Methodologies and approaches for efficiently testing game concepts
Core Idea: Game prototyping strategies are deliberate approaches to creating temporary, focused implementations of game concepts that maximize learning while minimizing time and resource investment.
Key Elements
Prototyping Methodologies
- Paper Prototyping: Using physical materials (paper, cards, tokens) to test mechanics quickly
- Digital Wireframing: Creating low-fidelity digital implementations focusing on interaction
- Hybrid Prototyping: Combining digital tools with physical components
- Vertical Slice: Implementing a small section of the game at full fidelity
- Horizontal Prototype: Building a broad but shallow implementation of major systems
- Throwaway Prototyping: Creating temporary versions meant to be discarded after testing
- Evolutionary Prototyping: Gradually refining a prototype into the final product
Strategic Approaches
- Risk-First Prototyping: Targeting the riskiest or most uncertain design elements first
- Experience-Focused: Creating the minimum needed to test player experience
- System-Focused: Testing mechanics and rule interactions
- Component-Focused: Evaluating specific game pieces or interactions
- Fidelity Scaling: Starting with low fidelity and increasing as concepts prove valuable
Implementation Tools by Fidelity Level
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Low Fidelity:
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Index cards, sticky notes, paper cutouts
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Dice, tokens, pawns, and other generic components
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Whiteboard sketches and hand drawings
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Medium Fidelity:
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Google Sheets for Game Design for data and content
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Print-and-play materials with basic graphics
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Tabletop Simulator for Game Design with simple components
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Higher Fidelity:
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Dextrous Game Design Tool for consistent component design
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Custom artwork and preliminary graphic design
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Rapid Game Prototyping Workflow for integrated digital testing
Decision Framework
- Identify prototype goals: What specific questions need answering?
- Select appropriate fidelity: How polished does it need to be?
- Choose prototype scope: How much of the game needs implementation?
- Determine prototype lifespan: Throwaway or evolutionary?
- Select appropriate tools: Physical, digital, or hybrid?
Efficiency Principles
- Only prototype what you need to test
- Start with the smallest viable test
- Embrace the Fail Faster philosophy
- Document learnings systematically
- Design for rapid iteration
- Prepare to discard work and pivot
Additional Connections
- Broader Context: Game Design Process (prototyping within the full development cycle)
- Applications: Playtest Preparation (getting prototypes ready for testing)
- See Also: MVP in Game Design (minimum viable product approach)
References
- Fullerton, Tracy. "Game Design Workshop"
- Schell, Jesse. "The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses"
- Various game design blogs and tutorials on prototyping methods
#gamedesign #prototyping #gamedev #designmethodology #iteration
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