Questions around designing & developing board games…
From developing board games to helping clients assemble prototypes and mock-ups, the game-making journey can be a minefield of rewarding highs and crushing lows! Although this FAQ list cannot answer for all who work in board game development, I will try to answer what I can from my own perspective.
This FAQ list of common board game questions focuses on some of the most frequent questions I am asked by clients, both old and new.
For those who don’t have time to scroll through the entire list of common questions about designing & developing board games, here is a table to help you find your own questions.
Common Questions Around Designing & Developing Board Games | Most Common
- Is developing a board game expensive?
- How can I help with designing a prototype?
- How do I charge for a project?
- Will I sign an NDA?
- Where am I based?
You may also find some of these supporting links to other blog posts very helpful.
- Is there a board game design process? ( Separate Post )
- Does graphic design have a process?
- Writing a brief for a designer?
If you want to read from top to bottom, here are some of the most common questions around designing & developing board games. Or if you prefer, we can always arrange a paid discussion and 1-to-1 to discuss further your game-making journey.
Is developing a board game expensive?
Developing a board game can be very expensive! In terms of how a board game is objectively approached, the components within the game, manufacturing, development time, and creative journey – all play a part in the costs. And so much more!
Creating a board game can be a costly endeavour for hobbyists and businesses…
There is no beating around the bush; making a game can be very costly for a variety of reasons. Using my experiences in designing and developing board games, for the sake of the client, I try to be budget-aware. In addition to being budget-aware, I also consider approaches in which a client can save money.
Is developing a board game expensive? It can be.
Why are board games SO expensive to make?
Board game development costs can vary significantly depending on the scope of the project, and ‘how’ the project is approached!
A simple card game will cost far less than a fully illustrated, component-heavy tabletop game. Early planning and clear direction can help manage costs effectively, but this is not guaranteed.
Board game design and development involve multiple stages and professional skills to bring the vision to life. Here is a simple breakdown of some of these skills :-
- Concept creation.
- Gameplay mechanics.
- Artwork.
- Prototyping.
- Playtesting.
Developing a board game can be incredibly expensive. More so if 3D components and plastic manufacturing are involved in the process.
How can I help with your board game?
I offer support across the full board game design process. From early ideas to finished prototypes.
This includes game mechanics, visual development, prototyping, and preparing files for print.
The cliché – the USP!
I feel mine resides both in commercial experience and creative passion, and a no-nonsense approach in striving to make something good! I take great joy in seeing a client’s board game idea come to life! If a client has that long-time board game itch… let me know if I can scratch it!
How much do I charge to design a game ( board game prototype )?
I typically work on a day rate for board game design and development services.
This allows flexibility so clients can scale up or down depending on budget and project needs. Clients can also end or cancel a project whenever they want to, as long as my time is compensated.
Budgets are treated as rolling contracts in which the client or I can leave at any time – no obligations.
To highlight, my involvement in making a game is a service, not a product. When hired to help develop a game, I am selling my time and navigating the creative journey with the client. It is a process shared with a mutual goal. You are buying my time, creativity, and skills
How much do I charge to design a game?
By the day, no obligation, no soul-selling contracts. You can go when you’ve had enough, as can I! These projects can be costly to design and develop. Anything from around £800 – £20k. It all depends on what is to be done.
Do I work hourly?
No. Day rates allow for more productive progress, especially with the complexities of board game design and development. My minimum time – factoring in paperwork, 2 days for a small project.
DO I take on small projects?
I tend to prioritise larger board game development projects, but I’m open to smaller ideas depending on scope and budget!
If the concept is strong and clearly defined, and tickles my creative fancy! A project is always worth discussing!
Small project doesn’t always mean small fees, by the way!
*I do not work for free, but I can offer a free 10-minute discovery call – no obligation, no fuss, no expectations. Depending on where you are based!
Can I help create gameplay rules and mechanics?
Yes, I can help with creating game mechanics for your board game.
I can help develop, refine, and balance gameplay in an attempt to make your board game as engaging and functional as possible – but remember, this is all subjective based on opnion!
Although I can help make the gameplay rules and mechanics, the client must take responsibility for their product – as I won’t own the IP! The IP will be clients! All yours!
Tip – a client can only know if they are happy with they play their own game!
Will I sign an NDA?
Yes. Protecting your board game concept and intellectual property is important, and I’m happy to sign an NDA before starting work, but it depends on the NDA’s clauses.
I can create an NDA on a client’s behalf if they prefer.
To what extent can I help you design and develop a board game?
I can assist in a variety of stages in board game development. From initial concept and prototyping, through to polished mock-ups and print-ready board game files. I can help clients take an idea from scratch to something they can see and hold.
Here is such an example.
And almost by magic, a final prototype and mass production model.
I can also work on single components in specific phases of a board game project.
- Idea generation.
- Proof of concept.
- Developing gameplay.
- Content.
- World-building.
- Visual/graphic design.
- Art Direction.
- Illustration.
- Playtesting.
- Sourcing playtesters / working with playtesters!
