Follow Your Dreams!!

Ironically, I do not completely believe that. Time has shown me that chasing your goals is far more productive than being lured by your dreams. The amazing thing is, you can often do the thing you love with proper planning. Success in what you love requires you to develop a system that helps you thrive even when you don’t want to move forward. This is something I’ve learned as a developer and something I am still learning as an indie game hobbyist.

Early Beginnings

Like many developers, I wanted to create something that could tell a powerful story. I wanted my visions to encapsulate the masses. I wanted to craft a game that was not just fun to play but deeply resonant. This is how my dream project, Concrete Jungle, was born (more to come on that!). In this universe, I poured all the things I loved about fantasy, magic, and the Harlem Renaissance.

I dove headfirst into learning the art of character development. I wrote stories and scripts, developing rich backstories and intricate worlds. I even started a manga to visualize my ideas. But despite all this passion and creativity, my ideas remained trapped in the dark. One key element always held me back: planning.

Why Continue?

Simply put, I cannot let it go. Bringing my ideas to life in game form is something I can’t walk away from without giving it my all. I know I have amazing stories to tell, but the roadblock has always been my tendency to fall into endless loops of planning without executing. Over time, I’ve realized that breaking out of this cycle requires actionable strategies, and that’s what I want to share with you today.

Lessons Learned as an Indie Game Hobbyist

Here are some of the most important lessons I’ve learned on my journey so far:

1. Start Small, Think Big

One of the biggest mistakes I made early on was trying to tackle massive projects without the experience or resources to see them through. I wanted to create an expansive universe with complex mechanics and breathtaking visuals right out of the gate.

The reality? It’s better to start with something small and manageable. Create a simple prototype or a short narrative game. You’ll gain valuable experience, build confidence, and have something tangible to show for your efforts. Remember, even the most iconic games started as small, focused projects.

2. Set Realistic Goals

It’s easy to get carried away by your passion and set ambitious goals that quickly become overwhelming. Break your project down into smaller, achievable milestones. Celebrate each milestone you reach, no matter how small it may seem. Progress, no matter how incremental, is still progress.

3. Learn the Tools of the Trade

As an indie developer, you’re likely to wear multiple hats: designer, programmer, artist, and marketer. While this can be daunting, it’s also an opportunity to learn. Spend time mastering tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, or Godot. Explore design software like Blender or Photoshop. The more versatile you are, the more control you have over your vision.

4. Don’t Let Perfectionism Paralyze You

Perfectionism is the silent killer of creative projects. I’ve lost count of how many times I scrapped a concept because it didn’t feel "good enough." But I’ve learned that done is better than perfect. Focus on completing your game rather than perfecting every detail. You can always refine your work later.

5. Get Comfortable with Feedback

Your game isn’t just for you; it’s for the players. Share your work with friends, family, or online communities and ask for honest feedback. Listen to what they have to say, even if it’s hard to hear. Constructive criticism will help you grow and improve your game.

6. Join a Community

Indie game development can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Join forums, Discord servers, or local meetups for indie developers. Sharing your journey with others who understand your challenges can be incredibly motivating. Plus, you’ll find support, advice, and potential collaborators.

7. Embrace the Power of Planning

Planning doesn’t have to be a burden. Create a roadmap for your project, complete with deadlines and priorities. Use tools like Trello or Notion to keep track of tasks. Having a clear plan will help you stay organized and focused.

8. Take Breaks and Avoid Burnout

Game development is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s easy to get so absorbed in your work that you neglect your health and well-being. Remember to take regular breaks, eat well, exercise, and spend time with loved ones. A healthy developer is a productive developer.

9. Monetize Smartly

If you’re serious about making a career out of indie game development, think about how you’ll monetize your work. Will you sell your game on platforms like Steam or itch.io? Will you offer in-app purchases or ad revenue? Research your options and plan accordingly.

10. Celebrate Your Wins

Every step forward is worth celebrating. Whether it’s completing your first game, receiving positive feedback, or hitting a sales milestone, take a moment to acknowledge your achievements. Success is a journey, not a destination.

The Concrete Jungle Vision

Let me tell you a little more about Concrete Jungle. This universe is a blend of everything I’ve ever loved: the vibrant culture of the Harlem Renaissance, the mystique of fantasy worlds, and the thrill of magical battles. It’s a world where jazz music fuels spells, where speakeasies double as secret guild halls, and where the streets are alive with color and intrigue.

My goal is to bring Concrete Jungle to life as an interactive experience that captivates players and inspires them to explore their own creative boundaries. It’s a daunting task, but with every lesson I learn, I feel closer to making it a reality.

Closing Thoughts

Chasing your goals isn’t always easy, but it’s infinitely rewarding. The key is to approach your dreams with intention and persistence. Build systems that help you overcome obstacles. Surround yourself with supportive people. And most importantly, keep going, even when it feels like the odds are stacked against you.

Your dream project might feel out of reach right now, but every step you take brings it closer. Whether you’re an aspiring indie developer, an artist, or someone with a story to tell, know that your vision matters. Follow your goals, and let your passion guide you.

You’ve got this. Keep building, keep learning, and keep chasing those dreams—one step at a time.