{"id":924,"date":"2024-12-15T11:43:00","date_gmt":"2024-12-15T03:43:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site:4000\/?p=924"},"modified":"2025-05-20T00:06:19","modified_gmt":"2025-05-19T16:06:19","slug":"%e6%b8%b8%e6%88%8f%e5%88%9d%e5%88%9b%e9%a1%b9%e7%9b%ae%e5%b0%8f%e5%86%8c%e5%ad%90","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/archives\/924","title":{"rendered":"Academic Traces | Games Start-Up Project Booklet"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>In this assignment you are expected to pitch a MVP (Minimal Viable Product) for a product or service in the games and interactive entertainment sectors to a group of potential early stage investors. You will construct a simple business plan for the product as well as an investor presentation. Your submission will include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>An analysis of the kind of investor which may be interested in investing, including how you could potentially approach them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A description of the MVP (minimal Viable Product)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The market it serves, including 2 personas of potential customers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Other competitive products<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The USP (Unique Selling Proposition)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A 60 second elevator pitch<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Simplified business plan, showing your funding and revenue requirements for the first 18 months<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A simple spreadsheet, showing predicted revenue and costs over an 18-month period, as a basic cash flow. (Corporation Tax and VAT does not need to be included).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A 8 slide pitch deck<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>3 minute pitch video, please include link to video in your report<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-vivid-cyan-blue-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-vivid-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Description of the MVP<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The name of the game product is SolarBalls: Space Maintenance Man. This game is a puzzle game based on the SolarBalls animation IP. In the game, the player will play the role of the animated human character Astronaut Dude, with the help of various props and unique zero-gravity movement, to solve all kinds of problems encountered in the space station, the universe and various planets. At the same time, according to the scene where the level is located, the game will also be interspersed with some knowledge of space science content, and show the unique physical effects on different planets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Investor Analysis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" type=\"1\">\n<li>Puzzle game publishers and investors<br>Publishers with experience in puzzle games, such as Rovio, Playrix and Voodoo, may be interested in this game. The best way to get in touch with this type of investor is to participate in a series of game shows such as GDC, Gamescom, etc. These occasions bring together a large number of investors and decision makers in the game industry, and I can meet with them face-to-face. In addition I can also use online communities or platforms to attract some potential investors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Investors in science and education<br>Because this game contains science content, if it is promoted as a science or education product, it may attract the interest of science communication agencies, educational foundations, and astronomy research organisations. For these investors, on the one hand, I need to contact these organisations directly to explore the possibility of cooperation; on the other hand, I also need to strengthen the connection between the game and the popularisation of astronomical knowledge science, and show as much as possible the combination of the game and education. At the same time, I can also co-operate with some educational platforms, such as BrainPOP, to get more investment channels.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Market Analysis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I think this game can cover four major markets:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" type=\"1\">\n<li>Puzzle game market<br>Geared towards players who enjoy logical thinking and puzzle solving.<br>This group is distributed in all age groups, focuses on the design sense and challenge of the game, and may tend to have a casual experience. They have a high willingness to pay and are suitable for realising cash through in-app purchases or advertisements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Educational market<br>For the edutainment category of users, especially parents and educational organisations that have a need for educational games.<br>This group is open to novel teaching tools, especially interactive content that leads students to learn about astronomy. They may adopt the game as a teaching resource, especially in astronomy or physics courses, and are willing to pay a subscription for it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Astronomy enthusiast market<br>Users who are interested in astronomy and universe exploration.<br>This group is also distributed in all age groups, and is interested in scientific exploration, astronomy and science education, willing to try educational games, but less interested in paid content.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>IP fans market<br>The core group of fans who love the SolarBalls animation. <br>This group has a strong interest in the solar system and astronomy, is familiar with the animated characters and plots, and already has an emotional connection that translates into a high conversion rate.