Pain Points:

• Jarring transition between cutscenes and gameplay
• Inconsistent boss size between cutscene and gameplay
• Underwhelming attack animations (e.g., jump slash attack)
• Lack of visual impact feedback during combat
• Bright character appearance in gameplay vs. darker cutscene
• Minimal shadows in gameplay environment

Problems to Solve:

• Improve smoothness of cutscene-to-gameplay transitions
• Maintain consistent scale/immersion between cinematic and gameplay
• Enhance combat animations to feel more impactful
• Create better visual feedback for attacks
• Improve lighting/shadow consistency between cutscenes and gameplay
• Add environmental shadows to gameplay

Potential Solutions:

• Add fade effects or dark screens during transitions
• Use zoomed-in camera angles at scene start
• Add autoblock/dodge mechanics after cutscenes
• Redesign basic attacks to be more unique/telegraphed
• Increase screen shake or visual effects for impact
• Adjust character lighting/shading in gameplay
• Implement shadow rendering system

Pain Points:

• Lack of engaging mechanics in the core gameplay
• Need for more personality and humor in the game
• Desire for nostalgic elements related to classic phones

Problems to Solve:

• How to make the phone character more interactive and fun
• How to incorporate classic phone features into gameplay
• How to add replay value through unlockables and minigames

Potential Solutions:

• Add phone vibration mechanics for chaos and unpredictability
• Implement classic games like Snake, Bounce, and Space Impact as minigames
• Include story elements through text messages and voicemails
• Add phone customization options (cases, ringtones, wallpapers)
• Create levels themed around phone hazards (water, toilets, charging stations)

Pain Points:

• Players feel misled when promotional materials don't reflect actual game content
• Difficulty in showcasing diverse art styles effectively in trailers

Problems to Solve:

• How to accurately represent varied level designs in marketing
• How to maintain player trust through consistent representation

Potential Solutions:

• Update store art and trailers to include all art styles
• Clearly communicate that different levels feature distinct art styles

Pain Points:

• Encountering bugs during gameplay, especially early in the game
• Negative public feedback from influencers affecting perception
• Difficulty in thorough playtesting as a small indie developer
• Frustration when users skip tutorials or instructions and blame the game
• Emotional impact of harsh criticism on developers

Problems to Solve:

• Ensuring bug-free gameplay, particularly in early stages
• Managing public relations after negative reviews
• Improving playtesting coverage to catch edge cases
• Designing intuitive tutorials that users won't skip
• Developing resilience against harsh criticism

Potential Solutions:

• Fixing bugs immediately when reported
• Creating robust systems to handle interactions
• Extensive playtesting with unfamiliar testers
• Monkey testing the early game thoroughly
• Responding professionally to criticism and showing commitment to improvement
• Leveraging negative publicity for awareness (if possible)

Pain Points:

• Lack of experienced programmers for advanced features
• Balancing visual style with gameplay comfort
• Managing community expectations while keeping project scope manageable

Problems to Solve:

• Implementing advanced deformation mechanics (e.g., projectile holes in enemies)
• Creating engaging gameplay around clay deformation
• Achieving authentic claymation aesthetics (e.g., depth of field, soft shadows)

Potential Solutions:

• Hiring experienced programmers
• Using fingerprint normals for texture detail
• Adding depth of field for cinematic shots
• Implementing frame-by-frame animation (12 frames)
• Exploring clay-based mechanics: temporary cover, clay creatures, weapon interactions

Pain Points:

• Lack of multiplayer/cross-platform play
• Trailer showing dull moments (constant speed, no turns/obstacles)
• Uncertainty about game mechanics (e.g., adversaries, objectives)

Problems to Solve:

• Creating engaging gameplay without adversaries
• Making trailers more dynamic
• Clarifying game mechanics to potential players

Potential Solutions:

• Focus on speedrun challenges as social competition (pass-the-controller)
• Improve trailer editing to highlight exciting moments
• Provide clearer descriptions/demos to showcase mechanics

