Beating Scope Creep Like a Pro 🐛 - Set Hard Limits: Every feature must pass the “does this add real player value?” test. If not, it’s out. - Feature Wishlist: Park cool ideas in a “future updates” list. It’s not a no; it’s a “not now.” - Track the Clock: Regularly check how new ideas impact the timeline—no one wants a forever-in-development game. - Celebrate Simplicity: Remind the team that a polished core beats a messy feature jungle. Scope creep isn’t bad—it’s ambition unchained. Just make sure the chains stay on! 🎯

The evaluation of Super Mario 3 hinges on its diverse interactive enemies across various worlds and the introduction of numerous new features, all while maintaining consistent user controls. This presents an essential consideration regarding the learning curve: when a new feature enriches the gameplay without necessitating significant additional learning, it benefits the player experience. Conversely, if the introduction of new elements leads to overwhelming complexity, it can deter user engagement. Striking a balance is crucial, as continuous learning requirements can hinder players' sense of progress and achievement. I recommend that the team actively engage with the game, immersing themselves in the players' perspective.

With all projects, eventually you need to have a hard time limit for new features to be added. A.k.a. Feature Lock. Before this happens, any new features that are brought to management or design for implementation should go through a filter. This filter is relative to the goals of the project. For Doom (2016) it was all about keeping the player moving and feeling powerful. If they were brought a new idea, and it didn't serve this goal. It was discarded. Not because it didn't have potential, but because it didn't add to the value and tone they were trying to create for the overall experience.

Taming Scope Creep with Focus and Flexibility 🎮 -> Focus on the Core: Stick to features that enhance the game’s fun and engagement. If it doesn’t strengthen the core, it’s out. -> Create a "Priority Pyramid": Essential features stay at the top; extras go in a “nice-to-have” list for updates. -> Set a Feature Freeze Point: Establish a milestone where no new features can be added. -> Communicate Consequences: Make sure everyone understands how extra features affect timelines, budgets, and quality. -> Celebrate the Essentials: A polished, focused game beats a cluttered one every time. Scope creep is like seasoning—use just enough to keep the flavor balanced! 🍲🎯

I feel scope creep comes from lack of confidence, in my case at least. So I think there's a need for feedback there from real players, to understand if that's even needed.