In a world that champions competition and individual success, game design really stands as a place that looks to collaboration and communal achievement. In January 2024, decided to navigate the complexities of bringing a game to market, a decision that led me down paths I hadn’t expected—one of the most brilliant being the discovery of the board games designers community on social media.
I was an early adopter, early quitter, then late adopter of social media. So when I joined Instagram in January, I was bracing for the storm, prepared for the kind of disaster zone that I’d found in other social media areas of the internet. But man I was wrong, I found an oasis. The game design community, particularly on Instagram, cultivates an environment that is welcoming and supportive. Here, game designers, both novices and veterans, willingly share their knowledge, time, and resources, often surpassing expectations in their readiness to assist fellow creators.
What makes the games design community so inherently collaborative?
This departure from the combative nature often seen in online spaces raises an intriguing question: What makes the game design community so inherently collaborative? My observations make me think it’s the intrinsic, playful nature of games themselves. Fun, engaging experiences lie at the heart of what games offer, which seems to inspire a community that values these principles in their interactions. Designers, united by their love for games, foster an environment that reflects the very essence of gameplay—collaboration, enjoyment and shared experiences.
A testament to this spirit of cooperation can be seen in the recent formation of #boardgameprotohype — a hashtag that symbolises the community’s dedication to mutual success and support. It highlights a refreshing perspective: the belief that success need not be a zero-sum game. Here, designers champion the rise of others, understanding that bringing more people into the fold only enriches the landscape for everyone.
Game design seems to lack the sharp edges of competition that might newcomers in other fields. Instead, it offers a welcoming embrace, providing resources, advice, and encouragement from those who have weathered both triumphs and challenges. This openness not helps newbies like me to overcome (some of) the inevitable hurdles of game development but also enriches the process with diverse perspectives and insights.
I’m grateful that this community exists, stumbled upon such a nurturing environment. It not only offers a wealth of knowledge but also a reminder of the fundamental joy that games bring into our lives. As I continue to develop my game, I’m equally committed to contributing to this community. Whether through this blog, engaging on social media, or offline interactions, I want to uphold the values that make this community so special.
To me, the importance of community in game design cannot be understated. It stands as a testament to the power of collective endeavour—a force that not only drives the creation of beautiful games but also fosters a space where creativity, support can flourish. To any aspiring game designers out there, I say: welcome, come on in, grab a seat. Within this community, you’ll find more than just resources and guidance; you’ll discover a sense of belonging and a shared passion that can turn your game design dreams into reality.
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