Tips for Success as a Solo Game Developer

TLDRLower your expectations and focus on the players' experience. Avoid the obvious genres and consider what players actually want. Halve the scope of your game to ensure manageability. Keep the depth and polish while scaling back on features. Focus on the simulation and world-building aspects. Prioritize the players' enjoyment over superficial visuals. Keep the game short and immersive, like a small DND session.

Key insights

💡Lower your expectations and redefine success based on your own goals and circumstances.

🚀Avoid the obvious genres and consider what players actually want to play.

🔄Halve the scope of your game to ensure it is manageable and achievable as a solo developer.

💪Focus on the depth and simulation aspects of your game to provide a unique and immersive experience.

👀Prioritize the players' enjoyment and immersion over superficial visuals and complex features.

Q&A

What is the key to success as a solo game developer?

The key to success as a solo game developer is to set realistic expectations and redefine success based on your own goals and circumstances.

Should I choose a popular genre for my game?

Instead of defaulting to popular genres, consider what players actually want and choose a niche genre that caters to their interests.

How can I manage the scope of my game as a solo developer?

To manage the scope of your game as a solo developer, halve the initial scope by cutting unnecessary features and focusing on the core gameplay and simulation aspects.

What should I prioritize in my game development process?

Prioritize the depth and immersion of your game, focusing on providing a unique and immersive experience for the players.

Do visuals and complex features matter as a solo developer?

While visuals and complex features can enhance a game, as a solo developer, it's important to prioritize the players' enjoyment and immersion over superficial aspects.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introducing tips for success as a solo game developer

09:59Choosing the right genre and managing the scope of your game

13:02Balancing complexity and depth in your game

15:13Keeping the game short and immersive