15
I spent 1 year solo-building a free board game tool after paywalls ruined my passion project. (300+ cards, prototyping, offline, no-code)
r/SideProject
6/2/2025
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Notes | https://store.steampowered.com/app/3007420/Mint_Notes/ | Board Game Prototyping | Free digital sandbox for prototyping board games, paper-like speed, no-code, offline, 300+ cards, rapid prototyping, optional premium features like AI, Steam Workshop, board templates, AI bots, online multiplayer |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Frustration with subscription paywalls limiting access to tools
- Time wasted updating paper card copies
- Complexity of tools like Tabletop Simulator for solo playtesting
- Desire for faster prototyping that feels like writing on paper
Problems to Solve:
- Need for free, accessible board game prototyping tools
- Desire for rapid digital prototyping that feels like paper
- Demand for offline capabilities and no-code solutions
Potential Solutions:
- Free digital sandbox for board game prototyping
- Optional premium features like AI, Steam Workshop, board templates, AI bots, online multiplayer
- One-time purchase model instead of subscriptions
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Building a free core product to attract users
- Offering optional premium features for monetization
- Focusing on solving specific user pain points
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Leveraging Steam platform for distribution
- Building community around the product
Monetization & Product:
- Free core product with optional premium features
- One-time purchase model for premium features
- Expanding features based on community demand
User Engagement:
- Providing a free, accessible core product
- Building community features like Steam Workshop
- Offering AI-powered enhancements