HACK//OPS

Game Dev Tips

  1. 01

    Scope tiny

    One mechanic, one level, one goal. If you think it's small enough, cut it in half.

  2. 02

    Core loop first

    Get the 10-second loop fun before adding menus, story or polish.

  3. 03

    Playable by lunch

    Aim for something rough but playable before 13:00. Polish in the afternoon.

  4. 04

    Playtest early

    Hand it to another team. Watch silently. Where do they get stuck?

  5. 05

    Add juice

    Screen shake, particles, squash & stretch and sound make simple games feel great.

  6. 06

    Sound is half the game

    A good hit sound and a looping track instantly raise quality.

  7. 07

    Split roles

    Teams of up to 4: game logic, 3D assets, audio, and someone playtesting.

  8. 08

    Freeze at 16:30

    Stop adding features. Fix bugs and make sure it runs on the demo laptop.

Demo teaser: 3 minutes

No slides, just play. Open with the game running, show the core loop in 30 seconds, then one moment you're proud of. Rehearse once.

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