Game development journal · 25.10.2026
How We Develop an Indie Videogame
Go behind the scenes of indie game development: concept, playable prototype, pixel art, sound design, testing and publishing at Pause Play Games.
Start with one strong interaction
A game does not begin with a giant feature list. It begins with a simple action that feels good: jump, shoot, dig, dodge or deliver. We establish the core loop and build a small playable prototype. Only then do we decide which systems add depth and which merely increase complexity.
Build the world around the mechanics
Level design, enemies, interface and visual effects need to support what the player is doing. For 16-bit-inspired projects, we use distinct silhouettes and deliberately chosen color contrasts to keep action legible. We test the game with real controls, repeat difficult passages and adjust the timing of animations, collisions and rewards.
Audio, testing and release
Music and effects arrive as part of development, not just as decorations at the end. We create original game soundtracks with Maupiti Studios, checking how loops, transitions and intensity fit the action. After bug fixing and performance checks, we prepare a release page, screenshots, descriptions and updates. Our itch.io presence documents that journey.
Pause Play Games × Maupiti Studios
Independent videogames and original game soundtracks · Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
Follow our games on itch.io ↗