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Analysis of other competitive products<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" type=\"1\">\n<li>\u300aCut the Rope\u300b<br>This is a physics-based puzzle game that is competitive in the puzzle game field. It has the advantage of simple and intuitive gameplay that appeals to a wide range of age groups, but it lacks educational and scientific attributes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u300aAngry Birds Space\u300b<br>This game is based on the classic \u2018slingshot+physics\u2019 puzzle gameplay and introduces the physics mechanism of space gravity, which has a certain competitiveness in the field of IP adaptation and space theme. Its advantage is that it has a globally famous IP and a mature fan base, but it also lacks educational attributes and science attributes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u300aUniverse Sandbox\u300b<br>The core gameplay of this game is that players simulate universal phenomenon and test astronomical theories and the laws of celestial motion, which is competitive in the field of astronomical education. Its advantage is that it sells itself as educational and is popular with astronomy enthusiasts, but it lacks gamification goals or breakout mechanisms.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Unique Selling Proposition<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>IP-driven: Combining SolarBalls animated characters to attract the fans and create a character-inspired gaming experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Edutainment: The integration of puzzles and astronomy popularisation to satisfy the dual needs of players for entertainment and learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unique space environment: Operating props in zero gravity, extreme temperature and other space backgrounds enhances the sense of immersion and innovation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Combination of vision and education: The combination of animated characters and real astronomical environment is both interesting and scientific.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Elevator Pitch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Imagine taking on the role of your favourite character from SolarBalls and travelling through the amazing world of our solar system, solving thrilling space problems and learning about real-life astronomy at the same time!<br>Our game combines the humour and character appeal of the SolarBalls animation with puzzle levels and unique prop play, allowing players to solve challenges like asteroid impacts, Martian dust storms and more with strategy and creativity. Moreover, each level takes you deeper into planetary properties and the mysteries of the universe, making learning easy, fun and interactive.<br>Whether you're a fan of animation, a puzzle gamer, or just want to use games to inspire your child's passion for science, this game has you covered! Now, we are looking for supporters to work together to bring this fun and educational space game to the global market. Would you like to join this journey to explore the universe and inspire your mind?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Simplified Business Plan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2160. Abstract<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Project Information:<\/strong><br>SolarBalls: Space Maintenance Man is a puzzle game developed based on the SolarBalls animation IP. Players play the role of the animated character, through the use of a variety of skills and props to solve the unique challenges in space, while learning astronomy knowledge related to the solar system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Market Opportunity:<\/strong><br>The current market lacks high-quality astronomy-themed puzzle games, which represents a huge opportunity for our game. At the same time, SolarBalls' fan base and demand for STEM education provides a significant market opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Core Advantage:<\/strong><br>Our game combines IP fan economy, unique gameplay with fun and education, and the visual appeal of the space theme, thus creating a differentiated competitiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Financing requirement:<\/strong><br>\u00a3100,000 sought for game development, marketing and operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2161. Product Description<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Product Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" type=\"1\">\n<li><strong>Core gameplay<\/strong>: Players operate props in zero gravity, extreme temperature and other space background to complete the decryption of each level and tasks (such as using gravity to cross the asteroid belt or solve the energy crisis on Mars).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Educational function<\/strong>: learn about planetary properties and cosmic phenomena in each level of challenge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Animation<\/strong>: Retain SolarBalls\u2018 humorous style and characters\u2019 personalities, and deeply integrate plot elements.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Unique Selling Point:<\/strong><br>The game combines the appeal of SolarBalls' IP with unique gameplay aimed at the fan base, astronomy enthusiasts and puzzle gamers.<br>The in-game space science content and space experience satisfies both entertainment and learning needs, and is aimed at parents and educational institutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2162. Market Analysis<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Target Market:<\/strong><br>SolarBalls fans: millions of animated viewers worldwide, primarily teens and their families.<br>Puzzle Gamers: A broad user base that loves puzzle solving, strategy and light-hearted gaming experiences.<br>Education market: growing demand for fun and educational products from parents and educational institutions.