10
Can you understand the function of new items through level design? My game is text-free, focusing solely on level design to convey the usage of game items and rules.
r/IndieDev
6/28/2025
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | https://store.steampowered.com | Game Distribution | Platform for game publishing, wishlisting, and demo distribution |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Difficulty understanding game mechanics without text explanations
- Confusion about why certain puzzle solutions are valid/invalid
- Lack of clear visual feedback for errors
Problems to Solve:
- Conveying item functionality and game rules purely through level design
- Providing intuitive error feedback during gameplay
- Making puzzle mechanics understandable without text
Potential Solutions:
- Targeted visual feedback highlighting specific faulty components (e.g., flashing only problematic items)
- Polishing visual design to represent country-specific items as hints
- Using distinctive visual styles for different game elements
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Offering playable demos to attract users
- Leveraging Steam wishlists for pre-launch interest
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Promoting Steam page and demo in community interactions
- Encouraging wishlist additions through direct requests
Monetization & Product:
- Using cultural elements (country-specific items) for product differentiation
- Focusing on visual polish and distinctive art style
- Puzzle mechanics inspired by established games (Hashiwokakero) with modifications
User Engagement:
- Responding to user feedback in comments
- Encouraging players to guess cultural references in items
- Community interaction on Reddit for visibility