<aside> <img src="/icons/info-alternate_yellow.svg" alt="/icons/info-alternate_yellow.svg" width="40px" /> Getting ready for a game jam is not just about coding or art creation, it's about bringing worlds, stories, and experiences to life in a limited time frame. The key to success is having a great game idea!
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The right tools can make coming up with ideas a whole lot easier. Grab a notebook, open a new Google Doc, or dust off your whiteboard to write down your thoughts and ideas. Consider digital tools like Milanote, Miro or MindMeister that help you capture, organize, and revisit your ideas with ease.
Let the world around you inspire your game ideas. Games, books, movies, art, and real-life experiences can all spark creativity. Create an inspiration board where you compile images, quotes, or anything that catches your eye. This will help guide your creative process and keep you on course.
It's really helpful to have a special place where you can focus on coming up with ideas. This could be a quiet place in your house, a room with things that inspire you, or a distraction-free digital place. This is where you can brainstorm, doodle, and let your ideas run wild.
Ask yourself what kind of experience you want the player to have. Do I want to give them an exciting thrill, a mind-bending puzzle, or an emotive narrative journey? Defining the player's experience can be a great starting point to build your game concept around.
Try out different ways to brainstorm and let your ideas loose. You can do things like mind mapping, free writing, or sketching. Playing around with random words can also lead you to some cool, unexpected places. Be sure to write down your ideas systematically! Don't worry about the ideas sounding a bit wacky – that's all part of the fun!
The first idea you get might not be the best one. Once you've got a bunch of ideas, you can start changing and mixing them up. Combine different bits, play around with mechanics, or give themes a new spin! Don't be scared to push the boundaries. You're looking for an idea that really sparks excitement.
When you've got lots of ideas, it's important to take a moment to think about them. Consider things like whether you can actually make the game, how unique the idea is, if players would like it, and if it fits with your goals. The 'coolest' idea might not always be the best choice. It's good to be realistic and pick ideas that make sense for your project.
Remember, making a game is like going on a journey, and every journey starts with an idea. It's an amazing process of exploring, tweaking, and being inspired! So, put on your creative hat, fuel up on imagination, and jump into your game jam. You can totally do this!