Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design, 2nd Edition

Continue?

Time to Level Up!

So, let’s see … . You’ve thought up some game design ideas, you’ve written some game design documents, you’ve made some chili, and you’ve pitched your game.

Congratulations! You’ve leveled up!

And just as in games, you’re just getting started. Now it’s time for you to learn firsthand that making video games is the best job in the world. Do me a favor: as you make your own games and move forward with your game design career, keep this book in your backpack. I hope it will come in helpful the next time you get stuck on a problem, or maybe it will provide a little inspiration from time to time.

Finally, always remember these very important things:

• You’re only human. You’re going to make mistakes. You are going to experience doubt. You are going to run out of ideas (temporarily). When those things happen, don’t be too hard on yourself. Take a break. You’re making video games, not performing heart surgery. No one is going to die if you don’t get it done today. Your health and your sanity come first.
• Always be fair and generous. Give credit where credit is due. Let people know when they’re doing a good job or when you’re having fun working with them. Try mentioning one thing you like about their work before going over the list of things that need fixing. It never hurts to be a thoughtful and decent person. This is a very small industry, and word gets around very fast when you don’t play nicely with others.
• Keep learning. The world is filled with so many ...