Home/r/IndieDev/2025-06-28/#3376
406

I got my first round of human feedback , It was bad.

r/IndieDev
6/28/2025

SAAS TOOLS

SaaSURLCategoryFeatures/Notes
No specific SaaS tools mentionedN/AN/AN/A

USER NEEDS

Pain Points:

  • Game mechanics are frustrating rather than relaxing
  • Lack of intuitive gameplay
  • Abstract puzzle mechanics that distract from visuals
  • Confusing feedback systems
  • Limited player freedom/creativity
  • Difficulty signaling player objectives

Problems to Solve:

  • Create a truly relaxing casual game experience
  • Improve intuitive understanding of game mechanics
  • Reduce player frustration with search/puzzle systems
  • Balance guidance vs. player freedom
  • Develop clear visual language for interactions
  • Establish motivating narrative context

Potential Solutions:

  • Remove restrictive mechanics (coins, inventory limits)
  • Shift to open sandbox design without win conditions
  • Add narrative context to guide player actions
  • Use character/story elements to naturally motivate gameplay
  • Replace abstract icons with recognizable shapes/objects
  • Implement more visual feedback and animations
  • Simplify interactions to focus on discovery over puzzles

GROWTH FACTORS

Effective Strategies:

  • Soliciting targeted user feedback from actual player demographics
  • Iterative design based on playtesting
  • Embracing limitations as design strengths
  • Focusing on core visual appeal and satisfying animations

Marketing & Acquisition:

  • Targeting cozy game communities (e.g., Reddit's r/IndieDev)
  • Leveraging visual appeal for social media sharing
  • Considering mobile platform expansion for broader reach

Monetization & Product:

  • Potential freemium model with cosmetic unlocks
  • Avoiding complex mechanics that alienate casual players
  • Prioritizing accessibility features (e.g., color/shape differentiation)
  • Balancing simplicity with depth through narrative/collectibles

User Engagement:

  • Building community through Reddit engagement
  • Incorporating user suggestions into development
  • Creating shareable diorama outputs
  • Fostering a supportive development transparency