once getting to go first, and then realized the Convention Center was where I needed to go. I beat a couple people there then started the finale. I beat Hanks first try thanks to accidentally deft strategy. But then tragedy. I went to hit PrtSc to take a screenshot but instead accidentally hit F12. Because fate is a horrible demon, this resets the game. I hadn't saved, and attempted to start over, but as of right now I'm too annoyed with myself. I'll give it another go to see the ending, but in the meantime, very well done. It's an interesting idea for a puzzle/card game, though the 3x3 board feels a bit small, there's little in the way of shifting momentum or building to more complex strategy, but for a jam game it's a neat experience and the fact that there are rule variations bring a lot to the table, no pun intended.

I can't tell if I'm just dumb, but I can't find anyone to fight with! The only way I can find to progress is to talk to the guys from the beginning? But then they put you against people who seem to be really out of your league at the beginning.