How to make a game concept that sells the idea

A game concept is a one or two page pitch: the genre, the hook, the core loop and who it is for. Write it so a stranger understands the game in 30 seconds. Then back it with a playable version, because a prototype convinces people faster than any document.

The one-page template

Title and genre. A working title and a familiar label: tycoon, obby, horror, roguelike.
Hook. One sentence on what is new. "A tycoon where your customers are the monsters."
Core loop. What the player does every 30 seconds, written as 3-4 verbs: grab, build, sell, upgrade.
Player goal. The short goal (survive this night) and the long goal (unlock the last floor).
Setting and look. Where it happens and 2-3 reference images for style.
Why it is fun. The feeling you are selling: panic, cleverness, collecting, laughing with friends.
Player and platform. Who plays it and on what. Phone players want short rounds.
What is not in it. A short cut list. It shows you know your scope.

Two filled-in examples

Lava Library. Hook: the floor is lava and books are the only platforms. Loop: pull a book, place it, jump, before the shelves run out. Goal: reach the reading room at the top.
Night Vet. Hook: treat monster pets before sunrise. Loop: read the symptoms, pick a cure, watch the result. A wrong cure makes the pet bigger. Goal: keep the clinic open for five nights.

Prove the hook, then present it

Most concepts skip the step that matters most: proof that the hook is fun. Make a playable version before you pitch. With Roam you type the hook as one sentence on your iPhone, play it the same day and tune it by asking, so the concept arrives with a game attached.

When you present, keep the page to one screen, show the game or a 15-second clip first, and answer one question clearly: why would someone play a second round?

Turn your concept into a playable game

Type your hook into Roam on iPhone and play it. Bring that to the pitch instead of a slide.

Try: "the floor is lava in a giant library, books are the only platforms, reach the top before shelves run out"

Create it with Roam See Roam

Questions people ask

What is a game concept?

A short pitch, usually one or two pages, that states the genre, hook, core loop and target player of a game.

How long should a game concept be?

One page is ideal and two is the limit. Details belong in a design document later.

How do you present a game concept?

Lead with the hook and something playable or a short clip, then the core loop and why it is fun. Keep it under five minutes.

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