Game Development Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 9. Prototyping
Prototyping is the process of testing various aspects of an app, usually in a quick and
incomplete manner. The purpose is to find out if a good idea works as imagined. In
this chapter we will cover:
• The steps in the prototyping process
• The types of prototypes
• Methods for rapid prototype development
• Prototyping tools
• A continuation of the prototyping demo
Steps in the prototyping process
The process of prototyping involves the following steps:
1. Defining it: What is your good idea supposed to do?
2. Building it: Pick a prototype type and get it done.
3. Testing it: Is it doing what it's supposed to do?
4. Fixing it: How can it better match the intended design?
Now let's look at each step in more detail.
Defining the prototype
This is the first step in designing the game. Usually a game concept starts with a good
idea. Often at times it will be an activity the player will do; in general it is best to start
with something the player is going to do most often.
The designer should write down, in detail, a description of the activity that the pro-
grammer will use to build the prototype. Let the team review the description to make
sure everyone understands what is required.
