A Formal Approach To Game Design And Game Research
Game design is a multidisciplinary field that requires a solid understanding of various disciplines such as computer science, art, psychology, and business. Indonesia is a country with a growing gaming industry, but game design and research are still relatively new. In this article, we will discuss the formal approach to game design and game research that is being used in Indonesia.
Game Design Process
The game design process in Indonesia follows a systematic approach that involves several stages:
1. Ideation
The first stage of game design is ideation, where you come up with a game concept. In this stage, you need to define the game's genre, mechanics, target audience, and story. The idea should be unique and feasible within the given resources.
2. Concept Art
The second stage is concept art. It involves creating sketches, illustrations, and 3D models to visualize the game world and characters. The game designer needs to work closely with the art team to create a cohesive design that is appealing and engaging to the target audience.
3. Prototyping
The third stage is prototyping. It involves creating a basic version of the game mechanics and testing it to see if it is fun and engaging. The prototype should be simple and easy to play, and feedback from testers should be taken into account for improving the game mechanics.
4. Production
The fourth stage is production. It involves developing the game mechanics, creating artwork, sound design, and integrating all the elements into a cohesive whole. The game should be tested rigorously to ensure it is bug-free and meets the design goals.
5. Testing and Launch
The final stage is testing and launch. The game should be tested on various platforms and devices to ensure compatibility and performance. The launch should be accompanied by a marketing campaign to attract the target audience and generate buzz.
Game Research
Game research is an essential part of game design that involves understanding the target audience and their preferences. In Indonesia, game research is mostly focused on mobile games, which are the most popular gaming platform in the country. The following are some aspects of game research that are being used in Indonesia:
1. Player Behavior Analysis
Player behavior analysis is the process of analyzing how players interact with the game. It involves collecting data on player actions, choices, and preferences. The data can be used to improve the game mechanics, user interface, and overall player experience.
2. Market Analysis
Market analysis involves studying the gaming market and understanding the competition. It involves analyzing the target audience, their preferences, and spending habits. The data can be used to improve the marketing strategy, pricing, and overall game design.
3. User Testing
User testing involves testing the game with real users and collecting feedback. The feedback can be used to improve the game mechanics, user interface, and overall player experience. User testing should be done at different stages of game development to ensure the game meets the target audience's expectations.
Conclusion
The formal approach to game design and game research is essential for creating successful games in Indonesia. The process involves several stages, including ideation, concept art, prototyping, production, and testing and launch. Game research involves understanding the target audience and their preferences through player behavior analysis, market analysis, and user testing. By following a formal approach and conducting proper research, game designers in Indonesia can create engaging, fun, and profitable games.