What am i getting into?

Hi, welcome to the BGDF!

> How to develope a purchasable game correctly?

That's a very broad question and basically what this board is all about!

I think the first step is to create a prototype of the game, and playtest it with some friends. If it seems to work well, and it is fun to play, then take it to the next step.

> Do i need a computer program and what kind?

You probably need some kind of software to create and modify graphics. I recommend Gimp and Inkscape, both of which can be downloaded for free.

> Whats up with the designers showdown?

It's a fun challenge on this website where peopel have to come with an idea for a game (just a basic description, not a whole full fledged prototype) based on specific restrictions, which change every time.

Here are good prototyping tips I've gathered other the years. Many of the building tips are from Print And Play websites like www.printandplay.co.uk.

You can prototype cards by buying thin card sleeves usually meant for collectible card games like Magic, printing your cards on plain printer paper, and slipping them into the sleeve along with a standard poker card for rigidity. Wizards of the Coast make Magic themed, but they are kind of pricey, you should be able to find cheaper sleeves at a gaming or hobby store. The nice thing about this method is that as you find you need to make changes to your cards, it's super easy to simply slip the paper front out of the sleeve, reprint and replace.

For making boards and counters, I recommend, once again, printing on plain paper and pasting to a cut up cereal, or similar box. Another tip, this one from printandplay.co.uk is to buy cheap, self adhesive, floor tile. The nice thing here is that you just need to peel the backing and voila, pre-glued surface ready for pasting. No matter which of these methods you use, remember to stick you sheet of paper onto your backing first, then cut out your board or counters, much easier!

As previously stated, there's really no point in seriously pursuing marketing and distribution goals at this point, just make some placeholder components, don't worry too much about the way it looks (if your game can be ugly yet still fun, then you know you're on to something ^_^) just make what you need to play. Playtesting is not only the next step, but is the most important step IMO. Unless you're Reiner Knizia, much of your game will probably evolve from your playtests, so get crackin' and build the thing!

Once you're ready to spend a little money on some higher quality components for playtesting or to make more prototypes, you can look at sites like www.thegamecrafter.com. This website will allow you to have high quality components without having to order huge quantities.

Oh, and don't forget to let us know how your playtesting is going and don't be shy to post your question or ask for help as you hit hurdles along the way.