The process of creating rules, mechanics, and themes for a game, focusing on player experience.

Games played on a flat surface, often involving pieces, cards, and boards, emphasizing social interaction.

The creation of a preliminary version of a game to test mechanics and gameplay before final production.

The process of testing a game with real players to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.

The rules and systems that govern gameplay, influencing how players interact with the game.

The narrative or setting of a game that provides context and enhances player engagement.

A development process that involves repeated cycles of prototyping, testing, and refining a game.

Information gathered from playtesters about their experience, used to improve the game design.

Adjusting game mechanics to ensure fairness and maintain player engagement throughout gameplay.

The fundamental actions players take in a game, such as moving, collecting, or battling.

The interactions between players and game mechanics that shape the overall gameplay experience.

Physical items used in prototyping, such as cards, dice, and boards, to create a playable game.

The guidelines that dictate how a game is played, including objectives, player actions, and winning conditions.

A presentation designed to promote a game to potential publishers or investors, highlighting its unique features.

An organized presentation where designers display their games to the public or industry professionals.

A method of raising funds for a game project by collecting small contributions from a large number of people.

The process of recording design decisions, playtest results, and game evolution for future reference.

A structured document outlining the objectives, procedures, and questions for conducting a playtest.

A preliminary model of a game, often rough and incomplete, used for testing and feedback.

The level of interest and involvement players have while interacting with a game.

Building relationships with other game designers, publishers, and playtesters for collaboration and support.

The process of preparing a game for the market, including production, marketing, and distribution.

The changes and improvements made to a game design over time based on feedback and testing.

The overall feeling and satisfaction a player derives from playing a game.

Creative concepts that differentiate a game from others, enhancing its appeal and uniqueness.