How We Launched a Game from Scratch in Just 3 Months

Background:

Two entrepreneurs with extensive experience in a leading Israeli game studio decided to forge their own path by launching a game startup. With initial funding secured and a compelling concept in hand, they were ready to take their idea to the next level.

Task:

Our initial objective was to efficiently and economically conduct a soft launch of the mobile game concept compatible with Android.

Solution

In close collaboration with the client, we embarked on the initial planning phase, crafting a comprehensive roadmap for the project’s launch. This phase was critical for setting the foundation of the project’s success. After approving the idea and concept of the game, our team conducted an in-depth evaluation to identify the essential expertise needed, establish clear deadlines, and define the scope of work. By thoroughly understanding the client’s vision and requirements, we were able to create a strategic plan that ensured all objectives would be met efficiently and effectively.

Key steps in this stage:

  • Concept Development: Finalized and approved the game idea and concept.
  • Expertise Identification: Determined the specific skill sets required for the project, from concept artists to 3D character and props artists, ensuring a cohesive and high-quality output.
  • Timeline and Milestone Definition: Established realistic deadlines and key milestones to keep the project on track and ensure timely delivery.
  • Scope of Work: Clearly outlined the tasks involved, from Unity game development to art creation.

Game Development Process

Transparency is crucial for achieving predictable results in business. To ensure this, we relied on effective project management and communication tools throughout the development process. Our clients had the opportunity to monitor every stage of the project, giving them visibility into progress and completion timelines.

We held weekly meetings with our clients to fine-tune the workflow, showcase weekly results, and discuss plans for the upcoming week. This helped us stay aligned and ensured that everyone was on the same page as we advanced with the project.

The Game Development Process Involved:

Production:

  • Implementing game mechanics, coding, and creating assets.
  • Developing 2D art for objects, environments, characters, animations, and visual elements.
  • Building the game using the Unity engine.

Testing and Pre-launch:

  • Ensuring the game functions correctly, identifying bugs, and optimizing performance.
  • Preparing for the game’s release.
  • Developing marketing strategies, PR campaigns, and community engagement plans.

Launch and Post-Production

Upon launching the game concept, we entered a crucial stage focusing on game economy, marketing, and bolstering our development team. Successfully navigating these stages, the game studio advanced rapidly, expanding our project team to 35 members.

What We Accomplished:

  • Released the game to players.
  • Distributed the game through the Google Play Store.
  • Supported the game post-launch by addressing issues, releasing updates, and making improvements.

Android Release Triumphs

In just three months of development, we launched the proof of concept on Android, and the game took off! The second-day retention exceeded expectations, reaching over 50%. This success validated the founders’ vision, marking a crucial turning point! The next round of investments quickly followed suit.

Team Structure

Game Tech Department:

  • BI Engineers
  • Unity Tech Lead
  • Unity Developers
  • Backend Developers
  • Technical Artists
  • QA Lead
  • QA Engineers

Art Production and Animation

  • Art Lead
  • 2D Artists
  • UI Artists
  • Motion Designers
  • Animators
  • VFX Artists

Results Achieved

For over four years, we’ve been deeply involved in game development and maintenance, assembling a dedicated team of 35 members. Our expanded structure now includes specialized teams for marketing, game economics, product management, art creation, and two development units. Since our collaboration began, we’ve successfully launched four additional games. Remarkably, some of these games progressed from concept to MVP in just two weeks, a testament to our efficient teamwork and internal technical improvements.

Results in Numbers

3 months 28Software
3 months
from idea to proof of concept as the initial stage.
47% cost efficiency 28Software
47% cost efficiency
for the team compared to Israel.
5 games 28Software
5 games
in the studio’s portfolio, and the team's productivity is increasing even though the team size remains the same.

You May Also Like

A company has already developed a prototype for a mobile casual game. The game demonstrated success, prompting the decision to proceed with its further development.
The client was looking for mobile developers to create new software for smart toys, as well as to support and implemented new features for a 9-year-old software with legacy code.
The game studio, known for its successful and popular game played by hundreds of thousands worldwide, required a substantial amount of art content to enhance the quality of graphics for objects and environments.
The product is a web 3.0 gaming platform that combines elements of blockchain technology, decentralized finance (DeFi), and immersive gameplay to create a unique gaming experience.
Let's Create The Future
Together