*How to do R&D as an indie developer *

As an indie developer, the key to successful research and development (R&D) is to approach it with an exploratory mindset. Rather than relying solely on what you've been told or assuming you know where you're going, immerse yourself in the unknown and gather firsthand experience. Think of it like being dropped into a wilderness, where you have the freedom to explore different paths and discover new ideas. This involves putting on a metaphorical backpack and venturing into the wilderness, trying out various projects and technologies without the pressure of creating a polished end product. The goal is to gather as much information and knowledge as possible. By going down 'wrong' or unexpected paths, you can stumble upon valuable insights and unique features that you may not have considered initially. This approach also helps to avoid wishful thinking and misunderstandings that can arise from relying too heavily on descriptions or assumptions. Once you have gathered a backpack full of information, you can then sit down and assess your discoveries, choosing which ideas have the most potential and are worth pursuing further. This 'backpack-driven development' approach allows you to react to real experiences rather than relying on theories. Remember, R&D is an ongoing process of exploration and learning, so don't be afraid to pivot or discard ideas along the way. Embrace the unknown and let your discoveries guide your development journey.