What I Wish I Would Have Known before I Got into Game Design with Jamey Stegmaier
Dec 13, 2016
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Jamey Stegmaier, Kickstarter guru and designer of Scythe, discusses what he wished he knew before getting into game design and Kickstarter. Topics include the importance of playtesting, building a community, learning from successful games, developing your own voice, strategies for Kickstarter, and the financial challenges of crowdfunding.
Creating multiple prototypes is crucial for improving a game design.
Managing hype and high expectations is essential for game designers.
Learning from feedback and focusing on improvement is more valuable than defending your work.
Budgeting and managing finances play a vital role in successful game design.
Deep dives
The Importance of Prototyping
Jamie Stegmaier emphasizes the significance of creating multiple prototypes, mentioning that the first playtest of any game is likely to be unsatisfying. He encourages designers to not be discouraged by this and to use the experience to improve their game.
Hype and Expectations
Jamie Stegmaier reflects on the impact of hype and high expectations on game designers. He discusses the need to manage and control hype, emphasizing that just because a project has been successful does not mean that specific practices or elements will guarantee success for other projects.
Handling Feedback and Reviews
Jamie Stegmaier shares his experience with handling feedback and reviews for his games. He advises designers not to get caught up in negative reviews and comments, and to focus on learning from feedback rather than feeling the need to defend their work.
Managing Finances and Budgeting
Jamie Stegmaier discusses the importance of budgeting and managing finances in game design. He explains the need to carefully plan and control expenses, taking into account manufacturing costs, shipping, and fulfillment.
The Evolution of a Designer
Jamie Stegmaier highlights the growth process of a game designer, mentioning that each game and project provides a learning experience. He encourages designers to keep refining their craft, learn from mistakes, and continue to improve their design skills.
Lessons from Kickstarter
Jamie Stegmaier shares insights gained from his experience with Kickstarter campaigns. He advises designers to keep people informed and maintain constant communication with backers. He also emphasizes the need to separate personal hype and excitement from the reality of managing a crowdfunding campaign.
Avoiding Overwhelm and Pressure
Jamie Stegmaier discusses the pressures and emotional toll that can come with success, urging designers not to give in to the pressure of expectations. He advises focusing on creating the best possible product within one's control and understanding that not everyone will like every game.
Valuing Feedback and Playtesting
Jamie Stegmaier stresses the importance of playtesting and processing feedback. He emphasizes that initial playtests are likely to have flaws, but they provide valuable opportunities for improvement. He also encourages designers to learn from other projects while recognizing that what works for one project may not work for another.
Jamey Stegmaier,Kickstarter guru and designer of Scythe, and I discuss all the things he wishes someone would have told him before he got into game design, kickstarter, publishing, and more. He gives a ton of valuable advice.
For lists of games designers should play, click HERE.
