Prototyping is incredibly important since it helps designers validate an idea.
Some studios will have technical game designers who’s whole job will be to prototype and validate ideas in engine. However, you do not need to know how to program in order to validate an idea. Prototyping can be done using simple, easy to use tools.
First, have a think about the question you are trying to answer and the simplest version of the feature you could do that answers that question. Then select your tool from below!
Difficulty: 🍃
First of all consider if you even need a computer to test out an idea. Nine times out of ten you probably don’t!
Here are some prototype ideas you could do that require no computers at all:
Difficulty: 🍃
Draw in browser or on mobile and link your drawings together.
Difficulty: 🍃
Take photos and link your photos together.
Twine / An open-source tool for telling interactive, nonlinear stories
Difficulty: 🍃🌱
Create interactive fiction. Was used by scriptwriters to prototype Bandersnatch.
Difficulty: 🍃🌱
Create pixel art interactive worlds. Has a vibrant community.