Pain Points:

• Over-saturation of survival and roguelike genres
• Fatigue with repetitive game mechanics
• Confusion about genre definitions (e.g., roguelike vs roguelite)
• Difficulty standing out in crowded indie market

Problems to Solve:

• Creating unique games in oversaturated genres
• Differentiating from similar indie titles
• Clarifying genre terminology for players
• Finding untapped game concepts

Potential Solutions:

• Combining genres (e.g., survival horror roguelike)
• Adding unique twists (e.g., playing as zombie in survival game)
• Focusing on handcrafted content instead of procedural generation
• Exploring less saturated genres

Pain Points:

• Lack of marketing experience and budget
• Difficulty achieving consistent wishlist growth
• Challenges in getting featured in festivals/events
• Time constraints balancing development and marketing
• Uncertainty about effective marketing strategies

Problems to Solve:

• How to organically grow game wishlists
• How to get featured in Steam/third-party festivals
• How to effectively use social media for promotion
• How to create effective trailers and Steam pages
• How to validate marketing performance metrics

Potential Solutions:

• Participating in Steam/third-party festivals for visibility
• Releasing polished demos early
• Consistent social media posting (Bsky, X, Reddit)
• Optimizing Steam page with gameplay-focused trailers and capsules
• Using HTMAG resources for marketing guidance
• Leveraging community platforms like Discord for festival info

Pain Points:

• Lack of artistic skills to create game assets
• Difficulty visualizing game ideas
• Budget constraints for commissioning art

Problems to Solve:

• Need high-quality pixel art for games
• Require professional visualization of game concepts
• Seeking affordable art services

Potential Solutions:

• Hiring freelance pixel artists
• Tiered pricing based on complexity
• Using references for practice and skill improvement

Pain Points:

Problems to Solve:

Potential Solutions:

Pain Points:

• Struggling to create a succinct description for Steam page due to eclectic game nature
• Visual clutter causing confusion for some players (especially those with ADHD)
• Bugs reported: infinite scream glitch when jumping+screaming simultaneously, fixed resolution issue (900x600) instead of scaling to user's monitor

Problems to Solve:

• Need clear game description that captures eclectic style
• Improve visual clarity to prevent overwhelming players
• Fix gameplay bugs affecting user experience
• Implement proper screen scaling for different resolutions

Potential Solutions:

• Simplify background elements to reduce visual noise (as suggested by commenters)
• Implement automatic resolution scaling based on user's monitor
• Fix jump+scream input conflict bug
• Use community feedback (e.g., "Pizza Tower meets Cruelty Squad" comparison) as inspiration for description

Pain Points:

• Difficulty balancing realism with fun in game design
• Challenges in managing multiple roles (coding, art, music, etc.) as an indie developer
• Time constraints for game development alongside other commitments
• Emotional attachment to unused prototypes
• Post-release fatigue from excessive testing

Problems to Solve:

• Creating engaging games without overcomplicating mechanics
• Handling diverse development tasks as a solo or small team
• Finding time for passion projects despite busy schedules
• Overcoming guilt about abandoning prototypes
• Maintaining motivation after extensive testing phases

Potential Solutions:

• Prioritizing fun over realism in design decisions
• Embracing multidisciplinary approaches without perfectionism
• Dedicating consistent small time blocks for development
• Viewing prototypes as learning experiences rather than failures
• Setting boundaries between development and personal play

Pain Points:

• Minimalist design may not stand out on crowded platforms like Steam
• Balancing artistic vision with marketability
• Conveying game theme accurately through visual elements
• Text design inconsistencies (e.g., inconsistent word sizing/styling)
• Character design misinterpretations (e.g., choker misinterpreted as horror element)

Problems to Solve:

• Creating eye-catching game capsule art that stands out on Steam
• Effectively communicating game genre (fighting/power fantasy) through visuals
• Designing cohesive text elements with proper emphasis hierarchy
• Conveying narrative elements (adrenaline-choker mechanic) visually
• Balancing aesthetic appeal with functional visibility

