Designing a video game is a complex process that involves balancing mechanics, player intentions, and the game’s overall vision. To help streamline this process and ensure a satisfying player experience, we’ve compiled five game design tips that are both genre- and platform-agnostic. These tips can be applied to any type of game, from hybrid casual mobile games to hardcore triple-A PC and console titles.
While you don’t need to use all of them, understanding how each works will help you decide when to implement them. So keep reading to be up-to-date with current trends and promising ideas that are sure to pay off in some way or another!
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5 game design tips from our experts
1 – Start small
Beginning with simple projects is crucial for aspiring game designers. Instead of aiming for a masterpiece on your first attempt, focus on completing a basic game and releasing it. Opt for a minimalist art style and hyper-casual gameplay to make the process manageable. This approach allows you to learn the tools, engines, and art creation process without becoming overwhelmed. The more games you create, the better your skills will become.
2 – Play a lot of games
Playing a variety of games is essential for understanding game design. Engage with gaming forums and keep up with the latest trends by checking top charts regularly. Analyze the design, flow, UI, graphic style, and gameplay of the games you play. Studying both retro classics and modern hits will provide a comprehensive understanding of successful game design principles.
3 – Use the model & improve method
The model & improve method involves studying successful games similar to the one you wish to create. Identify what works and what could be improved, then brainstorm ways to enhance it. By adding or removing different aspects, you can create a unique game. This method allows you to use successful elements as inspiration while making enough changes to avoid copying. Always aim to innovate for exceptional game design.
4 – Create adaptive danger
Adaptive danger adjusts the difficulty of a game based on the player’s behavior, balancing challenge and fairness. This technique ensures players are not overwhelmed by offscreen enemies or unexpected threats. For example, in Devil May Cry, enemies attack only when within the player’s peripheral vision. In Uncharted, the speed at which platforms crumble adjusts based on the player’s performance, maintaining a fair challenge.
5 – Implement mirroring levels
Mirroring levels involves reusing level designs by switching the start and end points, thus creating new content with minimal effort. This technique saves time, money, and development resources while offering fresh experiences for players. Early Mario Kart games used this trick with Mirror mode, and Halo: Combat Evolved featured similar levels in ‘Two Betrayals’ and ‘Assault on the Control Room’, with the latter being flipped. This strategy keeps players engaged without them noticing the reused assets.
For further inspiration, read our 10 exciting ideas for video games to spark your creativity!
Bonus game design tips
While the above five game design tips are crucial, there are additional strategies that can further enhance your game design skills and the player experience.
Understand your audience
Knowing your target audience is essential for successful game design. Conduct market research to understand player demographics, preferences, and pain points. Tailoring your game to meet these needs increases the chances of your game being well-received; for example, if you’re designing a game for a younger audience, focus on colorful graphics, simple mechanics, and positive reinforcement.
Iterate and playtest
Iterative development and playtesting are key game design tips for creating polished games. Develop a prototype and test it with a small group of players. Gather feedback and make necessary adjustments. Repeat this process multiple times to refine your game. Playtesting helps identify issues early and ensures the game is enjoyable and bug-free.
Keep up with technology
Staying updated with the latest technology trends is vital for game designers. New tools, engines, and platforms can offer new possibilities for game design. For instance, advancements in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have opened up new avenues for immersive gameplay experiences. Incorporating cutting-edge technology can make your game stand out.
Focus on player engagement
Creating engaging and rewarding gameplay loops is a fundamental game design tip. Ensure that your game has clear goals, meaningful choices, and satisfying rewards. Design mechanics that encourage players to keep coming back, such as daily challenges, leaderboards, and social features. Engaged players are more likely to spend time and money on your game.
Learn from feedback
Feedback from players is invaluable for game designers. Listen to player reviews, comments, and suggestions. Use this feedback to make informed decisions about updates and future projects. Engaging with your player community shows that you value their input and are committed to improving their experience.
Conclusion
Incorporating these game design tips into your development process can help you create engaging, successful games in 2024. Starting small, playing a variety of games, using the model & improve method, creating adaptive danger, and implementing mirrored levels are all strategies that can streamline development and enhance the player experience.
Remember: game design is an ever-evolving field. That said, as a game development studio, we understand that nailing all aspects of game creation is no easy task – and that’s why we’re here to help you out. By working with us at Main Leaf, you can rest assured that our team of experienced game developers, designers, and artists is more than qualified to help you bring your vision to life.
Whether you’re looking to create a popular game for PC, mobile, or console, we have the knowledge and resources to help you succeed, ensuring your game will stand out in a crowded market that grows by the day.
So, if you’re ready to bring your game idea to life, request a game quote below – and let’s get started right away!
