My best game almost didn't exist

Summary

In this video, the creator shares valuable insights from their experience designing the board game 'NextStation London.' They discuss the process of game design, from early struggles to breakthrough moments, emphasizing the importance of being honest with oneself and recognizing when to pivot or stop a design that isn’t working. The creator encourages aspiring designers to persist in their craft, learn from failures, and collaborate within the community for mutual support. Ultimately, the journey of game design is portrayed as an ongoing process of growth and learning.

Takeaways

• 😀 The importance of persistence in game design: It's not about never stopping designing but about continuing to design overall.
• 😀 Failures are a part of the process: If a game isn't working, it's okay to stop and move on to something else.
• 😀 Embrace the process of learning: Every game you work on, whether successful or not, helps you grow as a game designer.
• 😀 Don't be afraid to abandon a project: Sticking with a game that's not working may hinder your development, while stopping can be a courageous decision.
• 😀 Iteration is key: Small adjustments and consistent work often lead to significant improvements in game design.
• 😀 Collaboration and feedback can accelerate growth: Sharing your experiences and receiving input can help overcome roadblocks.
• 😀 Avoid perfectionism: Striving for perfection can prevent progress, and it's more important to keep moving forward than to get everything right on the first try.
• 😀 Taking breaks can help: Stepping back from a game allows for fresh perspectives and often leads to new solutions.
• 😀 Success is not immediate: The journey of designing a great game often involves multiple failures and revisions.
• 😀 Community support is valuable: Engaging with others in the game design community fosters growth and mutual learning.

Q & A

What is the primary message Matthew Dunston wants to convey about game design?

Matthew Dunston emphasizes that becoming a better game designer is not about never stopping a particular game project but about continuously designing games. He encourages designers to give themselves the freedom to stop working on a game if it's not working rather than pushing through with frustration.

What is the significance of 'Next Station London' in Matthew Dunston’s game design journey?

'Next Station London' is a successful game that Matthew created, and it stands as an example of how iterating and refining a game idea can lead to success. The game played a key role in shaping his career and demonstrating how learning from failures is an essential part of game design.

Why does Matthew recommend stopping work on a game if it isn't working?

Matthew advises stopping work on a game if it isn't working because continuing to force a design that isn't progressing can lead to burnout and frustration. Recognizing when a game isn't working is an important skill for any designer, and sometimes the most courageous decision is to let go of a project.

What lesson does Matthew Dunston share about the concept of 'failure' in game design?

Matthew redefines failure in game design. He explains that failure is not about stopping a game project but rather about giving up on the craft of game design entirely. The key to success is not in never stopping a game but in continuing to design, learn, and evolve as a designer.

How does Matthew encourage aspiring game designers to view their creative process?

Matthew encourages aspiring game designers to view their creative process as a continuous journey. Rather than getting stuck on one idea, he suggests embracing the freedom to explore and pivot. He also highlights the importance of sharing experiences and learning from both successes and setbacks.

What was Matthew's approach to designing 'Next Station London'?

Matthew’s approach to designing 'Next Station London' was iterative. He worked on the game, revised it based on feedback, and refined it over time. The game's success came after he learned to adjust and tweak his designs based on testing and feedback.

What advice does Matthew offer about handling creative blocks or difficulties in game design?

Matthew advises designers to not force solutions when faced with creative blocks. He suggests that designers should be willing to step away or stop working on a game that isn't progressing, as this can lead to fresh ideas and a clearer perspective when revisiting the project later.

How does Matthew define success as a game designer?

Matthew defines success as a game designer not by completing a single game, but by continuously designing and improving. He sees success in the ability to learn from past projects and to keep designing, evolving, and creating new ideas.

What does Matthew suggest about sharing game design struggles with others?

Matthew suggests that aspiring game designers should share their struggles and challenges with others in the community. He believes in the power of support and collaboration, and that mutual feedback can help designers move forward in their projects.

What impact did the feedback and playtesting have on the development of 'Next Station London'?

Feedback and playtesting were critical in shaping 'Next Station London.' Matthew used playtesting as a way to identify areas of the game that weren’t working and adjust the design accordingly. This process was key in refining the game into its final successful form.