I’ve noticed this as well, although it doesn’t seem to apply in all cases. Here’s a guess about the distinction between cases:
When the puzzle seems like an obstacle to achieving the goal, I’m more likely to attempt to look up the solution. This is the case for many adventure/RPG games, where I’m mainly interested in advancing within the game, and also for the average homework assignment, where I mainly want the good grade.
When solving the puzzle is an end in itself, I’m more likely to try to keep going by myself. This is the case for games like Portal, where the puzzle is the point and is fairly fun, and also for homework or research in a topic I enjoy.
I’ve noticed this as well, although it doesn’t seem to apply in all cases. Here’s a guess about the distinction between cases:
When the puzzle seems like an obstacle to achieving the goal, I’m more likely to attempt to look up the solution. This is the case for many adventure/RPG games, where I’m mainly interested in advancing within the game, and also for the average homework assignment, where I mainly want the good grade.
When solving the puzzle is an end in itself, I’m more likely to try to keep going by myself. This is the case for games like Portal, where the puzzle is the point and is fairly fun, and also for homework or research in a topic I enjoy.