- Liaison with prototype manufacturers and printers
Do I work with individuals?
Yes, I work with individuals as well as businesses! Size is not an issue. However, it’s important to understand that developing a board game professionally can require a meaningful investment.
I work with hobbyists and passion projects also, but again – these projects can be expensive!
Are there games or projects I tend to avoid?
Any which causes me a loss of sleep and income!
I avoid projects involving copyright infringement, (overly) offensive content, or legally risky ideas. Originality and professionalism are essential in tabletop game design.
In terms of comedy, I am open to working with funny projects! But this can be a tightrope today! I have to assess a game brief on a case-by-case basis!
Do I do graphic design?
I do, and have! Graphic design for board games is, and was, a core part of my professional background. This includes layout, typography, integrating artwork into a cohesive visual system, and building a theme for a board game!
Here is one case study – Designing a retail game.
Or you may be interested in these services here.
Need a hand with your board game design project?
Can I illustrate and create game artwork?
Yes, depending on the style and requirements. I can produce board game illustrations and artwork, or advise when it’s better to bring in a specialist illustrator when a client is looking for a certain style.
It should be noted that I have a certain style and way of drawing – keep this in mind if you would like me to illustrate parts of your game! More on this at the bottom of this post!
Here are a couple of examples.
Can I come up with a concept when developing a board game?
Yes, I can come up with a concept for a board game. But note – coming up with a concept is not easy! I can help turn early ideas into structured board game concepts, ready for development and prototyping.
Are there conversations before a project?
Yes, there are plenty! It is part of my board game-making process. Initial conversations fall under board game consultation services.
These sessions help define direction, scope, and next steps before committing to full development. I can run dedicated 1-to-1 video consultations or a free, quick discovery call on the phone. No obligation, no pressure!
Where am I based?
Ampthill, UK. With the occasional meetings in and around London. Most board game design work is handled remotely, making it easy to collaborate regardless of location.
Furthest distance to date for a project – Australia!
If a client prefers, I can meet anywhere within a commutable train distance as long as my time and travel are compensated. I am less than 50 minutes by train from King’s Cross in London, and I am very familiar with parts of London also – from Wimbledon to King’s Cross to the Southbank area.
I am also, occasionally, able to drive to a location in Bedfordshire as long as petrol and time are compensated.
Do you work collaboratively with clients? ( HYBRID )
It depends on what ‘collaborative’ translates to in real terms.
Collaborative or hybrid working is common in board game development. Teams collaborate in generating ideas, writing, designing, developing, and many other aspects of the game. I avoid reworking design files that have been set up improperly, AI images for print, low-res imagery, or files that are just not suitable. In certain instances, it is necessary to rework files from scratch. I also avoid collaborative work that damages or interferes with my working process. Most people wouldn’t pick up a plumber’s wrench or blow torch and start working the pipes! They’d let the plumber do their job, and I’d expect the same.
Although if a client wishes to write copy, share complete images, inspiration, ideas, discuss, brainstorm, offer opinions, share past projects, hopes and dreams – these are all very welcome. Dividing tasks is efficient.
I have also supplied and passed over project files and design files so that other developers and editors can change or tweak work according to their needs. This would need further discussion, however!
Can I step in partway through a project?
Sometimes, but I’m selective! I avoid projects that are a mess. I have to assess on a case-by-case basis as to whether I can help.
Projects that have structure and clarity are far easier work compared to ones that need to be reworked from the ground up.
I can work ‘in part’ or in certain ‘phases’ of a board game project. From creative design, to ideation to helping to develop a game system. And of course, helping with graphic design and artwork on your board game.
Can I promise that my game will make millions in money?
Erm… no.
Paraphrased – I am rarely asked this question in seriousness – until recently…
No, I cannot guarantee your game will make millions. I don’t proclaim or pretend that using my creative services will guarantee a return or boost in your fortunes. Sorry, wish I could say otherwise!
As is my understanding, board games’ financial success comes from a variety of contributing factors and angles. Many of which are outside of the control of a designer or an individual alone.
Hiring me will not guarantee your millions. But I can guarantee that I will try to help create a design that meets a client’s wants and expectations, with the added extra of sharing my experiences and knowledge.
Game ‘success’ is well outside my remit, and potentially the clients’. However, I am happy to share a success story from my time at a former company, working as part of a team.
How can I stop people from stealing my board game idea?
There’s no single solution. NDAs can help, but for proper intellectual property protection, you should speak with a legal professional. You cannot copyright ‘game mechanics’ as far as I am aware.
Am I a copywriter?
Not professionally.
I can help structure and draft early rules and content, but I would highly recommend using a professional copywriter for final board game rulebook writing. I can only help with the very early draft if I have been commissioned to help with developing game mechanics.
**This text should not be used for the final draft. More on this in another conversation.
Can I proofread text?
No, I cannot proofread copy or text. This is outside of my remit, sorry. If you want to edit your own text in InDesign, you may find these 2 articles interesting.
- How to edit text in gameplay cards with Adobe InDesign.
