Why Devs Struggle With First Ideas (and How to Succeed)

“This game had potential, but it feels like the first idea they had, and they just stuck with it.” This harsh feedback from a player review encapsulates a common pitfall for new game developers. Many aspiring creators stumble at the initial concept stage, clinging to their first idea as if it were sacrosanct.

The “First Idea Trap”

New developers often fall into the “first idea trap.” This involves over-scoping the initial concept, fearing any deviation from it, and failing to critically assess its viability. The result is often a bloated, uninspired, or simply unachievable project that never sees the light of day. This attachment prevents necessary evolution and refinement.

Iterative Design

Breaking free requires embracing iterative design. Deconstruct your first idea into its core mechanics, themes, and emotional goals. Then, explore variations; what if the perspective changed, the core loop was simplified, or the theme shifted entirely? Iterative design is about exploring possibilities, not just executing a fixed plan.

Prototyping & Feedback

Rapid, low-fidelity prototypes are essential. Build the absolute minimum to test your core assumptions and gameplay loops. This could be a paper prototype, a simple digital sketch, or even just a flowchart. Crucially, gather early, unfiltered feedback from others. This outside perspective reveals flaws and opportunities you might miss, guiding your next iteration.

The Power of Documentation

Consider the story of Alex, a solo developer with a grand vision for an RPG. Their initial concept was sprawling and unfocused. Instead of abandoning it, Alex started a game development log. They documented every version of their idea, from the initial concept to simplified mechanics and completely new themes. Each entry in their game dev journal included feedback received, decisions made, and lessons learned. When a playtester found their combat system too complex, Alex noted it, brainstormed alternatives, and documented the shift to a simpler turn-based approach. This diligent tracking of their game development progress allowed Alex to see patterns in feedback and avoid repeating mistakes. Their journal became a living record of their game’s evolution, ultimately leading to a well-received, focused indie title. The discipline of keeping a game dev journal helped Alex navigate the difficult process of refining a complex project.

Actionable Steps for Idea Refinement

Brainstorming Techniques

To expand or pivot from your initial idea, try mind mapping. Start with your core concept and branch out with related mechanics, themes, or target audiences. Use “what if” scenarios to push boundaries. For example, “What if our puzzle game had a narrative layer?” or “What if the player was a villain instead of a hero?”

Concept Validation

Test the viability and appeal of different directions through quick surveys or discussions with potential players. Ask open-ended questions about what excites them, what they find confusing, or what they would change. This early validation saves significant development time later on.

Structured Journaling

A structured game dev journal is your most powerful tool for tracking your game development progress. For each entry in your game development log, document:

• New Ideas: Every thought, no matter how small or unrefined.
• Feedback Received: Record specific comments, even if they’re difficult to hear.
• Decisions Made: Why you chose a particular direction and what alternatives you considered.
• Lessons Learned: What worked, what didn’t, and why.

This consistent journaling helps you visualize your idea’s evolution, understand the rationale behind your choices, and learn from every iteration. To truly level up your game design and organize your creative process, documenting your journey in a dedicated game dev journal is essential. You can start organizing your creative process today with our dedicated game dev journaling tool. Level up your game design with our journaling tool.

Embracing idea evolution is not a sign of weakness, but a hallmark of a smart developer. The initial concept is merely a starting point. By iteratively designing, rapidly prototyping, and diligently documenting your game development progress in a game dev journal, you transform an unrefined thought into a robust and achievable game. This ongoing learning process, captured in your game development log, is the key to success.