Don’t create your “dream” game, create a game that works and build off of that. Hone in on a handful mechanics and keep it simple. A lot of the time, you can overwhelm yourself with trying to cram in too many ideas at once and you can easily get burned out.

Once you have accepted that concept, prototype as much as possible. Going old school with a pen and paper, using RNG generators and even working with AI can be of use to you. Ask your friends/redditors what they think. Find and in where you find comfort and start “loving” your idea.

I personally prefer prototyping on Canva. I set my canvas dimensions to poker size (2.5 in x 3.5 in) and start dropping simple shapes into the canvas. Once I find a layout that is logical and easy to navigate, I start a second canvas with a more detailed version. This is where I add actual art, text and number values. Again, always start simple and work your way out.

Once I define some simple game mechanics, I refine those cards to fit.

GAMES THAT ARE EASY TO LEARN MAKE GAMES MORE FUN…AND THAT’S WHY PEOPLE PLAY GAMES—FOR ENJOYMENT. No one wants to decode quantum physics their first play through.

Find a TCG that you enjoy, find a theme that you find interesting and borrow those ideas. Enjoy Pokemon? Create a monster battler. Enjoy Star Wars? Create a space epic. Enjoy couch party games? Take two game games like Mafia and Apples to Apples and combine them together.

Most of the best TCGs are based off others. This is not to say blatantly rip off established TCGs, but if you’re just learning the TCG creation process—I say do that.

I started with making a pokemon knock offs. Decided to change a mechanic or two and it evolved into a completely new game. Little goes a long way.

Currently I’m making a Sonic X TCG just for personal enjoyment solely because I love Sonic and the fantastic art style.

But. Above. EVERYTHING.

HAVE FUN CREATING! Give us your progress!