Transforming a Game Jam Project into a Full-Fledged Release: A Developer's Journey

Participating in game jams can be a stepping stone for developers, and sometimes these projects evolve into successful games. Eyes in the Dark is one such example, a black and white roguelite from Croatian developer Under the Stairs. The game's founder and director, Vladimir Bogdanic, recounts how the project began as a game jam prototype and eventually became the studio's debut title. Bogdanic emphasizes the importance of simplicity and uniqueness in a game jam project, as well as the need to ensure that the core mechanics can be expanded into a full game. However, he also notes that just because an initial idea is simple, it doesn't mean the full version will develop quickly. In fact, the journey from game jam to full release can be long and challenging, requiring careful planning, pacing, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Bogdanic's team faced numerous challenges, including funding and investment, and had to navigate the complexities of the game development industry. Despite these obstacles, they remained committed to their vision and eventually found success with the help of Gearbox Publishing. Bogdanic's story offers valuable insights for developers looking to turn their game jam projects into full-fledged releases, highlighting the importance of perseverance, creativity, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. He advises developers to focus on the core mechanics, cut down their scope, and prioritize pre-production to ensure a solid foundation for their game. By doing so, they can increase their chances of success and create a game that resonates with players.