Some Techniques for Success …
Although I don’t consider myself to be particularly successful (I’m probably behind the curve considering how much time I’ve spent developing games). I do have a few techniques which I’ve learned along the way that I think aid in the quest for success in game development.
1 - If you’re having trouble with motivation tackle a technical problem. The creative aspects of game development are great but usually the great creative sparks come when you least expect them. I don’t believe you can control the creative juices per se, only nurture them. What you can control though are technical hang-ups. Next time you’re stuck trying to come up with a game concept engage in a technical activity you hadn’t previously conquered and you’ll find yourself in awe of the creative possibilities your knew found technical knowledge provides.
2 - Always think in terms of IP, just scope it right. Massive IP’s like Star Wars are fantastic. The idea of creating an imaginary universe that generates a cult-like following is the creator’s dream. The only problem with big IP’s is that they are often too ambitious to complete correctly. Every now and then someone like George Lucas comes along and does it but situations like his are the exception. Still, any concept you come up with can contain cross platform/medium functionality. For instance I’m working on an iPhone game/concept which I can sell, create an article about, and include in a book I’m writing. In this sense I’m still creating and leveraging an intellectual property just not on the epic scale we all usually think of as it relates to IP.
3 - Don’t ever give up and don’t listen to anyone or anything but your gut instinct. I’ve been through it all. People in high school told me I wasn’t intelligent enough to develop games, game reviewers have thrashed my work as have publishers, mentors, and friends … heck even my own mother told me I wasn’t good enough at math to make them. I couldn’t care less what anyone ever said because I knew in my gut that I was going to do this no matter what anyone ever said. Shigeru Miyamoto himself could tell me to hang it up and I would do nothing short of consider him an amateur with no vision and continue on my merry way. No one, and I mean NO ONE can tell you it’s impossible to succeed except yourself.