<br>Astronomy enthusiasts: Interested in scientific exploration, astronomy, and science education, and willing to try novel games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Market Size:<\/strong><br>The market size of the Puzzle and Educational Games Market was over $10 billion in 2023 and is still growing at a rapid pace. According to research firm Verified Market Research, the market size for puzzle games and educational games will reach $32.57 billion and $21.58 billion respectively in 2031. The CAGR during this period will be 18.17% and 38.67% respectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Competitive Analysis:<\/strong><br>Competitors: such as Cut the Rope, Angry Birds, Universe Sandbox. <br>Competitive Advantage: Has the fan base of SolarBalls animation as a foundation, and includes science education attributes as well as unique space gameplay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2163. Marketing and Sales Strategies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pricing strategy:<\/strong><br>The basic part of the game is free, with in-app purchased content (e.g. premium props, special characters). Also launch educational content subscription for educational institutions and parents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Promotion Channel:<\/strong><br>Animation platform collaboration: promote through the official channel of SolarBalls animation.<br>Social media: Publish interesting game demo videos on YouTube, Twitter and other platforms.<br>Educational cooperation: Promote with schools, planetariums and other organisations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>User Acquisition Strategy:<\/strong><br>Use IP to attract initial users and keep players active through continuous updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2164. Operational Plan<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Product Development:<\/strong><br>Estimated Development Cycle: Divided into two phases for a total of 6 months to complete the development of the entire game.<br>Phase 1: Core gameplay development and testing.<br>Phase 2: Character art and plot integration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Resource Needs:<\/strong><br>Hire developers, art designers and marketing staff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Continuous Operation:<\/strong><br>Update new levels and content every quarter to keep players sticky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2165. Financial Planning<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Amount financed:<\/strong><br>\u00a3100,000<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Purpose of Funding:<\/strong><br>R&amp;D costs: \u00a370k (art design, level development, system testing).<br>Marketing: \u00a310k (social media advertising, educational co-op promotions).<br>Operational support: \u00a35k (servers).<br>Other expenses: \u00a315k (office rent, utilities, insurance, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Revenue Sources:<\/strong><br>In-app purchases: estimated at 90% of total revenue.<br>Monthly subscriptions and co-operative projects: estimated at 10%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Profit Expectations:<\/strong><br>Expect to reach break-even point when the game releases, payback within 18 months and net profit of \u00a3300,000 within three years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Return on investment:<\/strong><br>The investor will receive a 20% share of the project's proceeds, as well as preferential investment rights in future expansion projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2166. Risks and Responses<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Risk of IP dependence\uff1a<\/strong>If the popularity of the anime declines it may affect user interest.<br><strong>Countermeasure\uff1a<\/strong>Continuously update game content independent of the animation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Risk of market competition\uff1a<\/strong>Intense competition in the puzzle game market.<br><strong>Countermeasure\uff1a<\/strong>Highlight the dual value of education and IP, and enhance user stickiness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Technical risk\uff1a<\/strong>Development progress may be delayed.<br><strong>Countermeasure\uff1a<\/strong>Reasonable planning of the development cycle and resource allocation in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Presentation Video<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/pel5Oht-PaU\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen=\"\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-vivid-cyan-blue-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-vivid-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Assignment score\uff1a<\/strong>80\/100<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Instructor feedback\uff1a<\/strong><br>Handed well<br>Confident presentation covering all the major points<br>Good ideas on the market comparing to other physic games, targeting parents is sound<br>Room for improvement<br>More ideas on how to make the game marking viral would be useful<br>Consider how to sell these to players who may not even know they like physics\/science<br>More detail on monetisation would be useful, consider who\u2019d be paying<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\u5728\u6b64\u4f5c\u4e1a\u4e2d\uff0c\u60a8\u9700\u8981\u5411\u4e00\u7ec4\u6f5c\u5728\u7684\u65e9\u671f\u6295\u8d44\u8005\u63a8\u9500\u6e38\u620f\u548c\u4e92\u52a8\u5a31\u4e50\u9886\u57df\u4ea7\u54c1\u6216\u670d\u52a1\u7684 MVP\uff08\u6700\u5c0f\u53ef\u884c\u4ea7\u54c1\uff09\u3002\u60a8\u5c06\u4e3a\u4ea7\u54c1 [&hellip;]<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":111,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[45,43],"class_list":["post-924","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-academic-traces","tag-45","tag-industry-analysis"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/924","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=924"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/924\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1224,"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/924\/revisions\/1224"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/111"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=924"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=924"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.admiralspee.site\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=924"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}