R&D: Difference between revisions

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(→‎Play Design: Changed 'codenamed Milk' to War of the Spark as we know the name of the set now.)
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==General==
==General==
There are several teams within R&D. [[Design]] creates the vision, while [[#Development|development]] upholds that vision even if it has to make some changes to get it there.<ref>{{EzTumblr|url=http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/155935558763/hi-mark-based-on-questions-asked-here-where-your|title=I think there is a lot of confusion between the difference in responsibilities of designers and developers. Could you clarify?|date=January 16, 2017}}</ref> The design/development split is a very important facet to Wizards R&D. It ensures that each set has two different set of eyes overlooking each decision to make sure that what we end up with is the best the set can be.<ref>{{NewRef|making-magic/know-how-part-1-2010-07-12|Know How, Part 1|[[Mark Rosewater]]|July 12, 2010}}</ref><ref name="Developing Development">{{NewRef|latest-developments/developing-development-2012-08-24|Developing Development|[[Zac Hill]]|August 24, 2012}}</ref> Other teams in ''Magic'' R&D are [[#Creative|creative]], [[#Editing|editing]] and [[#Digital|digital]]. Despite the R in R&D, there is no research team.<ref>{{EzTumblr|url=http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/117370364473/maybe-you-could-write-an-article-or-podcast|title=An article about divisions that have happened between Research, Development, Design and Creative?|date=April 25, 2015}}</ref>
There are several teams within R&D. [[Design]] creates the vision, while [[#Development|development]] upholds that vision even if it has to make some changes to get it there.<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/155935558763/hi-mark-based-on-questions-asked-here-where-your|title=I think there is a lot of confusion between the difference in responsibilities of designers and developers. Could you clarify?|January 16, 2017}}</ref> The design/development split is a very important facet to Wizards R&D. It ensures that each set has two different set of eyes overlooking each decision to make sure that what we end up with is the best the set can be.<ref>{{NewRef|making-magic/know-how-part-1-2010-07-12|Know How, Part 1|[[Mark Rosewater]]|July 12, 2010}}</ref><ref name="Developing Development">{{NewRef|latest-developments/developing-development-2012-08-24|Developing Development|[[Zac Hill]]|August 24, 2012}}</ref> Other teams in ''Magic'' R&D are [[#Creative|creative]], [[#Editing|editing]] and [[#Digital|digital]]. Despite the R in R&D, there is no research team.<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/117370364473/maybe-you-could-write-an-article-or-podcast|title=An article about divisions that have happened between Research, Development, Design and Creative?|April 25, 2015}}</ref>


From the release of ''[[Magic 2014]]'' until ''[[Dominaria]]'', design and development teams were officially referred to as "Initial Concept and Game Design" and "Final Game Design and Development" teams, respectively. Although these names had previously been in use at Wizards of the Coast internally, the announcement for ''M14'' was the first to use them in public.<ref>{{EzTumblr|url=http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/39938164882/what-prompted-the-change-in-departmental-titles|title=What prompted the change in departmental titles for announcement articles?|date=January 07, 2013}}</ref> Starting with ''Dominaria'' they were officially referred to as Vision Design and Set Design, with the added Play Design team.
From the release of ''[[Magic 2014]]'' until ''[[Dominaria]]'', design and development teams were officially referred to as "Initial Concept and Game Design" and "Final Game Design and Development" teams, respectively. Although these names had previously been in use at Wizards of the Coast internally, the announcement for ''M14'' was the first to use them in public.<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/39938164882/what-prompted-the-change-in-departmental-titles|title=What prompted the change in departmental titles for announcement articles?|January 07, 2013}}</ref> Starting with ''Dominaria'' they were officially referred to as Vision Design and Set Design, with the added Play Design team.
===R&D principles===
===R&D principles===
[[File:PrinciplesOfRD.jpg|right|thumb|title=A poster hung in R&D's workspace, detailing their principles.|A poster detailing R&D's declared principles.<ref>{{EzTumblr|url=http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/133834289028/this-is-the-sign-by-my-desk-that-was-in-the-video|title=This is the sign by my desk that was in the video.|date=November 23, 2015}}</ref>]]
[[File:PrinciplesOfRD.jpg|right|thumb|title=A poster hung in R&D's workspace, detailing their principles.|A poster detailing R&D's declared principles.<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/133834289028/this-is-the-sign-by-my-desk-that-was-in-the-video|title=This is the sign by my desk that was in the video.|November 23, 2015}}</ref>]]
As posted in job advertisements, R&D upholds the following principles:
As posted in job advertisements, R&D upholds the following principles:


