Game a month challenge — The process

I. Introduction

The #gameamonthchallenge aims to create one game per month as a creative exercise proposed by the Epic Win Publisher team. This challenge stems from our primary intention of dedicating at least 50% of our time to tasks related to game creation and development.

II. Embracing the Creative Challenge as a Business Strategy

The community is a driving force for us. As a small publisher, we want to grow in an authentic way by listening to and addressing the needs of our community.

We view this challenge as an advantage, not a burden. Each game we create is an opportunity to showcase our versatility and reach different audiences. We are eager to connect with the public, listen to the community, and build our portfolio.

III. The Monthly Creative Process

Our creativity is fueled by what surrounds us: movies, TV shows, books, and, of course, the tastes and interests of those closest to us, such as our children, nephews, and friends.

Brainstorms are always a blast, and bouncing off ideas with others is the best way to generate fresh and innovative concepts.

Prototyping

Once we define the idea, we dive straight into the prototyping process. Our goal is to have a viable prototype in less than an hour to test some mechanics while they’re still fresh. Subsequently, we contemplate the necessary adjustments to enhance the mechanics, player experience, and the visual aspect of the prototype.

Testing

Testing is continuous and follows a defined process. Initially, we focus on understanding the flow of the player experience and identifying different interactions in the game. These tests are conducted separately and analyzed in terms of thematic alignment and player experience.

Recording and Archiving

Maintaining consistent records is of utmost importance. This includes documenting decisions made and mistakes encountered since errors can teach us as much as successes. These records not only provide us with insights but also serve as content to share with those who support our success.

Game Rules

The game rules serve as the recipe for the experience we want to provide. They must be precise, explaining the game’s constraints, flow, objective, victory conditions, and endgame. Above all, they should present the game’s theme and create a gateway to the story we are telling.

IV. Conclusion

Ultimately, the process must be enjoyable. It’s not just about creating; it’s about aligning with our way of thinking, executing, and creating so that passion flows through every step.

It is in this state that the most exciting ideas emerge, and we become enthused about the creative journey. This process doesn’t guarantee a good game, but it’s the numerous iterations and starting over that lead to the satisfaction of seeing everything come together. Happy creating!