The 5 Levels of Game Design
Game design is a complex process that involves a lot of planning and development. It is a creative process that requires the designer to come up with a concept, develop the game mechanics, create the art and sound, and then test and refine the game. The game design process typically consists of five main stages: pre-production, production, quality assurance, launch, and post-production maintenance.
Pre-Production
The pre-production stage is the initial planning phase of game design. This is where the designer comes up with the concept for the game, creates the game design document, and begins to plan out the game mechanics. During this stage, the designer will also create the game’s story, characters, and levels.
Production
The production stage is where the game is actually built. This is where the designer will create the game’s art, sound, and programming. The designer will also create the game’s user interface and menus. During this stage, the designer will also create the game’s levels and test them to make sure they are fun and challenging.
Quality Assurance
The quality assurance stage is where the game is tested for bugs and other issues. During this stage, the game is tested on different platforms and devices to make sure it works properly. The game is also tested for balance and difficulty. This stage is important to make sure the game is fun and enjoyable for the players.
Launch
The launch stage is where the game is released to the public. During this stage, the game is released on different platforms such as the App Store, Google Play, and Steam. The game is also marketed and promoted to help increase its visibility.
Post-Production Maintenance
The post-production maintenance stage is where the game is updated and maintained. During this stage, the game is updated with new content, bug fixes, and balance changes. This stage is important to keep the game fresh and interesting for the players.
Game design is a complex process that requires a lot of planning and development. By understanding the five stages of game design, designers can create better games that are enjoyable and engaging for players.