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==Process==
==Process==
It takes about two years from start to finish to make a ''Magic'' set, and a set is finalized by R&D six to eight months prior to release.<ref>{{NewRef|latest-developments/using-real-world-data-2016-02-11|Using Real-World Data|[[Sam Stoddard]]|February 11, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|latest-developments/long-hard-road-print-2017-04-21|Long Hard Road to Print|[[Sam Stoddard]]|April 21, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{EzTumblr|url=http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/157385528103/|title=How long before its release is a set completely finalized?|date=February 17, 2017}}</ref> The creation process moves through several steps on the way to a final product. These steps are not strictly sequential, and overlap.<ref>{{EzTumblr|url=http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/134134177173|title=Can you remind us what the order is...|date=November 28, 2015}}</ref>
It takes about two years from start to finish to make a ''Magic'' set, and a set is finalized by R&D six to eight months prior to release.<ref>{{NewRef|latest-developments/using-real-world-data-2016-02-11|Using Real-World Data|[[Sam Stoddard]]|February 11, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|latest-developments/long-hard-road-print-2017-04-21|Long Hard Road to Print|[[Sam Stoddard]]|April 21, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/157385528103/|title=How long before its release is a set completely finalized?|February 17, 2017}}</ref> The creation process moves through several steps on the way to a final product. These steps are not strictly sequential, and overlap.<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/134134177173|title=Can you remind us what the order is...|November 28, 2015}}</ref>
* [[#Creative|Exploratory world building]]
* [[#Creative|Exploratory world building]]
* [[Design#Exploratory design|Exploratory design]]
* [[Design#Exploratory design|Exploratory design]]
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While design is going on, the editing team of [[Del Laugel]] has a check-in with the rules manager to make sure that what they are doing things that will work. The team is constantly monitoring the card file as it goes along. They start editing it usually at some point during development. And even in design sometimes they’ll make notes on general wordings. Then futher in development, templating starts. Each set has a lead editor. Together with the rules manager (who may be the same person) and the development lead, they try to figure out how the cards have to read. Editing also involves writing [[reminder text]].<ref name="Life of a Card"/> Furthermore, it is Editing’s job to make sure the art comes in and the names and flavor text get done, and takes care of [[collector numbers]] and other [[information below the text box]]. After the cards are physically laid out by the CAPS team (Creative and Professional Services), Editting gives the final go ahead to create the [[print sheet]]s.
While design is going on, the editing team of [[Del Laugel]] has a check-in with the rules manager to make sure that what they are doing things that will work. The team is constantly monitoring the card file as it goes along. They start editing it usually at some point during development. And even in design sometimes they’ll make notes on general wordings. Then futher in development, templating starts. Each set has a lead editor. Together with the rules manager (who may be the same person) and the development lead, they try to figure out how the cards have to read. Editing also involves writing [[reminder text]].<ref name="Life of a Card"/> Furthermore, it is Editing’s job to make sure the art comes in and the names and flavor text get done, and takes care of [[collector numbers]] and other [[information below the text box]]. After the cards are physically laid out by the CAPS team (Creative and Professional Services), Editting gives the final go ahead to create the [[print sheet]]s.


The team is also responsible for the full editing and proofing of ''Magic'' packaging, inserts, rules materials, and other ancillary items. Since 2018, they are combined wtih the Rules Manager and the Graphic designers in the '''Delta Team'''.<ref>{{EzTumblr|url=http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/171949357648/hi-mark-there-is-a-delta-team-in-the-credits|title= there is a "delta team" in the credits for 'Masters 25". What's that?|date=March 16, 2018}}</ref>
The team is also responsible for the full editing and proofing of ''Magic'' packaging, inserts, rules materials, and other ancillary items. Since 2018, they are combined wtih the Rules Manager and the Graphic designers in the '''Delta Team'''.<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/171949357648/hi-mark-there-is-a-delta-team-in-the-credits|title= there is a "delta team" in the credits for 'Masters 25". What's that?|March 16, 2018}}</ref>


==Digital==
==Digital==

Revision as of 23:44, 31 March 2019

R&D is an abbreviation for Research & Design, formerly Research & Development. It is the section of Wizards of the Coast that creates upcoming sets and cards for Magic: The Gathering.

