How to focus

Often times, game developers are overwhelmed with a flurry of calls, emails, IMs while they're in the midst of work. While ignoring them isn't an optimal solution, managing them is.

How do you code a world class game, while that notification counter in your desktop is constantly rising?

A few methods

• Buy short bursts of time. In small and casual games, we've noticed that building a simple feature/solving a bug takes about 5-10 mins of intense focus. Notify your manager and client, and ask for some time. They'll appreciate your effort.

• Make a list. I can't stress this one enough. Have a list of things to solve for the game, and place them in a simple TODO text file, within your project. A list makes sure you never forget. A simple exercise is to wake up every day and make a list.

• Avoid small talk. Forget catching up with the latest youtube video, or that MMO game you were playing. Get your favorite coffee/tea, sit in front of the monitor, set that phone on vibrate and code away. In small work environments, small talk also disrupts colleagues.