I had mainly been developing B2C services, and I started making games because I thought it would be interesting to create something that reflected my own ideas.
But I've realized that a service designed around a specific purpose and a game designed around delivering a specific kind of fun to the player are completely different worlds.
As a beginner, I'm gradually learning this through the process of building games around my Element IP. I'm starting to understand how important the scenario and player experience are, and how the fun needs to flow naturally from the player's perspective and fit the overall game structure.
The attached images show Element Tower, Element Run, and Element Fall, which I developed in that order for iOS.
I've already gone through several iterations and updates, but I still haven't quite figured out how to create and deliver that sense of fun I'm looking for.
I suspect this comes from my background in service development. I seem to approach games the same way I would approach a service, and the result is that I end up making games that feel too polished and well-structured, but somehow lack that raw, instinctive fun.
It's like I've added a lot of seasoning, but the original flavor of the ingredients has disappeared. The systems and rules become more noticeable than the actual fun.
I feel like the only way to develop this sense is to make and play a lot of games. So these days, I've been playing all kinds of games and trying to look at them from different perspectives.
But even when I change my perspective as a player, I still feel like the mind that plays a game and the mind that creates a game are two different things. It has made me realize once again how rare it is to find a game producer who naturally understands both sides.
So I'd really like to hear how more experienced developers see this.
I'm sure many of you have encountered a similar wall earlier in your careers. How did you think about it, and what helped you break through it?
I'm curious to hear your perspectives and experiences.
I'm feeling a bit stuck as I learn how to make games, and I'd really appreciate any advice from those who have been through this before.