General

There are several teams within R&D. Design creates the vision, while development upholds that vision even if it has to make some changes to get it there.[1] The design/development split is a very important facet to Wizards R&D. It ensures that each set has two different set of eyes overlooking each decision to make sure that what we end up with is the best the set can be.[2][3] Other teams in Magic R&D are creative, editing and digital. Despite the R in R&D, there is no research team.[4]

From the release of Magic 2014 until Dominaria, design and development teams were officially referred to as "Initial Concept and Game Design" and "Final Game Design and Development" teams, respectively. Although these names had previously been in use at Wizards of the Coast internally, the announcement for M14 was the first to use them in public.[5] Starting with Dominaria they were officially referred to as Vision Design and Set Design, with the added Play Design team.

R&D principles

A poster detailing R&D's declared principles.[6]

As posted in job advertisements, R&D upholds the following principles:

  • We are stewards of Magic.
  • We are passionate about Magic.
  • We believe Magic makes a difference.
  • We focus on growing Magic’s audience.
  • We believe in discovery, surprise, and strategy.
  • We listen.
  • We improve.
  • We collaborate.
  • We debate.
  • We are inclusive and respectful.
  • We expect greatness.

Process

It takes about two years from start to finish to make a Magic set, and a set is finalized by R&D six to eight months prior to release.[7][8][9] The creation process moves through several steps on the way to a final product. These steps are not strictly sequential, and overlap.[10]

Design

Main article: Design

The designers create new cards, mechanics, and themes for Magic sets. Every set should do something innovative that hasn't been done before. It also should bring back something from the past and present it in a new light, it should add new elements to old ideas.

Vision Design

Starting with the Dominaria set, the design team was rebranded as Vision Design, with a shortened and more creative focused task.[11]

Development

At its essence, design is responsible for vision, and development for execution.[12][13] Many think that development's job is to just tweak numbers and correctly cost things, but the main job for developers is to make Magic as fun as it can be for all the different types of players.[14] Most of the time is spent working on game-play design to ensure the play experience is as good as it can possibly be.[15][16] This means that the mechanics and themes and overall feel of a design file should express themselves satisfyingly when actual games are played. The developers try to find the most fun parts of the design and bring them to the forefront of the set, and kill unwanted elements.[17][18][19] Casting costs and other balance issues for both Limited and Constructed are still considered.[3] To assess the strength of a card or card set, development uses a process called "pointing".[20][21][22][23]

One of the most important parts to developing sets today is to create cross-block synergies so the sets within Standard play well with each other, but also so that there is enough of a change when Standard rotates to change things up. A diverse and shifting metagame is a healthy metagame.[24] After structural development, there is format development. By the time format development begins, most of the previous set is locked down, and the new set has to integrate with it for both Limited and Constructed.[25]

Development has many interactions with the other teams within Magic R&D, but also with Brand (the people in charge of marketing, advertising, products, the website, and Organized Play).[26]

Set Design

Starting with the Dominaria set, the development team was rebranded as Set Design, with an extended task to take the design from a set from concept all the way to finished product.[11]

Play Design

Main article: Play Design

Play Design is a team introduced in 2017, dedicated to the health of tournament environments. This expands on a task previously performed by development. The first set to have Play Design input is Dominaria, the first set to have a full Play Design focus is War of the Spark, and the first set to have Play Design input in vision is codenamed Archery.[11]

Product Architecture

The Product Architecture or product design team was created in 2017. Led by Mark Globus, it tries to create a cohesive message and goal in the wide range of Magic sets and releases.[27] Other members are Gavin Verhey and Mark Heggen.[28][29]

Creative

The R&D Narrative Team team begins work on the card's creative elements once the card is in its near-final state (ideally).[30]

  • Concepting — Creative looks at the card's mechanics and decides what kind of creature / spell / location / object it should be within the setting.[31]
  • Art Description — Creative writes an art description for the artist based on the concept.
  • Art — The art director commissions a freelance artist to illustrate the card. The artist illustrates it to the art description with feedback from the art director and the creative team.
  • Name and flavor text — Creative solicits and selects from contributing writers' name and flavor text submissions for the card. Keywords are also given their final name by this group of people.[31]
  • Packaging text — Very short summaries which capture the essence of product and flavor.

