One year as full-time solo game dev
8 hours ago
- #game-development
- #solo-dev
- #indie-games
- Initial effort estimations for game completion were significantly off, highlighting the complexity of solo game development.
- Time tracking proved essential for maintaining motivation and productivity, with a simple text file method preferred for flexibility.
- Persistence is key in game development, with the importance of not giving up emphasized through personal highs and lows.
- The concept of 10,000 hours to mastery is referenced, with the developer noting substantial improvement but not yet reaching mastery.
- Taking breaks and avoiding burnout is crucial, with a shift from daily commits to a more balanced work schedule.
- Facing societal underestimation of game development as a profession, the developer stresses the importance of self-respect and following one's passion.
- A surprising lack of personal enjoyment in playing one's own games is noted, attributed to over-familiarity and a critical eye towards improvements.
- The dangers of comparison on social media are highlighted, advocating for focus on one's own project over external noise.
- Marketing strategies are explored, with a preference for enjoyable methods like blogging over budget-intensive campaigns.
- The principle 'done is better than perfect' is advocated to avoid perfectionism traps and ensure progress.
- Organizational methods evolved towards simplicity, using a single todo.md file and notebook for ideas and tasks.
- The challenge of naming is discussed, with the chosen name '99Managers' meeting criteria like uniqueness and domain availability.
- Trademark registration for the game name in the EU is detailed, emphasizing protection in an open-source context.
- Financial strategies include living on savings, minimal spending, and considering future crowdfunding or cultural funds.
- The core advice is to focus on making a great game above all else, as it is the foundation for success.
- Multiple backup plans (A to Z) are outlined, ranging from freelance work to full-time employment, ensuring financial sustainability.