And repeat. Because the experience of a player
cannot ever be completely predicted, in an iterative process design decisions are based on the experience
of the prototype in progress. The prototype is tested, revisions are made, and the project is tested once
more. In this way, the project develops through an ongoing dialogue between the designers, the design, and
the testing audience.
In the case of games, iterative design means playtesting. Throughout the entire process of design and
development, your game is played. You play it. The rest of the development team plays it. Other people in
the o?¬? ce play it. People visiting your o?¬? ce play it. You organize groups of testers who match your target
audience. You have as many people as possible play the game. In each case, you observe them, ask them
questions, then adjust your design and playtest again.
This iterative process of design is radically di?¬? erent than typical retail game development. More o en
than not, at the start of the design process for a computer or console title, a game designer will think up a
?¬? nished concept and then write an exhaustive design document that outlines every possible aspect of the
game in minute detail.
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