Game Idea Generation: 10 Expert Tips for Success

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Tip 1: Play a variety of games
3. Tip 2: Combine different game genres
4. Tip 3: Explore the world around you
5. Tip 4: Constrain yourself
6. Tip 5: Study other mediums
7. Tip 6: Mess around in Unity or your chosen game engine
8. Tip 7: Use a game idea generator
9. Tip 8: Participate in Game Jams
10. Tip 9: Play with toys or legos
11. Tip 10: Journal your ideas
12. Conclusion

How to Come Up With Great Ideas for Your Games

Are you struggling to come up with fresh and innovative ideas for your games? Do you find yourself thinking that everything has already been done? Don't worry, because in this article, we'll explore the best tips to help you generate new and exciting game ideas. From playing a variety of games to studying other mediums and journaling your ideas, these strategies will get your creative juices flowing and help you create games that stand out. So let's dive in and discover how you can unlock your full game design potential.

1. Introduction

Every game starts with an idea, and while it may seem challenging to come up with original ideas in a saturated market, the truth is that new and different innovative games are released every year. The key is to realize that good ideas are out there; we just need to find them. In this article, we'll explore ten tips to help you come up with game ideas that will captivate players and set your games apart from the rest.

2. Tip 1: Play a variety of games

One of the best ways to spark your creativity is to play a diverse range of games. By exposing yourself to different genres and mechanics, you'll gain a deeper understanding of what works and what doesn't. Take note of what interests you and analyze the components you find intriguing. Playing a variety of games will also inspire you to think about unique ways to merge different genres, leading to exciting and original game ideas.

3. Tip 2: Combine different game genres

Sometimes the most innovative ideas come from combining two or more different game genres. Think outside the box and consider crazy combinations that might make a great game. An excellent example of this is "Rocket League," which combines car racing with soccer. Despite its release five years ago, the game still has a massive player base. This demonstrates the power of combining genres to create a fresh and compelling gameplay experience.

4. Tip 3: Explore the world around you

Inspiration can strike when you least expect it, so be aware of your surroundings and what is happening around you. When you go out with friends or explore the city, pay close attention to the details. You never know when a game idea might present itself. Take, for example, the creation of "Pacman." The developers came up with the idea while eating pizza and noticing how a partially eaten slice resembled the iconic character. By embracing the world around you, you can discover unique game concepts.

5. Tip 4: Constrain yourself

While the freedom to think about anything can be overwhelming, imposing constraints on your brainstorming sessions can provide focus and unleash your creativity. Choose a theme, such as a sci-fi or pirate game, or select a specific genre like a 3rd person shooter or an RPG. These constraints will help channel your thoughts and generate fresh ideas. By avoiding the trap of thinking too broadly, you'll be able to explore more specific and innovative concepts.

6. Tip 5: Study other mediums

Looking beyond games can be a valuable source of inspiration. Novels, movies, theater, and other forms of media have told gripping stories in their unique ways. While game development differs from these mediums due to its interactive nature, studying how they tell stories can trigger fresh ideas for your games. For example, "Dante's Inferno" was inspired by the book of the same name. Although the game took a different tone, the book acted as a springboard for the developers' creativity.

7. Tip 6: Mess around in Unity or your chosen game engine

When experimenting with game engines like Unity, unexpected and funny bugs can occur. Often, these glitches can transform into exciting features that enhance gameplay. Simply messing around and testing things out, even if they initially seem nonsensical or just for fun, can result in exciting discoveries. Take "Goat Simulator" as an example – the game's hilarity was born out of experimenting with the engine. Embrace playfulness and allow your creativity to flourish.

8. Tip 7: Use a game idea generator

While it may sound silly, using a game idea generator can sometimes yield surprising results. These tools can provide you with unique concepts or act as a missing piece to complete your game idea puzzle. If you're feeling stuck and don't know where to start, give a game idea generator a try. Experiment with different options and see if any sparks of inspiration ignite within you.

9. Tip 8: Participate in Game Jams

Game Jams are events where participants come together to create a game within a limited time frame, often a few days. What makes Game Jams great for idea generation is the presence of a theme. The theme acts as a constraint that shapes your thinking and the game you create. Whether you interpret the theme literally or indirectly, it provokes creative ideas and serves as a catalyst for innovation. Collaborating with others during Game Jams can also elevate your creativity through the shared energy of teamwork.

10. Tip 9: Play with toys or legos

Playing with toys, especially legos, can unlock your creativity and stimulate your imagination. Engaging in free play with no particular objective allows your mind to wander and think about possibilities. Unexpectedly, sparks of inspiration may arise, leading to new game ideas. Embrace the childlike wonder within you and let playfulness guide your creative process.

11. Tip 10: Journal your ideas

Ideas can strike at any time, whether you're in the bathroom, taking a shower, or even sleeping. To ensure you capture these fleeting moments of inspiration, make it a habit to journal your ideas. Jotting down your thoughts immediately is crucial, as delaying it may cause the idea to vanish from your memory. By maintaining a journal of ideas, you'll have a bank of inspiration to draw from in the future. You can combine concepts, revisit old ideas, or use them as starting points for entirely new projects.

Conclusion

Coming up with great ideas for your games is an essential step in the game development process. By following the ten tips outlined in this article, you'll be equipped with strategies to overcome creative blocks and generate unique and captivating game concepts. However, it's essential to remember that a great idea alone does not guarantee a great game. It requires good design, playtesting, a production schedule, and other elements to bring your idea to life. Don't get discouraged by criticism or setbacks; instead, keep iterating and refining your game until it becomes an enjoyable experience for players. So start exploring these tips, and you'll soon find yourself with a wealth of exciting game ideas.