Game Design in Practice

A professional's Guide to Entertainment Ideation.

  • Learn to structure ideas, build prototypes, and express your vision.
  • Sell your game concept to teams, publishers, and investors with confidence.
  • Validate ideas early with proven tools, techniques, and real case studies.
Coming Soon
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Beginner
English, Español
All Softwares
First Edition
Who this is for.
Game designers at any level who want to master the ideation and early concept stages.
Students studying game design who need a practical framework for brainstorming and prototyping.
Indie developers and mobile game creators who want to turn raw ideas into structured, compelling concepts.
Designed for aspiring designers and game professionals alike, Game Design in Practice is a hands-on guide to mastering the ideation stage — the critical first phase where game concepts take shape. Drawing on real-world experience from mobile and indie game development, this book demystifies the creative chaos of concept generation, team brainstorming, and early prototyping. You’ll start by exploring the nature of entertainment and what players truly seek, then learn how to connect core experiences with meaningful gameplay ideas beyond traditional genre thinking. From crafting playable artifacts to aligning your team through concept documents, this book offers practical frameworks and techniques for turning ideas into structured prototypes. You’ll also discover how to pitch and sell your vision effectively through briefs, pitch decks, and early demos. Whether you’re building your first concept or refining your ideation process, this book equips you with the tools to lead game design from spark to substance.
Note: The chapters, descriptions, and main topics listed below are provisional and may be added to, merged, or otherwise modified as the book is being written. We’ll update this list every time a new chapter is released. 
1. What is Entertainment?
(Under Construction)
  • From Artifacts to Services.
  • The Entertainment Competition.
  • The Practical Entertainment Framework.
  • Pulling the Right Levers.
2. Games Genres VS Fundamental Experience
(Under Construction)
  • The Genre Trap.
  • Finding the Core Experience.
  • Genre as a Tool, Not a Prison.
  • Creating Something That Matters.
3. The Process of Discovery
(Under Construction)
  • Setting Up for Success.
  • Deconstructing Games.
  • Structured Brainstorming.
  • The Art of Documentation.
  • Aligning the Team.
4. Playable Artifacts
(Under Construction)
  • When Paper Isn't Enough.
  • Engine-Ready Prototypes.
  • Classic Prototyping Challenges.
  • Interpreting Prototype Results.
  • From Prototype to Production.
5. Selling Your Vision
(Under Construction)
  • The Three Audiences.
  • Creating Compelling Concept Briefs.
  • Building Pitch Decks That Convert.
  • The Demo Dilemma.
  • Handling Feedback and Rejection.
6. Tools and Techniques
(Under Construction)
  • Digital and Analog Tools.
  • Validation Methodologies.
  • Team Exercises and Workshops.
7. Case Studies in Ideation
(Under Construction)
  • The Indie Miracle.
  • Mobile Innovation.
  • When Ideation Goes Wrong.
Paolo Gambardella
Game Designer and Consultant
Paolo is a game designer specializing in ideation and pre-production of new games. He has collaborated with companies such as Digital Chocolate and Scopely, but he loves to help indies too. Today he is a university lecturer and a freelancer, offering game design services, helping CEOs and product owners bring their visions to life. He has clients from all over the world and loves to spread his knowledge on game design.
Frequently Asked Questions.
What do the books include?
Our books are crafted to provide a deep understanding of each topic with step-by-step explanations, real-world examples, and practical exercises. Each book includes detailed chapters, illustrations, and code samples designed to help you build skills as you read. All of our eBooks are downloadable in PDF format, making it easy to access them offline anytime. Many books also come with supplementary downloadable assets or files to support your learning, and some feature online updates or companion content for the latest industry practices.
Do the courses/eBooks include updates?
Yes, our courses include updates to ensure the content stays current with the latest tools and practices. Our books, which are published chapter by chapter, are also updated regularly until they are considered complete. This approach allows you to benefit from the latest information and improvements as you progress through the material. Once a book is finalized, it remains available in its completed form
Can I download the eBooks?
Our eBooks are fully downloadable in PDF format, allowing you to access them offline anytime.
What do the Hardcover editions include?
Some of our books are offered in a special Hardcover edition through our partner Lulu. If you purchase one, you may also request the project files. If you get the Hardcover edition and don't have an account on Jettelly, we can also create an account for you automatically. Please reach us on [email protected] to get started.
Do you offer certificates upon course completion?
No, we currently do not offer certificates upon course completion. Our focus is on providing high-quality content and practical skills that you can immediately apply to your projects and portfolio.
How long will I have access to the eBooks/Courses after purchase?
You'll have lifetime access to any course you purchase, as long as Jettelly Inc. exists. This allows you to revisit the content anytime and learn at your own pace, without any time restrictions. If you have any questions regarding previous purchases, feel free to email us at [email protected]
Can I get a refund if I'm not satisfied with my purchase?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of our downloadable eBooks, we do not offer refunds. For Hardcover editions, we offer exchanges in case of print quality issues through Lulu. Regardless, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our support team at [email protected], and we'll be happy to assist you.
What happens if I buy a product in development and it's never finished?
Jettelly will issue a refund minus taxes and admin fees.
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