Potential Solutions:

• Combine best elements from both versions (e.g., character pose from first + text/background from second)
• Adjust text hierarchy (make "or" smaller, emphasize "Adrenaline" and "Die")
• Add contextual elements to clarify choker's purpose (e.g., Saw-inspired mechanical look)
• Experiment with white backgrounds for better Steam UI contrast
• Add subtle motion/highlight elements to guide viewer attention
• Incorporate damage effects on frame to imply combat

Pain Points:

• Art style may be too similar to existing games (Disco Elysium)
• Cover art doesn't clearly convey the game's genre (psychological horror)
• Initial impressions lead to incorrect assumptions about gameplay (e.g., rhythm game, DJ simulator)

Problems to Solve:

• Need to differentiate art style from similar games
• Need to communicate game genre more effectively through cover art
• Need to prevent misinterpretation of game theme

Potential Solutions:

• Adjust visual elements to reduce resemblance to Disco Elysium character
• Incorporate horror/psychological elements into cover art
• Add symbolic elements reflecting underwater exploration and corpse discovery

Pain Points:

• Not explicitly mentioned in the post

Problems to Solve:

• Creating realistic physics simulations (solids deformation/breaking, fluid behavior)
• Building a community around a niche game engine
• Providing accessible game development tools

Potential Solutions:

• Implementing constraint-based physics systems for material simulation
• Offering free access to source code to lower entry barrier
• Creating paid distribution through Steam for convenience
• Establishing Discord community for user engagement

Pain Points:

• No explicit pain points mentioned in the provided content

Problems to Solve:

• Need for high-quality, cute pixel art game assets (specifically top-down vehicles)
• Desire for affordable assets during early adoption phase

Potential Solutions:

• Creating and selling specialized asset packs (e.g., vehicle pack)
• Offering launch discounts (50% off) to incentivize purchases

Pain Points:

• UI elements are too bulky and take up too much screen space
• Borders are too thick and lack personality
• Potion icon is disproportionately large compared to ability icons
• Potential readability issues with dark semi-transparent UI (A) in certain lighting conditions

Problems to Solve:

• Choosing between two UI color schemes (black vs brown background)
• Optimizing UI layout for console compatibility
• Streamlining consumable item controls (single key for all potions)
• Reducing visual clutter while maintaining functionality

Potential Solutions:

• Scale down oversized elements (potion icon, borders)
• Use thinner borders with more stylistic elements
• Prioritize readability by considering background transparency effects (B suggested for better readability)
• Maintain console-friendly layout while minimizing footprint

Pain Points:

• Difficulty in tracking enemies after they emerge from hiding due to visual similarity with background
• Lack of programming skills preventing full game development
• Challenges in marketing and promoting asset packs

Problems to Solve:

• Creating visually distinct enemy designs for better gameplay visibility
• Developing complete games despite limited programming expertise
• Gaining visibility and traction for indie asset packs

Potential Solutions:

• Modifying enemy sprites to have contrasting colors when visible
• Focusing on specialized asset packs (e.g., enemy sprites) based on user interest
• Seeking direct user feedback to improve products

Pain Points:

• Designing balanced boss skills for both melee and ranged classes
• Preventing players from escaping boss mechanics (e.g., wall setup)
• Smoothing animation transitions for better impact
• Preventing unintended player positioning (e.g., standing on rock colliders)
• Avoiding dull gameplay from excessive kiting with ranged weapons

Problems to Solve:

• Creating intense and exciting boss fights
• Balancing boss skills for different playstyles
• Implementing effective arena mechanics (e.g., walls, rock eruptions)
• Enhancing visual feedback for attacks (e.g., particles, recoil animations)
• Preventing exploits in boss mechanics

Potential Solutions:

