- The Green Book game is centered around nurturing and discovering new plants.
- It is in development as a cross-platform title for PC, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
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While the games industry has a spotlight on big-name studios, some of the most exciting games come from independent developers. These developers work tirelessly to create unique gaming experiences.
In this interview, we dive into The Green Book, the latest project by game developer and Tapteek founder, Eugene Lazebny.
PocketGamer.biz: Tell us a little about your background in the gaming industry.
Eugene Lazebny: With 18 years of experience as a product designer, I have worked on various apps for startups, companies, and banks, receiving multiple awards. My journey into game development began seven years ago with our first game, Fobia, and has since evolved into a passion for creating games.
At Tapteek, we collaborated with different publishers to develop mobile games, with Among Water being our most recent project that focused on relaxation mechanics like a meditation system.
What inspired The Green Book, and how long have you been working on it?
“About half a year ago, I felt compelled to bring The Green Book to life after coming across the original sketches.”
Eugene Lazebny
The idea for The Green Book originated from my wife’s passion for caring for plants, which she explored through sketches and stories. I rediscovered these sketches and embarked on developing the game about six months ago, continuing the project solo in my spare time.
What are the challenges and rewards of being an independent developer?
“Being a small team is challenging, but the flexibility and speed of decision-making are advantages.”
Eugene Lazebny
As a small team, finances and multitasking present significant obstacles. However, the flexibility and quick decision-making of small companies offer advantages in terms of speed and adaptability.
How are you addressing cross-platform development challenges for The Green Book?
Designing for multiple platforms requires thoughtful consideration of control logic and window layouts to ensure optimal user experience across devices. Adapting controls for various input methods like mouse, keyboard, gamepad, and touch screen adds complexity but is essential for a seamless gameplay experience.
What is the current status of development, and do you have a target launch date?
“I anticipate a potential release date around the end of August 2025.”
Eugene Lazebny
The Green Book is in early development, with plans in place for characters, stories, and plant designs. While aiming for a late August 2025 release, adjustments may be necessary to ensure a polished final product.
Are you an indie developer?
Pocket Gamer Connects is returning to Helsinki this October 1st & 2nd to showcase indie talent through the Big Indie Zone and the Very Big Indie Pitch event. Join us for a memorable experience and gain exposure for your games!