7 Tips for Designing Better AI-Generated Games
The secret to great AI games isn't just a good prompt — it's knowing how to guide the AI. Learn techniques for writing better game descriptions.
GameLab Team
AI Game Lab
1. Be specific about the core mechanic
Instead of saying "make a fun game," describe the core mechanic: "A game where the player taps falling objects to score points, with objects speeding up over time." The more specific your mechanic, the better the result.
Think about what the player actually does second by second — tap, swipe, choose, dodge, collect — and include that in your description.
2. Define win and lose conditions
Every great game has clear stakes. Tell the AI what happens when the player succeeds and what happens when they fail. "The player wins by collecting 10 stars before the timer runs out. They lose if they touch a red obstacle."
Without clear conditions, the AI might generate an open-ended experience that feels aimless.
3. Set the mood with a theme
Themes add personality. "A retro pixel-art space theme" or "a cozy autumn forest" gives the AI creative direction for colors, sounds, and overall atmosphere.
Don't be afraid to get creative with themes — the AI can handle unusual combinations like "underwater steampunk" or "neon jungle."
4. Start simple, then add complexity
Your first prompt should describe the simplest playable version of your game. Once it works, add features through follow-up messages: "Now add a high score system," "Add power-ups that appear randomly."
This iterative approach consistently produces better results than trying to describe everything in a single long prompt.
5. Use difficulty progression
Games that get progressively harder are more engaging. Include phrases like "starts easy and gets harder every 30 seconds" or "each level adds a new type of obstacle."
Difficulty progression keeps players coming back and makes your game feel more polished.
6. Think about mobile-first
Most players will play your game on their phone. Design for touch: tapping, swiping, and tilting work better than complex keyboard controls.
Keep the UI simple with large, clear elements. A game that looks great and plays well on a 6-inch screen will work everywhere.
7. Playtest and iterate
Play your game yourself several times. Is it too easy? Too hard? Boring after 30 seconds? Use follow-up prompts to fix what doesn't feel right.
The best AI-generated games go through 3-5 iterations. Each one makes the game tighter, more fun, and more engaging.