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Comprehensive approach to creating games from concept to completion

Core Idea: The game design process encompasses the entire journey of conceptualizing, developing, refining, and producing a game, involving multiple disciplines and methodologies structured around player experience goals.

Key Elements

Phases of Game Design

1. Conceptualization

   • Idea generation and exploration
   • Core concept definition
   • Target audience identification
   • Experience goals articulation

2. Pre-Production

   • Paper prototyping and concept validation
   • Core mechanics development
   • Initial playtesting
   • Design document creation

3. Prototyping

   • Component creation (Game Design Evolution Levels)
   • Implementation of core systems
   • Iterative Design process begins
   • Application of Rapid Game Prototyping Workflow

4. Production

   • Full implementation of mechanics and systems
   • Art design and implementation
   • Extensive Playtesting Methods
   • Balancing and refinement

5. Post-Production

   • Finalization of components and rules
   • Manufacturing preparation (for physical games)
   • Distribution planning
   • Post-launch support and expansions

Key Considerations Throughout

• Player experience objectives
• Game balance and pacing
• Accessibility and complexity levels
• Thematic integration
• Economic viability
• Production constraints

Documentation Types

• Game design documents (GDDs)
• One-page design summaries
• Player rulebooks
• Reference sheets
• Technical specifications
• Art style guides

Team Roles in Game Design

• Game designers (core mechanics and systems)
• Developers (refinement and balance)
• Artists and graphic designers
• Production managers
• Playtesters and user researchers
• Publishers and marketers

Additional Connections

• Broader Context: Game Development Lifecycle (complete process including business aspects)
• Applications: Board Game Production Pipeline (manufacturing considerations)
• See Also: Video Game Design Process (comparison to digital game creation)

References

1. Tinsman, Brian. "The Game Inventor's Guidebook"
2. Tekinbaş, Katie Salen and Eric Zimmerman. "Rules of Play: Game Design Fundamentals"

#gamedesign #process #development #methodology #production

Connections:

Sources:

• From: Dave Jeltema - The Best Tool for Rapidly Prototyping Your Board Game