• Increasing wall duration to apply pressure
• Adding follow-up skills after wall confinement
• Implementing particle effects for stomping and attacks
• Smoothing animation transitions with recoil
• Adding ranged pressure mechanics (e.g., falling rocks)
• Increasing boss movement speed
• Designing tighter arenas
• Adding gap-closing skills (e.g., jump attacks)
• Implementing phase systems instead of enrage timers

Pain Points:

• No explicit pain points mentioned

Problems to Solve:

• Saving mother from an ancient god
• Uncovering Aztec myths through gameplay
• Creating emotional investment in game narrative

Potential Solutions:

• Mythology-inspired game design
• Puzzle mechanics tied to lore
• Narrative-driven gameplay

Pain Points:

• Trailer intro is too long and text-heavy
• Text captions take up too much screen space and time
• Lack of immediate gameplay footage in trailer
• Insufficient explanation of game world/story

Problems to Solve:

• Creating engaging trailers that hook viewers quickly
• Effectively communicating game setting and objectives
• Balancing text information with visual gameplay
• Showcasing most exciting combat/exploration scenes

Potential Solutions:

• Shorten intro duration and reduce text display time
• Layer text over gameplay instead of full-screen display
• Start with intense cinematic moments to hook viewers
• Include brief story/world context after initial hook
• Use different trailer formats focusing on action

Pain Points:

• Difficulty in finding comprehensive resources on Shader Graph
• Need for organized and searchable learning materials

Problems to Solve:

• Learning and mastering Shader Graph techniques
• Accessing original resources for game development

Potential Solutions:

• Creating a book or online resource on Shader Graph
• Providing searchable digital content for easy reference

Pain Points:

• Uncertainty about design coherence with game theme
• Need for feedback on new features

Problems to Solve:

• Balancing cozy town-building with intense defense phases
• Ensuring art style consistency (pixel art + realism blend)

Potential Solutions:

• Iterative design based on community feedback
• Maintaining visual consistency while adding new elements

Pain Points:

• No specific pain points mentioned

Problems to Solve:

• Seeking validation from peers about common practices
• Promoting their game to potential players

Potential Solutions:

• Sharing game links directly in discussions
• Engaging with interested users to build visibility

Pain Points:

• Motion sickness in first-person games
• Accessibility challenges for players with motion sensitivity

Problems to Solve:

• Reducing motion sickness for players
• Making the game accessible to a wider audience

Potential Solutions:

• Implementing camera stability features
• Adding accessibility options for motion sensitivity
• Continuous improvement post-launch

Pain Points:

Problems to Solve:

Potential Solutions:

Pain Points:

• No specific pain points mentioned

Problems to Solve:

• Building a ragdoll physics-based heist game

Potential Solutions:

• Not explicitly mentioned

Pain Points:

• Difficulty designing consistent and logical abilities for animal body parts in a game
• Uncertainty about appropriate effects for certain parts (e.g. peacock tail)
• Balancing gameplay mechanics with thematic coherence

Problems to Solve:

• Assigning meaningful abilities to all animal body parts
• Ensuring part abilities align with animal characteristics
• Creating a balanced breeding system with randomized traits

Potential Solutions:

• Using Tier Zoo YouTube channel for animal ability inspiration
• Implementing proximity-based effects (e.g. peacock tail boosting nearby animals)
• Incorporating RNG elements for replayability while maintaining thematic consistency

Pain Points:

• Bugs in first published games
• Difficulty in realizing game development dreams quickly

Problems to Solve:

• Publishing a game on Playstore
• Developing a game within a short timeframe (45 days)

Potential Solutions:

• Using Playstore as a publishing platform
• Rapid game development techniques

Pain Points:

• Delayed combat mechanics
• Poor character visibility
• Basic NPC dialogue system needing improvement
• General game mechanics refinement

Problems to Solve:

• Improving combat responsiveness
• Enhancing character visibility
• Developing more engaging NPC interactions
• Overall game polish and refinement

