BLOCK BUSTER AR

WHAT WENT RIGHT:

The gameplay kinda works.

WHAT WENT WRONG:

It turns out my old android test devices can't run AR software packages so I have to order new hardware.

Looking back at my last three projects… they're actually really bad games compared to the rest of the titles. I'm seeing a pattern that if I work on a simple, original idea- the end result almost always ends up being better than something that is complicated, overscoped, and unfocused.

WHAT I LEARNED:

• AR build dependencies reduce the hardware compatibilities on mobile devices. This means that by adding AR to your mobile app that isn't AR centric, you automatically cut out a large portion of your hardware market by adding those features. That's why mobile publishers will separate those features out, because including both actually reduces your market reach.
• Shut off the TV/music when working on hard tasks. There are some tasks that you can multitask with, but for any design work, the less distractions, the more efficient you burn.
• Building a game means building a construct inside of your mind, then printing it to code and testing the system. Most of the design work happens in your head.
• Blindly designing a game will always lead to ruin. Have a design mapped out prior to starting for the greatest chance of success
• Keep Game-A-Week ideas simple, small and original. Be precise with your goals and reduce scope whenever you can.