First playable demo

A first playable demo is the first phase of a video game which is playable outside of the environment in which the game is developed. In the process of game design, it is a significant milestone. It is the first point at which a game has gameplay readily available for demonstration to the general public. Often at this phase, the demo will be shown to others outside the department that developed it, and may be either playable or non-playable to those outside the development process. This demo serves as a proof of concept or pilot, and is used to gain interest from the target audience.[1][2][3]

It is difficult for a video game to achieve a first playable demo, especially for indie developers, who may struggle to retain their attention long enough to construct a cohesive demonstration. However, the difficulties experienced by smaller developers may be significantly less obtrusive by large studios, who work in teams with large budgets to solve problems much easier. Oftentimes graphics and game mechanics may be partially implemented, or omitted entirely. Major bugs may also be present..

The first playable demo of a card game may include a sample of the overall roster of cards, and may essentially be its own game. The first playable demo of a board game may include many hastily scribbled together chits, pieces of paper, and some ad-hoc pieces.

References

  1. ↑ Fields, Tim (2010). Distributed Game Development: Harnessing Global Talent to Create Winning Games. Focal Press. p. 20. ISBN 0-240-81271-9.
  2. ↑ Michael, David R.; Chen, Sande (2006). Serious games: games that educate, train and inform. Thomson Course Technology. p. 267. ISBN 1-59200-622-1.
  3. ↑ McCarthy, David; Curran, Ste; Byron, Simon (2005). The art of producing games. University of Michigan: Thomson. p. 51. ISBN 1-59200-611-6.
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