Game Development Questions Medium
Game design documentation is a crucial aspect of game development as it serves as a blueprint for the entire project. It outlines the vision, mechanics, and overall structure of the game. The elements of game design documentation typically include:
1. Concept: This section provides a high-level overview of the game, including the genre, setting, and core gameplay mechanics. It establishes the main idea and goals of the game.
2. Story and Characters: This element focuses on the narrative aspects of the game, including the backstory, plot, and character descriptions. It outlines the main storyline, character arcs, and any branching paths or multiple endings.
3. Gameplay Mechanics: This section details the specific gameplay mechanics and rules that players will encounter. It covers aspects such as controls, player actions, interactions with the game world, and any unique features or abilities.
4. Level Design: This element focuses on the layout and structure of the game's levels or environments. It includes details on the size, layout, and objectives of each level, as well as any puzzles, obstacles, or secrets that players may encounter.
5. Art and Visuals: This section outlines the visual style, art direction, and overall aesthetics of the game. It includes concept art, character designs, environment sketches, and any other visual references that help convey the intended look and feel of the game.
6. Sound and Music: This element covers the audio aspects of the game, including sound effects, background music, and voice acting. It may include references to specific soundtracks or examples of desired audio design.
7. User Interface (UI): This section focuses on the design and layout of the game's user interface, including menus, HUD (heads-up display), and any other on-screen elements. It outlines how players will navigate through the game's menus and access various features or options.
8. Progression and Rewards: This element details the game's progression system, including how players advance through the game, unlock new content, and earn rewards. It may include information on experience points, leveling up, achievements, or any other means of player progression.
9. Technical Requirements: This section outlines the technical specifications and requirements for the game, including the target platforms (e.g., PC, console, mobile), system requirements, and any specific software or tools that will be used during development.
10. Marketing and Distribution: This element focuses on the marketing and distribution strategies for the game. It may include plans for promotional materials, target audience analysis, pricing models, and distribution platforms (e.g., digital storefronts, physical copies).
These elements collectively provide a comprehensive overview of the game's design and serve as a reference for the development team throughout the entire production process.