The Indie Game Development Podcast

The Truth about Game Development: Expectations vs Reality

Oct 18, 2023
Dive into the unpredictable world of indie game development with a candid look at the journey of creating a commercial game in just 90 days. Experience the clash between ambitious expectations and the harsh realities, including the complex nature of game design and the challenge of implementing upgrade systems. Discover valuable lessons about planning, work-life balance, and the importance of resilience. This exploration is a must for aspiring developers and curious minds alike, showcasing that perseverance is key in the gaming universe.
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ANECDOTE

90-Day Game Challenge And Outcome

  • Brandon and his wife set a self-imposed 90-day deadline to make a commercial game and missed it.
  • He accepted the delay rather than shipping low-quality work and learned from the experience.
ADVICE

Use Demos To Build Momentum

  • Do plan a demo release (like for Steam Next Fest) to gather wishlists and early feedback.
  • Use demos to build momentum before finishing the full game.
INSIGHT

Planning Doesn't Remove Hidden Work

  • High-level planning doesn't eliminate many lower-level design decisions that arise while implementing systems.
  • Expect those hidden decisions to consume significant time despite initial planning.
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