Game Dev Tycoon Year by Year Progression Guide
Key milestones and events throughout your Game Dev Tycoon journey
When Do New Platforms Come Out?
Find office unlock requirements and timing, the full console release schedule in-game, and learn when the mBox comes out. Use our platform release dates guide to track year 3, year 5, and year 10 milestones. Know exactly when to move to the second office and follow the full progression timeline from start to finish.
You begin in your garage with $70K. Make small games to build experience.
The PC is your starting platform. No license fee required.
Next Step
Choose the Right Platform
Use the platform recommender to find the best platform for your current era.
First affordable console. Good for Casual and Action games.
By year 2, try to make a game that scores 7+ to build fans.
The right topic-genre combination is crucial for success.
You should have close to 1 million by now for your first office.
With 1 million cash, you can move to your first office and hire staff.
Major console with large audience. Great for Action games.
Sequels to successful games perform better. Build franchises.
16-bit era begins. Great graphics capabilities.
Building custom game engines improves game quality significantly.
3D graphics become essential for high-scoring games.
Revolutionary 3D console. The future of gaming.
Next Step
Prioritize Your Research
Plan which technologies to unlock next based on your current game year.
Advanced console with online capabilities.
By now you should be ready to expand to a larger office.
Best-selling console ever. Massive audience.
New competitor in the console market.
Large team + Custom Engine + Proper marketing = AAA success.
Strong online features and achievement system.
HD gaming arrives. High development costs.
Hardware lab allows you to design your own gaming console.
Next Step
Track Your Milestones
Add key milestones to your checklist and track your progress through the game.