Potential Solutions:

• Implementing UI improvements for dialogues
• Optimizing art assets
• Reducing input/action delays in combat
• Iterative development based on user feedback

Pain Points:

Problems to Solve:

Potential Solutions:

Pain Points:

• Ensuring all 6 characters are equally appealing
• Character design inconsistencies (e.g., Ravi's mage hand position)

Problems to Solve:

• Balancing character prominence in group images
• Maintaining consistency across character assets
• Gathering unbiased feedback on character appeal

Potential Solutions:

• Adjusting character positioning/lighting to avoid unintentional prominence
• Sprite rework to fix inconsistencies
• Actively soliciting feedback through Steam page and social media

Pain Points:

• No specific pain points mentioned

Problems to Solve:

• Desire for more complex building options in simulation games
• Need for thematic diversity in game environments

Potential Solutions:

• Adding skyscraper construction capabilities
• Introducing new location themes like New York

Pain Points:

Problems to Solve:

Potential Solutions:

Pain Points:

Problems to Solve:

Potential Solutions:

Pain Points:

• Dislikes marketing products, especially to other game developers
• Financial struggles during development (ice soup for dinner)
• Uncertainty about post-launch steps and potential mistakes

Problems to Solve:

• Getting feedback on Steam page before release
• Learning what to do/avoid as release date approaches
• Validating game concept and presentation

Potential Solutions:

• Seeking community feedback on Steam page
• Learning from mistakes through peer review
• Crowdsourcing post-launch strategies from experienced developers

Pain Points:

• No specific pain points mentioned

Problems to Solve:

• Showcasing game development process
• Promoting indie game

Potential Solutions:

• Sharing development progress on social media
• Providing Steam page for wishlisting

Pain Points:

• Unskippable tutorial text causing frustration
• Difficulty understanding game mechanics

Problems to Solve:

• Making tutorials more engaging and skippable
• Improving accessibility of game instructions

Potential Solutions:

• Implementing video tutorials
• Breaking mechanics into small, skippable segments
• Making tutorial accessible anytime via question mark button

Pain Points:

• No specific pain points mentioned

Problems to Solve:

• Seeking feedback on game demo

Potential Solutions:

• Releasing demo for user testing and feedback

Pain Points:

• Developers face embarrassing bugs in their games during development
• Self-gaslighting into thinking bugs are more complex than they actually are
• Difficulty in testing one's own game due to repetitive testing patterns

Problems to Solve:

• Identifying and fixing unexpected bugs after updates
• Overcoming biased testing approaches
• Ensuring comprehensive game testing coverage

Potential Solutions:

• Utilizing external playtesters to catch overlooked issues
• Implementing diverse testing scenarios to avoid pattern repetition
• Building robust debugging processes for quick fixes

Pain Points:

• Uncertainty about character design affecting player connection
• Need to make design decisions that enhance player engagement

Problems to Solve:

• Deciding whether a drone character should speak or communicate through beeps
• Creating emotional connection between players and non-human character

Potential Solutions:

• Using beeps with varying tones to convey character and emotion (suggested by commenter)
• Gathering community feedback to inform design decisions

Pain Points:

• Difficulty marketing point-and-click games
• Low wishlist counts despite good game visuals

Problems to Solve:

• Reaching the target audience for niche game genres
• Increasing visibility and wishlist conversions

Potential Solutions:

• Finding dedicated communities (e.g., point-and-click Facebook groups)
• Leveraging genre-specific platforms where enthusiasts gather

Pain Points:

Problems to Solve:

Potential Solutions:

Pain Points:

• Getting scammed by promoters
• Being ignored due to low budget
• Difficulty finding reliable promoters

Problems to Solve:

• Finding affordable and trustworthy promoters for Android game downloads
• Getting initial downloads for an indie game

Potential Solutions:

• Focus on smaller YouTubers for reviews
• Find promoters with good reviews and clear communication
• Continue searching for promoters after refining the game