Solo Game Dev: Finish Your Game Without Burning Out
Posted by Gemma Ellison
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August 21, 2025The Solo Dev’s Blueprint: Building Games Without Burning Out
Starting a game project alone or as a student can feel overwhelming.
Many aspiring developers get stuck in a cycle of grand ideas and unfinished projects.
This guide offers practical steps to ship your game without sacrificing your well-being.
Define Your Core Idea Early
Don’t start coding without a clear concept.
Many solo developers begin with a vague notion and then expand endlessly.
Instead, define your core gameplay loop, target audience, and unique selling proposition from day one.
This clarity prevents feature creep and keeps your project focused.
A lean game with a strong core is better than an ambitious, unfinished one.
Scope Your Project Relentlessly
Scope management is paramount for solo developers.
Resist the urge to add