“Effective Communication in College Relationships” Final Reflection

In the first draft of my game, I received feedback suggesting that I should provide more precise background information to better direct players’ choices and to create more realistic scenarios. To address this, I added some background details to enhance understanding; however, I kept the opportunity for players to make choices based on their own decisions, as the goal of the game is for players to learn from their experiences.

To make the game more relatable (which was another comment I got), I chose to focus on communication within college relationships, rather than keeping it general. This specificity helps players who are students relate to the scenarios which makes them more relevant. I edited my Google Form using the same link as before, so I can’t share the previous version with only three scenarios, but I am happy to provide the previous content I used below.

Reflecting on the process, I feel that if I had more time, I would have liked to think through my scenarios more deeply to make them more engaging. Additionally, I would have liked to make it more personal as I myself experienced difficulties in a past relationship and wanted to include more situations similar to what I experienced.

Nevertheless, I gave my specific ideas to AI, and with adjustments, I reached a satisfying result in my opinion. I’m happy to have been able to create a whole game on Google Docs, especially since I initially viewed this as a challenging assignment at the beginning of the semester. The process of creating the game taught me patience and encouraged me to use Google Docs for future courses since I learned how to use it effectively.

 

First version:

“CHOICES IN RELATIONSHIPS

Relationships can be one of the most fulfilling parts of our lives, but they also require care, effort, and understanding. At the heart of every healthy relationship lies two essential elements: communication and empathy. How we respond to everyday situations—whether joyful, frustrating, or unexpected—shapes the connection we build with our partner.

The game you’re about to play explores the dynamics of a relationship through a series of interactive scenarios. Each situation will test your ability to navigate communication, express feelings, and balance your own needs with those of your partner.

What to Expect:

  • Scenario-Based Choices: You’ll be presented with ten situations involving a hypothetical partner. Each one reflects common relationship challenges.
  • Multiple Response Options: For every situation, you’ll choose from three possible reactions. Your choice will determine how effectively you handle the situation.
  • Reflection & Growth: If you choose a response that might strain the relationship, the game will gently explain why it might not be ideal and ask you to try again. If your response is correct, you will be sent to the next situation.

This game is about exploring how small choices can lead to big changes in a relationship. You’ll learn to spot patterns in behavior, reflect on communication styles, and gain insight into what makes a partnership thrive.

Are you ready?

Scenario 1: The Late Partner

You’ve planned a date night with your partner at your favorite restaurant. You arrive first, excited for the evening, but after 10 minutes of waiting, they text:
“Hey, sorry, stuck in traffic. I’ll be 30 minutes late. Really sorry!”

How do you respond? (i had changed the order of answers on google docs)

  1. WRONG: “You’re always late! Can’t you ever plan better? This is so annoying.”
    • Feedback: While it’s natural to feel upset, responding this way might escalate the situation. Criticizing your partner when they’re already apologizing can make them defensive and create unnecessary tension.
  2. WRONG: “It’s fine, no big deal.” (But when they arrive, you seem distant and don’t talk much.)
    • Feedback: Saying “it’s fine” without meaning it might avoid conflict at first, but your behavior later can make the atmosphere awkward. It’s better to address your feelings upfront in a calm way.
  3. RIGHT: “Okay, no worries. Drive safe. Let’s enjoy dinner when you get here.”
    • Feedback: This is a positive and understanding response. You acknowledge the delay without making it a bigger issue, which helps set a comfortable tone for the evening when your partner arrives.

Scenario 2: The Forgotten Anniversary

A few days after your date, you realize it’s your anniversary. You’ve been looking forward to celebrating, but your partner hasn’t mentioned it all day. Around lunchtime, they call and say:
“Hey… I just realized it’s our anniversary today. I’m so sorry I forgot. How can I make it up to you?”

How do you respond?

  1. WRONG: “Seriously? You didn’t even remember? Do I have to remind you of everything?”
    • Feedback: Expressing frustration is understandable, but framing it as a criticism might make your partner feel worse or shut down the conversation. A constructive tone can lead to a more meaningful resolution.
  2. WRONG: “It’s okay, don’t worry about it.” (But you feel disappointed and quietly resentful.)
    • Feedback: Downplaying your feelings might avoid conflict, but bottling up your disappointment can create tension later. Your partner won’t know how important the day was to you if you don’t express it.
  3. RIGHT: “I was looking forward to celebrating, but I appreciate you owning up. Let’s plan something special soon!”
    • Feedback: This response strikes a balance between expressing your feelings and showing understanding. You give your partner an opportunity to make it up to you, which can strengthen your connection.

Scenario 3: The Night Out with Friends

The following weekend, your partner mentions during breakfast:
“Hey, some of my friends want to grab drinks tonight. I was thinking of joining them. Is that okay with you?”

You’d been hoping for a quiet night together but hadn’t shared that with them yet.

How do you respond?

  1. WRONG: “Sure, go ahead. I’ll just stay home.” (But later, you feel hurt and start ignoring their texts.)
    • Feedback: While it’s nice to let your partner see their friends, not communicating your own feelings can lead to misunderstandings. Ignoring them afterward might seem passive-aggressive, which could cause unnecessary conflict.
  2. WRONG: “I was hoping we’d spend time together tonight, but I guess your friends are more important.”
    • Feedback: Sharing your feelings is good, but framing it as a guilt trip might make your partner feel bad or pressured. This approach could lead to resentment on both sides instead of a productive conversation.
  3. RIGHT: “That sounds fun! I’d been hoping for a quiet night together, though. Maybe we can plan one soon?”
    • Feedback: This is a thoughtful response that communicates your feelings without placing blame. You’re showing flexibility and understanding while ensuring your needs are also acknowledged.”