How do you integrate game features and systems?

Considering the hypothesis of introducing player competition to enhance metrics, we may encounter two challenges. First, crafting intricate client-server features for multiplayer tournaments can demand significant resources, especially if stable connectivity is crucial. Second, depending on the number of online players introduces the risk of inconsistent user experiences if there are not enough players However, there's an alternative to explore this hypothesis without a full commitment. Simplify your testing by creating bot behaviors that replicate server interactions—emulating opponent actions, scoring, and real-time updates. This approach enables efficient iterations and a smoother user experience, all while conserving resources

- Keep it cheap and dirty. - Know what kind of proto you are making and what you are trying to validate/invalidate. (technical, proof of concept, look & feel, throw away or early version) - Time box it and decide what will be the end of the proto. - Prototyping tool examples: Imagination, Roleplay, pen & paper, LEGO, spreadsheets, board games, generative AI .

Two things to keep in mind while writing modular code and creating modular systems: 1. Is it scalable? - If you are writing code for managing suppose, 100 gameobjects, then always consider down the line if your code can also handle 10000 gameobjects or more. It will always help in the long run to be prepared for extreme scenarios. 2. Does it function independently? - If your code depends on other systems and methods, then it is not fully modular. Make your code exist in a vaccum but be able to communicate when required. This will greatly help in re-using your code in your future projects also.

In game development, modular and reusable code is crucial for creating versatile gaming experiences. Each feature, like character movement or combat mechanics, is developed as a module. This approach offers flexibility, scalability, promotes collaboration, allows code reusability, and simplifies debugging and testing. Overall, it accelerates development, enhances quality, and fosters innovation in gaming.

When writing modular and reusable code is really important to write extensive unit tests to ensure the code is behaving as expected and aim for a test driven development to make even more robust code since the beginning.

Utilizing modular code can prove to be immensely beneficial for both individual developers and the entire team. The adoption of modular programming practices not only enhances efficiency but also contributes to substantial time savings. Furthermore, it plays a pivotal role in facilitating the debugging process and addressing issues within your code effectively. Embracing modularity in coding practices can significantly streamline development workflows and contribute to a more robust and maintainable codebase.

Documentation needs to fit the audience and their needs like any other Media. Some team mates might perform better with schematics or mockup than tables, others better with verbal than written. The production flow might allow lighter documentation directly in the planning tool, other workflows require print-outs for external stakeholders. Know your audience and understand their needs.

Game development usually has 3 stakeholders. 1. the players (they want fun) 2. the team (they want to make a good game) 3. the employer/funders (they want more money) This works like a maslow pyramid but you need all 3 for a successful game. If the project fails to answer the needs of any of these stakeholders it will either : 1. not have players (die) 2. not get done (die) 3. not be profitable (die)