Ironically, one of the best ways to make a game is to do the opposite; play them! Playing many games, from multiple genres or some old classics can help inject creativity into your projects. This could be through unique gameplay mechanics, captivating storylines, or even just helpful Quality-of-Life features. For example, a game I've been playing recently called Fields of Mistria has some helpful QoL features that I wished similar games, such as Stardew Valley (which I also loved), had. Not only do these features make it more accessible, it also makes it stand out from games within the same genre. Playing other games not only gives you more insight into what makes a game creative, but also some perspective on what players seek in games.

If the game feels too predictable, it’s time to infuse some bold creativity. I’d organize a dynamic brainstorming session with the team, encouraging them to pitch unconventional ideas. Introducing unique mechanics, blending genres, or crafting unexpected storylines can give the game a distinctive edge. The aim? To captivate players by balancing market trends with originality.

Here are steps 1)Read your Top Rated Suggestions/Critics 2)See competitor Games of same genre 3)Use ads strategically to not annoy the users.

If it's at the concept stage - I'd suggest moving away from "Market Trends" and on to making something with broad appeal, that you want to create. Though, if you're set on the "Market Trends" route, then: a) Do deeper research into the market - what things have other game's in your genre not picked up? b) Is there a specific demographic you could target? c) are there mechanics that haven't been used often? d) what about story elements e) make prototypes and test f) back to a) generate more or new ideas. That would be my advice.

In e-sports games, balance is key—you don't need to reinvent the wheel. In games like Dota 2, introducing a new hero with unique mechanics or tweaking the map can make a big impact. For shooters like CS, updating shooting mechanics, adding a competitive map, or refining grenade and reload systems can keep the experience fresh. In strategy games like Starcraft, adjusting unit costs, maps, or timings helps maintain balance. For RPGs like Diablo 3, adding new characters, locations, stories, or weapons can meet audience demands. A great game tells a compelling story while letting players create their own unforgettable experiences.