3 Tips for Coming Up With Your Next Hybrid Game Idea

The first step in ideating effectively for hybrid games is to understand the below key elements that make a game:

Theme

• Environment, story, and atmosphere of the game

Art Style

• The visual aesthetics, including graphics, 2D or 3D, colors, and character design
• Examples: Cartoonish, Realistic, Minimalist, Abstract.

Mechanic

• The core gameplay actions and interactions.

Control

• How players interact with the game

3 Key Tips:?

1. Find Great References And Learn From Them: Your first step should be heavily investing in researching popular games: review the top charts, new releases by publishers, and data platforms (if you can access them). Analyze what makes them appealing, this can be anything from:?

• Trendy theme
• A game mechanic that is satisfying and fun to play over and over again
• Great economy/level design that creates strong stress points
• Unique art style

Then think about how you can add your unique twist to create something fresh and exciting.

2. Mix and Match Elements: My top tip for coming up with a hybrid game idea is to experiment by combining different themes, art styles, mechanics, and controls from existing games. Start with a game that has a standout mechanic or trending theme and introduce at least one unique twist, whether it’s a new mechanic, theme, control, etc. Adding two or three twists is even better. For example, start with a concept, combine it with two successful mechanics, and add a trending theme. And as always, aim to focus on integrating elements (anything from theme, mechanic, control, art style) that are trending for the highest chances of success. ?

3. Always Keep Your Target Audience in Mind: Ensure the game's theme appeals to a broad audience and doesn't unintentionally narrow its reach. For example, if you're developing a puzzle game — popular with women — you should avoid themes that might overly cater to a male audience (i.e., war, weapons, aliens, etc.).

Remember that your number one goal is to deliver a cohesive experience that resonates with your intended users.