GET GAME IDEAS - The Ultimate Guide!

Summary

In this video, Jonas shares his three-step process for generating exciting indie game ideas. He emphasizes the importance of starting with a familiar concept that resonates with audiences, while introducing originality through new mechanics or twists. The key steps include defining the game's core mechanic, refining the idea with obstacles and conditions, and simplifying the concept into a one-sentence pitch. By focusing on both creativity and feasibility, Jonas offers valuable insights to help aspiring game developers craft compelling, unique game ideas that stand out in a crowded market.

Takeaways

• 😀 A good game idea is something that excites you and is of reasonable scope to execute.
• 😀 Your game idea should be easy to communicate, as complicated ideas may fail to excite others.
• 😀 Striking the right balance between familiarity and originality is key to engaging players.
• 😀 Creating an appealing fantasy, like being a dragon or managing aliens, can make a game idea more compelling.
• 😀 Emotional impact is important—games that evoke strong feelings tend to resonate more with players.
• 😀 Start with something familiar, like a popular game or a well-known genre, to ground your idea.
• 😀 Generating multiple game ideas allows you to compare them and pick the best one for development.
• 😀 Add originality to your game idea by introducing unique mechanics or changing core elements of known games.
• 😀 To develop your idea further, answer questions about gameplay mechanics, challenges, and player objectives.
• 😀 Your game’s Unique Selling Point (USP) should differentiate it from others and deliver a unique player fantasy.
• 😀 Once you have a concise one-sentence pitch, share it with others to see how they react to gauge excitement.

Q & A

What makes a game idea 'good' according to the script?

A good game idea is exciting to work on, has a reasonable scope that you can execute, appeals to a target audience, evokes emotion, is easy to communicate, and balances familiarity with originality.

How can you generate game ideas that excite others, not just yourself?

To excite others, the game idea must be easy to communicate. If it takes too long to explain, it becomes hard to generate excitement. The game should also be familiar yet original, with a clear and appealing fantasy.

What role does familiarity play in a game idea?

Familiarity helps make the game more approachable and allows you to leverage positive emotions associated with known concepts. However, too much familiarity can make the game feel unoriginal, so striking a balance is key.

Why is evoking emotion important in a game idea?

Evoking emotion makes the game more compelling. A game that triggers strong feelings, like fear or excitement, creates a deeper connection with the player, enhancing engagement and appeal.

What is the first step in the three-step process for generating game ideas?

The first step is to start with something familiar, such as a popular game genre, a real-life scenario, or a known concept. This helps you quickly form an idea and build from there.

Why is it important to come up with multiple game ideas?

Generating multiple ideas allows you to compare them based on criteria like scope, target audience, and emotional impact. It's easier to refine and choose the best idea when you have a variety of options to consider.

How can you make a game idea more original?

You can make a game idea more original by adding new core mechanics, modifying familiar gameplay concepts, or changing key elements like setting, time, or the player's role. You can also break established norms within the genre.

What are the key questions to answer when refining a game idea?

When refining a game idea, answer questions like: What obstacles does the player overcome? What is the victory condition? What is the losing condition? What is the core mechanic or main decision the player makes?

What is a Unique Selling Point (USP) and why is it important?

A USP is what makes your game stand out from others. It's the one unique element that differentiates your game and should align with the player fantasy, making your game more attractive and memorable.

How should you pitch your game idea?

When pitching your game idea, keep it simple. Condense the concept into one sentence, focusing on what makes it special. Start with the word 'you' to help others envision themselves playing the game.