The Unplanned Birth of Tetra Tactics: A Conversation with Lead Developer Jabari Alii

Tetra Tactics, a roguelike deckbuilder, has finally exited Early Access after a year and a half, marking its full release on Steam. Initially known as Card Craft, the game underwent a name change due to trademark issues just before its release. According to lead developer Jabari Alii, the development process was relatively smooth, partly because the game wasn't initially intended to be a large-scale commercial release. Alii started working on Tetra Tactics as a three-month side project, a 'palette cleanser' from a bigger action-RPG project he was working on. The game draws inspiration from the Final Fantasy mini-game Triple Triad, and Alii's passion for card games and RPGs is evident throughout. What began as a small project gained momentum as Alii shared it with his circle, and eventually, his friends and fellow developers Adrian Marple and Manadream joined the project. The team released Tetra Tactics in Early Access in September 2022, which, according to Alii, was a perfect decision. The Early Access model provided the necessary feedback from players, allowing the team to iterate and improve the game. Alii recommends Early Access for small indie developers, citing the financial returns and, more importantly, the valuable feedback from the community. As the game's developer, publisher, and composer of its soundtrack, Alii has worn multiple hats. He also works as the Oakland site director for the Hidden Genius Project, a Black-led non-profit that teaches young Black boys about technology, leadership, and community. The non-profit has a 15-month program that culminates in a capstone project, and Alii has helped create Genius Studios, an alumni-led game studio. When asked about advice for newcomers to the industry, Alii emphasizes the importance of creating something, even if it's not perfect, and finishing it. He also stresses the need to decentralize the industry to create a better environment for junior developers. Alii's journey, from music education to game development, is a testament to the power of perseverance and community support.