The Power of Checklists in Game Development

1. The Origins of Checklists: Learning from the Experts

To understand why checklists are essential in game development, let’s dive into their origins. The concept of using a checklist gained prominence after an unfortunate event involving a Boeing airplane known as the "Flying Fortress." During its first air show, disaster struck—not due to the pilot's lack of skill but due to a simple oversight in checking the landing gear. This tragic event highlighted how even the best can overlook basic steps, thus sparking the widespread adoption of checklists in aviation.

Similarly, in medicine, renowned surgeons recognized that minor oversights were causing severe consequences, including infections from incorrect procedures. The adoption of checklists in surgical settings allowed for a proactive approach to avoid such mistakes. The mantra here is simple: even the most skilled professionals can benefit from a systematized process that ensures clarity and focus.

1.1. Lessons for Game Developers

As a game developer, you might think you're too experienced for such basic tools. However, consider that the best artists, including seasoned professionals, regularly rely on checklists. They serve as a simple yet powerful way to maintain quality and oversight throughout the creative process.

TIP: Incorporate a basic checklist in your daily routine. It can help you avoid simple mistakes and maintain a consistent workflow.

2. Understanding Visual Design: The Three Pillars

When addressing checklists, it's essential to factor in how they relate to the artistic process in visual design. Visual design in game development can be broken down into three primary pillars:

1. The Idea: This is a conceptual framework of what you want to create. Perhaps it’s a character, an environment, or a unique game mechanic. It's helpful to articulate this clearly.

2. The Design: Here, we consider its aesthetics: shape language, proportions, colors, and so forth. Ensuring these elements are cohesive is crucial for delivering your vision effectively.

3. The Execution: This pillar deals with how well the idea has been realized in the final product. It includes technical proficiency, persistence, and attention to detail.

By understanding these pillars, you can effectively structure your checklist to focus on what's important.

NOTE: As you develop your checklist, ensure it addresses each pillar clearly.

2.1. Connecting Tone to Design

Tone plays a crucial role in visual design. It encompasses mood, style, and atmosphere. You might consider how lighting, color palettes, and overall aesthetics contribute to the experience. Think of tone as the restaurant setting for the food you are making. For example, the bright and colorful environment in Mario Kart differs dramatically from the dark, eerie atmosphere found in Resident Evil.

By incorporating tone into your checklist, you can ensure that every element aligns with the intended atmosphere of your game, enhancing the player’s experience.

3. The Artist’s Journey: How to Apply Checklists Effectively

Now that we’ve established the importance of checklists and visual design, let's delve into three practical steps to become a better artist immediately.

3.1. Step One: Be Open and Kind

Working in a collaborative environment, which game development often is, necessitates an open-minded approach. Without being approachable and kind, creativity can be stifled.

Remember, you’re not just working on your project. Each artist brings unique perspectives and skills that can enrich the final product. A "no jerk" policy fosters an environment of trust and encouragement.

IMPORTANT!: Your technical skills matter, but your people skills may be even more crucial.

3.2. Step Two: Stop and Think

Before diving into a project, take a moment to reflect on the task at hand. Consider what you are creating, who it's for, and what you want to communicate through your art. By clarifying these points beforehand, you can create a clearer and more purposeful piece of art.

When you come across a task, make it a habit to:

• Ask yourself what you are trying to say with your creation.
• Consider the audience and how they will engage with your work.
• Reflect on the purpose of your design choices.

Under this step, you can include a checklist that prompts you with these critical questions, guiding you toward a more successful execution.

TIP: Use questions to fill out your checklist. They can guide your thought process and make your art more intentional.

3.3. Step Three: Use Reference Material

Using references is integral to the artistic process. Whether it's observing real-life objects or studying other artists’ work, reference material brings a level of authenticity and believability to your creations. You can incorporate the use of references as a checklist item that encourages continual growth.

IMPORTANT!: Avoid relying solely on generic references. Instead, seek unique, expressive references that convey the quality or emotion you're aiming to capture.

Utilizing references can improve your craftsmanship and push your understanding of form, color, and texture.

4. Creating a Personalized Checklist

To tie the concepts explored so far, let’s create a sample checklist. This can serve as a foundation for your own personalized version, tailored to your specific artistic process:

1. Be Open:

   • Am I approachable today?
   • Is my workspace conducive to creativity?

2. Stop and Think:

   • What am I trying to express with this piece?
   • Is this design purposeful for the audience?

3. Use Reference:

   • Have I gathered unique visual references?
   • Did I study different angles, settings, and styles?

4. Visual Design Check:

   • Does my idea align with the intended tone?
   • Are my design elements cohesive?

5. Execution Review:

   • Am I proud of the craftsmanship in this piece?
   • Have I received feedback from peers?

NOTE: Adapt this checklist as you go along. Every project may bring new needs and insights.

Conclusion: The Path to Becoming a Better Artist

Embracing the practice of using checklists can lead to significant improvements in your art. By being open-minded, reflecting thoughtfully, and using references judiciously, you ensure each project is more deliberate and engaging.

As you continue your journey in the game development space, remember that these small, practical tools can make a significant impact. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, the checklist approach can elevate your artistic practice and help streamline your workflow.

It's a simple yet effective way to avoid the pitfalls that often distract even the most skilled artists. So, jot down your checklist today and watch as it transforms your creative process!

Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any additional tips you might have! If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.

Final Tip: If you want to learn more about this subject, I recommend This Amazing Talk HERE, that I used as the main reference for this blog post.