Game Design Document (GDD) Template for Indie Developers
A lean GDD prevents feature creep and helps collaborators join quickly. Include only high‑signal sections.
Sections
- Game Vision: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- Target Platforms: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- Core Loop: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- Mechanics: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- Progression: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- Art & Audio Direction: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- UI / UX Pillars: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- Monetization: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- Technical Risks: Brief 2–4 sentences.
- Milestones: Brief 2–4 sentences.
Core Loop Example
EXPLORE ➜ COLLECT RESOURCES ➜ CRAFT BETTER TOOLS ➜ ACCESS HARDER BIOMES ➜ BOSS FIGHT ➜ EXPANSION
FAQ
How long should a GDD be?
5–10 pages for most indie projects—avoid encyclopedic bloat.
When to update?
After major prototype learnings; keep a revision log.