Perfectionism is a great source of misery for me. It’s the thing that keeps me from writing a book, striking up more conversations, and trying my hand at woodcrafting. And it’s what makes me hyper-critical of the things I do do (if you think internet commenters can be mean about someone’s writing, you would weep at what I make of my own work). But from a standpoint that I’m sure no therapist would endorse, perfection can also be delightful.

When it comes to playing games, there is no shortage of ways you can achieve greatness and soak in the enjoyment that comes with that. Clearing the screen in Tetris, pulling off a sick 360 no-scope, or turning the tables and eking out a victory with a sliver of health can all be immensely satisfying experiences.

But there’s something I’ve always found about Into the Breach–and, more recently, the excellent Tactical Breach Wizards, which shares some design DNA with Into the Breach–that …