Before the first puzzle
This checklist is editorial strategy, not a claim about hidden mechanics. It gives each observation a place so you can tell a real clue from a hunch.
- Create two save roles.Keep one progress save and one experiment save; do not overwrite both after a major choice.
- Start a three-column note.Write “seen,” “tried,” and “result” so repeated symbols and failed interactions remain distinguishable.
- Scan in a fixed order.Move left to right, foreground to background, then revisit after dialogue or a state change.
- Change one variable.When testing a choice, keep the surrounding sequence stable so the result teaches you something.
- Capture the branch.Before an irreversible-looking commitment, note the save, choice, and later ending/achievement name.
When stuck for five minutes
- Re-read the most recent dialogue or objective.
- Return to the last room that visibly changed.
- Test one unresolved interaction from your notes.
- Use the act-level overview for orientation, not as a fabricated room solution.
Evidence discipline
Record direct play separately from a community tip. A community lead becomes a definitive instruction only after it is reproduced or supported by an official source.