At the very beginning of the creative process there is a concept push of world-building, where a specially picked team of Magic artists are flown in for a couple of weeks to generate sketches and ideas for what a brand new world looks like.[32][33] This results in a style guide [34][35]

The creative team also contributes to articles (Uncharted Realms), webcomics, player guides and the occasional book.[36] As off 2016, the team who oversee all things Vorthos is:

Creative writers:

In 2018, Nic Kelman became the Entertainment Designer, the overall manager of the team. Acknowledged writers like Martha Wells, Kate Elliott, and Cassandra Khaw were hired to create content for Magic Story.[37]

Editing

While design is going on, the editing team of Del Laugel has a check-in with the rules manager to make sure that what they are doing things that will work. The team is constantly monitoring the card file as it goes along. They start editing it usually at some point during development. And even in design sometimes they’ll make notes on general wordings. Then futher in development, templating starts. Each set has a lead editor. Together with the rules manager (who may be the same person) and the development lead, they try to figure out how the cards have to read. Editing also involves writing reminder text.[31] Furthermore, it is Editing’s job to make sure the art comes in and the names and flavor text get done, and takes care of collector numbers and other information below the text box. After the cards are physically laid out by the CAPS team (Creative and Professional Services), Editting gives the final go ahead to create the print sheets.

The team is also responsible for the full editing and proofing of Magic packaging, inserts, rules materials, and other ancillary items. Since 2018, they are combined wtih the Rules Manager and the Graphic designers in the Delta Team.[38]

Digital

The Magic Digital R&D team, not to be confused with the Magic Online team, is responsible for coordinating game design resources for digital projects, like building decks for Duels of the Planeswalkers or creating the list for the Magic Online Cube.[3] In January 2017, both the Digital team and the Magic Online team were incorporated in the Digital Games Studio.[39]

Trivia

  • Look at Me, I'm R&D from Unhinged is a parody of R&Ds playtesting process. The card looks like the card Moat with a sticker pasted on top of it, which R&D uses for playtesting. The cost, card type, and the rules on the card have also been modified with a pen during the playtest, presumably because the printed rules proved counter-intuitive or overpowered. The card is also the successor to Look at me, I'm the DCI from Unglued.

See also

References

  1. ↑ Mark Rosewater (January 16, 2017). "I think there is a lot of confusion between the difference in responsibilities of designers and developers. Could you clarify?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  2. ↑ Template:NewRef
  3. ↑ a b c Template:NewRef
  4. ↑ Mark Rosewater (April 25, 2015). "An article about divisions that have happened between Research, Development, Design and Creative?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  5. ↑ Mark Rosewater (January 07, 2013). "What prompted the change in departmental titles for announcement articles?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  6. ↑ Mark Rosewater (November 23, 2015). "This is the sign by my desk that was in the video.". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  7. ↑ Template:NewRef
  8. ↑ Template:NewRef
  9. ↑ Mark Rosewater (February 17, 2017). "How long before its release is a set completely finalized?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  10. ↑ Mark Rosewater (November 28, 2015). "Can you remind us what the order is...". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  11. ↑ a b c Template:NewRef
  12. ↑ Template:NewRef
  13. ↑ Template:NewRef
  14. ↑ Template:NewRef
  15. ↑ Template:NewRef
  16. ↑ Template:NewRef
  17. ↑ Template:NewRef
  18. ↑ Template:NewRef
  19. ↑ Template:NewRef
  20. ↑ Template:NewRef
  21. ↑ Template:NewRef
  22. ↑ Template:NewRef
  23. ↑ Template:NewRef
  24. ↑ Template:NewRef
  25. ↑ Template:NewRef
  26. ↑ Template:NewRef
  27. ↑ Template:NewRef
  28. ↑ Template:NewRef
  29. ↑ Template:NewRef
  30. ↑ Template:NewRef
  31. ↑ a b c Mark Rosewater (January 9, 2015) "Life of a Card" ,Drive to Work (transcript)
  32. ↑ Template:NewRef
  33. ↑ Template:NewRef
  34. ↑ Template:NewRef
  35. ↑ Template:NewRef
  36. ↑ Template:NewRef
  37. ↑ Aidan Moher (September 12, 2018). "Spellbound : The Familiar Faces Creating the Story for Magic: The Gathering". Tor.com
  38. ↑ Mark Rosewater (March 16, 2018). "there is a "delta team" in the credits for 'Masters 25". What's that?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  39. ↑ Template:NewRef
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