Game Design Documents (GDD) Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Overview of the importance of Game Design Documents (GDD).
• Purpose: To align vision and organize game development efforts.
• Coverage includes:
  • What a GDD is
  • When and why to use it
  • Examples and resources for creating your own GDD.

What is a GDD?

• Definition: A comprehensive document that outlines the core elements of a video game.
• Key Components:
  • Selling points
  • Target audience
  • Gameplay mechanics
  • Art and level design
  • Narrative and character development
• A GDD evolves as development progresses (living document).

Importance of a GDD

• Alignment: Keeps all team members on the same page.
• Organization: Helps solo developers organize thoughts.
• Risk Management: Identifies potential problems early on.
• Communication: Serves as a reference for all team members.

When to Use a GDD

• Recommended for every project.
• Particularly helpful during:
  • Pre-production planning
  • Game jams (can speed up production by organizing ideas).

Essentials of a Good GDD

• Core details like mechanics, systems, and platforms.
• Narrative elements, including story and character relationships.
• Structure: Treat as a detailed outline rather than a simple pitch.

Example GDD Walkthrough

• Real Example: The Alchemask GDD.
  • Title and tagline as header.
  • Table of contents for organization.
  • Summary includes game type and core mechanics.
  • Inspirations: Listing other games and influences for direction.
  • Core gameplay loop: Describe the primary action players will repeatedly engage in.
  • Themes: Identify recurring concepts and symbols.
  • Mechanics:
    • Primary mechanics: Central gameplay actions.
    • Secondary and tertiary mechanics: Supportive actions and features.
  • Narrative: Overview of story elements.
  • Art: Direction for visual style.
  • Audio: Importance of sound design, including music and SFX considerations.
  • User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX):
    • Plan for HUD elements and menus
    • Consider accessibility and intuitive design.

Storage and Accessibility of GDD

• Use collaborative tools like Google Drive for small teams.
• Consider specialized tools (Notion, Confluence) for larger teams.
• Ensure accessibility and editability for team members.

Freezing the GDD

• Freeze core elements (mechanics, story arcs) once in production to avoid scope creep.
• Important to maintain a clear focus on the project's original intent.

Additional Notes on GDDs

• Market and technical requirements are also crucial but were not covered in detail.
• Future Resources: More videos on market and technical requirements will be available.

Conclusion

• A GDD is an essential tool for game development, providing clarity, organization, and alignment.
• Encouragement to start creating a GDD regardless of experience level.
• Strength of organization and planning can lead to a cohesive project outcome.

Final Reminder

• Resources and templates will be provided in the description for further assistance.