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How Our Indie Studio Picked Its Next Game After Releasing a Lovecraftian Doctor Sim
r/IndieDev
7/7/2025
Content Summary
An indie game studio shares their structured process for selecting their next project after releasing 'Do No Harm', a Lovecraftian doctor simulator. The team used a risk assessment framework, collaborative pitching sessions, and multi-stage voting involving leads from different disciplines. After evaluating 11 ideas based on popularity, feasibility, and market potential, they selected a 3D Potioncraft/Inscryption hybrid set in their existing game universe. The process emphasizes balancing creative freedom with commercial viability while leveraging their established community.
Opinion Analysis
The author demonstrates a methodical yet flexible approach to game development. They value structured processes (risk assessment, voting systems) while maintaining creative freedom. There's strong emphasis on team collaboration, data-driven decision making, and learning from previous projects. The tone shows cautious optimism about balancing innovation with commercial realities, and pride in their team's engagement during the selection process.
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| No specific SaaS tools mentioned in the post | - | - | - |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Difficulty balancing creative freedom with commercial viability
- Managing technical complexity and scope creep in game development
- Uncertainty in combining different game mechanics/styles
- Narrative-heavy games posing production challenges
- Market competition impacting audience expectations
Problems to Solve:
- Selecting next game project with optimal risk/reward balance
- Maintaining team motivation through creative engagement
- Validating game concepts before full production
- Managing community expectations from previous success
- Integrating existing IP into new projects
Potential Solutions:
- Structured risk assessment framework for project selection
- Prototyping phase to test game mechanics
- Leveraging existing community/fanbase for continuity
- Hybrid approach combining proven elements with innovation
- Collaborative decision-making process with multiple voting stages
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Structured risk assessment framework for project selection
- Community-driven development leveraging existing fanbase
- Iterative prototyping approach for concept validation
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Leveraging existing IP and community for continuity
- Focus on 'hook' development for marketability
- Monitoring competitor releases and market trends
Monetization & Product:
- Risk-based project categorization (0-3 levels)
- Balancing innovation with proven mechanics
- Post-launch content updates strategy
- Multi-platform expansion (Steam Deck/console)
User Engagement:
- Transparent development process documentation
- Community involvement through public updates
- Maintaining narrative continuity between projects
- Creative team engagement through idea pitching