- Fixing broken text boxes in InDesign with images.
*Text disclaimer: All final print-ready text is the responsibility of the client. I cannot edit or proofread text. I can, however, help with early placeholder text, but a professional proofreader and editor should be employed to help with your project. I cannot take responsibility for typos, grammar mistakes, inaccuracies, spelling mistakes, or other text-based errors. Please proofread all final text and artwork.
In short, I cannot spell for toffee!
Do I offer legal advice?
No. Always consult a qualified legal expert for contracts, copyright, and IP protection.
Is there paperwork involved?
Yes! There is often a fair amount at the start of a board game project. Contracts, briefs, revisions, and production specs are all part of a typical board game development process. Perfect planning helps in establishing core goals and potentially saves money.
Will I work with difficult clients?
I aim to keep projects positive and productive. I won’t work with clients who are aggressive, disengaged, or consistently difficult to collaborate with. I am friendly and professional, but my tolerance has limits – time is also precious.
I also have to make intelligent and progressive decisions with whom and where I work.
Have I developed other board games in the past?
I have developed, helped and co-developed board games in the past. I have worked with charities, start-ups, councils, businesses, and individuals both in the private and public sectors.
- Partial theme design and packaging – Eager Elephants
- London Pub Crawl – Mad Dawg Games
- Streetwise – Teaching about youth homelessness – Conwy Council
- Dino Break – Brighton Council
To list a few.
My initial experience came from working at a gifting company where I learned the ropes of developing party games and game-like products. Under the banner of this company, I had the honour of seeing products I was involved with creating grace the shelves of international retailers. Some of which were undertaken by Hasbro and Asmodee.
What types and genres of games have I worked on?
I have worked across a wide range of genres with a variety of clients. I have worked on party games, education games, dice games, fun card games, fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, racing, music – in a range of styles and themes.
My role in these projects has varied from anything as grass roots board game developer to a graphic designer, to a play tester and test organiser. I can also illustrate characters and help a client to world-build.
Can I work on only part of a board game project?
Yes! I can contribute to specific areas such as game mechanics, artwork, or prototyping. It depends on what a client wants or needs. Budget is also a contributing factor.
Do I work with AI artwork for commercial projects? ( In final product )
I avoid AI imagery for commercial board game artwork.
Copyright and ownership concerns make it risky for print-ready projects. As can formatting AI-generated imagery for print.
I am biased, but I try to encourage clients away from AI visuals. Whether this be a prototype or commercial box art. AI never seems to generally win the hearts of the general public!
Can I work with stock graphics when creating a new project
Yes, I can! When used correctly, stock graphics can be a useful and cost-effective part of development.
However, although stock graphics can be a great time-saving measure, stock imagery is not always the best solution for a variety of reasons. There is a time and place for stock graphics and stock textures, but as a designer and developer, I try to encourage design appeal and originality with my clients.
Can I work as part of a team on a board game project?
Yes, I can work with big or small teams. I can work with individuals.
Will I ‘fix’ or prepare client-made artwork for print?
No. Preparing print-ready board game files requires a correct setup from the start, and fixing unsuitable files is rarely efficient.
I can, in certain circumstances, redraw or recreate files from scratch.
I can also digitise a client’s artwork if it has been created in traditional mediums. But, I personally avoid clients’ print-ready files.
However, I am happy in certain circumstances to create design files that a client may be able to edit or hire a designer to edit in the future.
For the budding DIY graphic designer client out there, you may find some of these posts interesting:
- Editing game card artwork in InDesign
- How to fix broken text boxes in InDesign
- Working the black in print
- Drawing with a Wacom tablet in graphics software
Projects I avoid
I avoid legally questionable, unoriginal, or harmful projects. Clear direction and commitment are also important when taking on new work.
What I can’t do in board game development
I can’t guarantee success or provide legal protection. Some aspects of publishing and commercial success sit outside of design and development.
Neither can I operate at the same capacity or capability as a larger development studio. I do have skills and experience, but I am not an ‘everything’ professional in terms of creating board games, unfortunately!
What I am not!
I am not a publisher, legal advisor, manufacturer or marketing agency.
I specialise in board game design, development, and prototyping—helping bring ideas to life properly.
How to make a retail-ready card game – Other helpful links
- Working Beta testers for board games
- Developing a board game prototype – Education in Youth Homelessness in Wales
- The London pub crawl
- DIY – Editing your own game card artwork in InDesign ( Text )
- Why aren’t my text boxes working in inDesign?
- How to write a brief for a Graphic Designer
- Why is the black colour coming out dull in print?
In addition to these links, I also have some links to 3rd part websites. Please take a look.
Other websites you may find interesting for making games
Okay, you got me. I am the owner of Dragon Bone Games.co.uk. A website all about making games, a niche gaming that you may find interesting to know a bit more about. Here are some links.
*All links lead to the 3rd party website.
- List of UK board games expos
- A list of UK board game distributors
- Where can you get plastic injection moulding in the UK for miniatures
- A selection of UK board game cafes in London
- How to develop a board game prototype
