Comparing a Simple GDD vs. a Detailed GDD
To help fellow game designers understand the difference between early stage documentation and full production planning, I created a comparison between a Simple Game Design Document (GDD) and a Detailed GDD, using the concept of an Endless Runner game as an example.
What’s the Difference Between a Simple and a Detailed GDD?
Simple GDD
The Simple GDD acts as a high level overview of the game. It’s often created at the early concept phase and serves to communicate the core idea quickly and clearly ideal for internal reviews, pitching to stakeholders, or team alignment before committing to full production.
- Purpose: Concept validation and initial alignment
- Content: Game vision, target audience, core gameplay loop, key features
- Time to Create: 1–2 days
- Usage: Quick reference for stakeholders or team leads
- Format: Concise, clean, and visual (e.g., slides or brief docs)
- Example Use Case: Pitching an endless runner game featuring collectible power shoes, basic upgrades, and progression mechanics
Use this when you want feedback on the game idea without diving deep into execution.
Download The Simple GDD from the following link – Google Drive
Detailed GDD
The Detailed GDD is a comprehensive and evolving document that supports the development team through production. Once the concept is approved, this becomes the single source of truth for every team involved.
- Purpose: Guide full development across all departments
- Content:
- Game mechanics (detailed)
- Art direction and references
- Level and system design
- Character details and animations
- Audio requirements
- Monetization and economy systems
- UI/UX wireframes
- Technical specs and dev tools
- Production timeline and milestones
- Usage: Daily reference for cross-discipline collaboration
- Format: Living document (Google Docs, Notion, Confluence, or slide decks with embedded links)
- Example Use Case: Outlining character speed scaling, obstacle generation logic, reward probabilities, and shop pricing in the endless runner
Use this when your project enters production and you need tight coordination.
Download The Detailed GDD from the following link – Google Drive
Both documents serve different but equally important purposes in the game development lifecycle. Starting with a clear Simple GDD ensures a shared vision. Expanding it into a Detailed GDD ensures the team has the structure needed to execute that vision effectively.