> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.saige.world/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.saige.world/how-to-create-your-game/before-your-start.md).

# Before Your Start

Before you open S.A.I.G.E. and start typing your prompt, take a moment to plan your game.\
A little structure helps AI understand your vision and build something truly fun, balanced, and rewarding.\
Remember, we have a lot of pre-made prompts for you to look at in the Create section.

***

#### **1. Define the Concept**

What kind of game do you want to make?

* Is it fast-paced or strategic?
* Is it skill-based, puzzle-based, or reaction-based?
* What’s the main challenge for the player?

Start simple. The clearer your concept, the better S.A.I.G.E. can translate it into playable mechanics.

***

#### **2. Identify the Core Gameplay Loop**

Every game needs a *loop:* something players do over and over that feels fun.\
Ask yourself:

* What is the player trying to achieve?
* What happens when they succeed or fail?
* Is there a score, level, or progress system?

***

#### **3. Plan the Difficulty Curve**

Games are most fun when they get harder as you play.\
Decide how your game evolves:

* Do enemies move faster?
* Do puzzles get more complex?
* Does time get shorter or obstacles increase?

You can always fine-tune difficulty later using S.A.I.G.E.’s **Game Modifications**.

***

#### **4. Think About the Ending**

Every game needs an ending to rank on leaderboards and activate Play2Earn mechanics.\
This gives players a goal and gives the game structure.

Common endings include:

* **Lives System:** The game ends when the player runs out of lives.
* **Timer:** The player must complete a goal before time runs out.
* **Completion Goal:** Reach a finish line, clear all levels, or solve the final puzzle in a certain amount of time.

The ending defines the challenge and makes victory meaningful.

***

#### **5. Set the Theme and Style**

Decide how your game should *feel*:

* Is it funny, dark, futuristic, or retro?
* What kind of visuals fit best: pixel art, comic, neon cyberpunk, horror gothic?
* What kind of sounds: 8-bit, fantasy, arcade?

You can change or experiment with all of this later using **Art Styles**, **Custom Visuals**, and **AI Sounds**.

***

#### **6. Consider Replay Value**

Ask yourself:

* Can players improve their score each time?
* Are there random or changing elements?
* Could you add new levels, enemies, or patterns later?

Replayability keeps players engaged and helps your game climb the **Trending** section.

***

#### **7. Keep It Simple at First**

You can always expand your game.\
Start with one great idea and one clear goal: S.A.I.G.E. will help you build from there.

***

**💡 The more you plan your game before you start, the smarter S.A.I.G.E. becomes at building it.**\
A strong idea + clear structure = a better AI-generated game.