Game Dev and Playtesting

We started the game development process by ideating the game. Initially, we came up with the idea of a game where you transform between multiple different characters, each with their own ability, and you can build platforms that would interact with these abilities to get past obstacles.

We continued by making a list of features to implement and allocating each item in that list to a different team member. We'd reconvene regularly to check in on progress, reallocate tasks if necessary, and see if we missed any important features in the initial itemization.

By the playtesting phase, we had a playable demo, so we considered that a success. However, there was no tutorial level, so players couldn't figure out the controls on thier own. The game also had many bugs and unintended features. But worst of all, we realized the initial plan for the game was simply not working with the players; they didn't seem to think it was fun, just weird and confusing. As a result, we decided to change the design; make everything simpler by removing build mode, and focus more on making the abilities enjoyable to use and the level design fun and clear.