Fast-track your prototyping and get your game played.
We've all heard it: 'I have a brilliant game idea!' It's a phrase that's as common as it is misleading. The truth is, a great game idea is just the beginning. Most games live and die in the transition from mind to table. In a world of "Kill Your Darlings" being a mantra, it can feel scary to bring the game from your mind's view to the physical space. Imagine a world where every game concept was a surefire hit. It would be a game designer's paradise. But the reality is far harsher. The leap from imagination to reality is fraught with challenges. Unlike a novel or a film, a game is an interactive experience. It’s about the cards' feel, the dice's weight, and the thrill of a strategic manoeuvre. It's about the shared experience around the table. This is where prototyping comes in. It's the bridge between the mind and the marketplace.
So How do we do that? Maybe you've spent hours cutting cardboard, crafting components from old cereal boxes, and drawing game boards on rolls of paper. I know I have. Today, we have tools at our fingertips. Print-on-demand services let us transform digital designs into physical components overnight. 3D printers bring game pieces to life with incredible precision. And digital platforms like Tabletop Simulator and Tabletopia allow us to prototype virtually, sharing our games with players around the world. But prototyping isn't just about creating physical components. It's about testing, refining, and iterating. By rapidly creating and testing different versions of our games, we can identify what works, and what doesn’t, and make the necessary adjustments.
I learned this firsthand during Micro Game May. Me and my partner had a grand vision for a space trading microgame. Armed with nothing but blank cards, coloured pens, and a handful of cubes, we dove in. Our initial concept seemed promising, but it fell flat when we played the game. By quickly prototyping the core mechanics, we realised that our initial idea needed a complete overhaul. This saved us countless hours and resources that would have been wasted on a game that simply wasn't.. fun.
How can you take this lesson forward in your own design? Our experience with the space-trading microgame highlighted the importance of this iterative process. The sooner you bring the game to the table, the faster you can enhance it. To facilitate this, digital platforms like Tabletop Simulator and Tabletopia have become invaluable tools. These platforms allow for rapid iteration, remote playtesting, and gathering essential feedback.
Are you ready for player feedback?
This is a question I often pose to my clients before diving into playtesting. It's essential to approach feedback with an open mind. Not every piece of criticism will be constructive, but even negative feedback can offer valuable insights. Playtesting sessions can be nerve-wracking, but they are indispensable. Observing how players interact with your game can reveal unexpected challenges, identify areas for improvement, and confirm what's working. From local game stores to online platforms, there are countless opportunities to gather feedback from a diverse player base
But how do you ensure you're getting the most out of playtesting? It all starts with asking the right questions. See our playtesting feedback questionnaire.
Diversity is Key: Gamers come in all shapes, sizes, and experience levels. What excites one player might baffle another. Recently, I worked with a client who had a plus/minus one penalty/bonus mechanic in their game. During playtesting, players consistently found it confusing and cumbersome. After removing it, the game flowed much smoother and the core balance remained intact. This experience highlights the importance of playtesting with a diverse group. It can help identify unnecessary complexities that might hinder your game's accessibility
Beyond traditional playtesting, we can use technology to gain deeper insights into our games. AI simulations can create virtual players with diverse skills and playstyles. By observing their behavior, we can identify potential game imbalances, exploits, or strategies we hadn't considered. Data analysis takes this further. By tracking player choices, win rates, and game metrics, we can uncover patterns and trends. This data-driven approach helps us refine game mechanics, balance difficulty, and create a more engaging experience for all players. It's important to note that AI and data analysis shouldn't replace human playtesting. Instead, these tools can enhance our efforts, saving us countless hours on calculations and simulations while allowing us to focus on the creative aspects of game design.
While marketing is essential for reaching a wider audience, building a strong community around your game is equally crucial. A thriving community is more than just a numbers game; it's a foundation for long-term success. Product evangelists — those passionate fans who become your biggest advocates — are invaluable assets. They drive sales, generate word-of-mouth marketing, and create a buzz around your game. Cultivating a community where these fans can connect with each other and the creators is essential for fostering this loyalty. Discord and Facebook groups are excellent platforms for building a community. These spaces allow for direct interaction between fans and creators, facilitating feedback, playtesting, and a sense of belonging. Regular engagement and scheduled events are key to keeping the community active and thriving. In addition to fostering a sense of belonging, a strong community can be a powerful tool for playtesting. By involving your community in the development process, you can gather valuable feedback, identify potential issues, and create a game that truly resonates with your target audience. By co-creating with your community, you're more likely to build a game that they love and are eager to share with others. Remember, while sales numbers are undeniably important, the strength of your community can significantly impact your game's long-term success. Investing in community building is an investment in the future of your game.
Kickstarter and other crowdfunding platforms have revolutionized the way games are funded and brought to market. By connecting directly with your audience, you can gauge interest, build anticipation, and secure the necessary funds to produce your game. A strong community is essential for a successful crowdfunding campaign. A recent project we worked on, OROS, is a prime example. This innovative, puzzle-like board game that simulated tectonic plate movements and topological changes to our earth mantel had been in development for years, with extensive playtesting involving the community. This deep engagement not only refined the game but also created a passionate fanbase ready to support the Kickstarter campaign. As a result, OROS raised an impressive $300,000. By combining a well-crafted game, a dedicated community, and a compelling crowdfunding campaign, you can turn your game idea into a reality.
Remember, game development is an iterative process. By embracing prototyping, playtesting, and community building, you can increase your chances of creating a successful game that leaves a lasting impact on players worldwide. Notes:
This speech was delivered during Assembly Summer 2024 and shared here to reach a wider audience. As soon as the recording is live, it will be added here.
Comments