Show HN: Boardzilla, a framework for making web-based board games (boardzilla.io)

Article summary

Boardzilla is a framework for creating web-based board games, allowing developers to express game rules and provide players with a simple interface. The platform currently hosts several games, including 7 Wonders Duel and Power Grid. Boardzilla aims to make it easy to develop and play digital board games within a browser. The project is open-source and provides a API for building games.

Main themes

• board game development
• open-source licensing
• game mechanics and copyright
• competition with existing platforms
• security features
• branding and naming
• programming languages and documentation
• self-hosting and local development

What commenters say

• The use of the Commons Clause license is criticized for being overly restrictive, and AGPLv3 is suggested as a more suitable alternative.
• The project's potential for success is hindered by the dominance of existing platforms, such as Board Game Arena, which is owned by Asmodee.
• Game mechanics cannot be copyrighted, but using similar names or artwork without permission can still be problematic.
• The project's focus on indie games and smaller publishers may be a viable way to avoid direct competition with established platforms.
• The lack of security features, such as protection against rage quitting or cheating, is a concern for the project's long-term success.
• The name 'Boardzilla' may infringe on the Godzilla copyright, and changing the name or negotiating a deal with the copyright holder may be necessary.
• The project's use of TypeScript is questioned, and the addition of more documentation and features, such as support for simultaneous actions, is seen as a positive aspect.
• The project's potential for self-hosting and local development is a valuable feature, but may not be immediately clear to users.