Game Design Document
As mentioned in the preceding chapter, it is essential to establish a solid foundation before beginning the development of your game. This foundation is embodied in the Game Design Document (GDD), which outlines comprehensive information regarding how the game should function, appear, and sound.
There are several compelling reasons why creating such a document is highly beneficial:
It serves as a central reference for all individuals involved in the development process, as well as for external stakeholders. This ensures that everyone has a clear understanding of what the final game will offer to players.
It provides an opportunity for team members to assess the feasibility of the design and identify any potential challenges or limitations at an early stage.
It allows game designers to implement changes to the design with minimal expenditure of time, effort, and resources.
If you are seeking inspiration or guidance in drafting your own game design document, numerous examples are available online. However, exercise caution when reviewing these documents, as it is not always evident how effective or useful they were for the teams that created them.
The following tips presented in this chapter will provide guidance on how to structure and develop your own game design document effectively.
Ensure Practical Value
Understand the importance of making your game design document a practical and functional tool throughout the development process.
Include Relevant Information
Learn what type of content should be included in your game design document, as well as what should be omitted to maintain clarity and focus.
Begin with Simplicity
Discover why it is advisable to avoid providing excessive detail in the initial stages of documenting your game design.
Incorporate Compatible and Feasible Concepts
Understand the necessity of including only ideas that are both compatible with your overall vision and realistically achievable within your available resources.