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SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Godot | Game Engine | Mentioned as previous experience | |
| Unity | Game Engine | Current engine used by team | |
| LDTK | Level Design Tool | Used for level design | |
| ProBuilder | Level Design Tool | Tried but team found inefficient |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Feeling undervalued as a designer ('idea guy' stereotype)
- Difficulty balancing game economy systems (e.g., coin drop rates)
- Limited technical skills for current engine (Unity)
- Time constraints due to full-time job
- Conflicting playtest feedback on game difficulty
Problems to Solve:
- Defining and validating the designer role's importance
- Optimizing game balance and economy systems
- Finding ways to contribute beyond design without interfering
- Managing limited development time effectively
- Resolving inconsistent playtest feedback
Potential Solutions:
- Embrace role as game designer (validated by community)
- Focus on playtesting and iterative tuning
- Handle marketing, community building, and Steam prep
- Learn new skills (e.g., Unity basics) if time permits
- Use tools like LDTK for efficient level design
- Delegate tuning tasks to free up programmer/artist time
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Clear role specialization (designer vs. programmer vs. artist)
- Leveraging design tools (LDTK) for efficient workflow
- Outsourcing non-core tasks (e.g., using assets/marketplace)
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Building community pre-launch via YouTube/social media
- Creating short videos showcasing game mechanics
- Conducting A/B testing on game features
- Reaching out to publishers/influencers
Monetization & Product:
- Prioritizing core gameplay fun over technical polish
- Iterative tuning based on playtesting feedback
- Using accessible pricing models for indie games
- Ensuring strong product-market fit for genre (e.g., metroidvania)
User Engagement:
- Involving audience in playtesting phases
- Sharing development updates via YouTube
- Responding to community feedback transparently
- Fostering team morale through role validation