For game jams, prototypes, solo devs and lean teams who want straight fast direction without dragging them down.
Fill this document out at the start of your project. Revisit it whilst you’re building. Use it to guide your decisions when you’re tempted to add something new and shiny.
🎬 Introduction
What’s your game in one sentence?
Think of this as your elevator pitch.
🧩 Summary
Quick overview of the game idea and goal.
One short paragraph to explain what the player does, why it matters and what makes it unique.
🔥 Hook
Why should anyone care?
What’s the one thing that makes your game exciting, fresh or emotionally gripping?
🎮 Genre
Define the game category.
Example: 2D puzzle-platformer // 3D narrative adventure // top-down shooter.
📱 Platform
Where will the game be played?
PC, console, mobile, web, etc. Be specific as it will impact design (touchscreen vs controller).
🔧 Development Tools
List your main tools and engine.
Example: Unreal Engine 5, Godot, Blender, Photoshop etc.
🎯 Target Audience
Who are you making this for?
Age range, interests, gaming experience level - what kind of player are you aiming for?
💡 Inspiration
What games, films, art or themes influenced this?
A short list or a few references that help others get the vibe you’re going for.
🗺️Concept Overview
What’s the world and game about?
Summarize the setting, narrative tone and gameplay goal in a digestible paragraph.
⚙️ Core Gameplay Loop
What does the player actually do on repeat?
Example: Explore → Collect → Unlock → Repeat.
🕹️ Primary Mechanics
List your key systems.
Example: Jumping, Slashing, Dialogue choices, Inventory management.
🕹️ Secondary Mechanics (Optional)
Support mechanics that enhance the experience.
Example: Crafting, Stealth, Relationship meters.
🎨 Visual Direction
What’s the game look and feel?
Summarize the tone, colour palette, camera perspective and inspirations.
🖼️ UI/UX
How will the player interact visually?
Menus, HUD, Health bars, Inventory screens - any interface elements, note it here.
🔉 Audio Direction
How should the game sound?
Talk about the mood of the music, the texture of sound design and inspirations.
🧭 Controls
List the input control scheme.
Keyboard and mouse // Controller // Touchscreen.
📆 Dev Timeline
Rough estimate of your milestones.
Example: Week 1: Prototype. Week 2: Art Pass. Week 3: Polish.
🧱 Scope
What’s in, what’s out?
List what you plan to deliver (MVP - minimum viable product) vs Stretch Goals.