Game designer Hazel Reynolds on feedback being the best part

March 10, 2026 - 09:54

For Hazel Reynolds, a seasoned game designer, the most exhilarating part of the creative process isn't the initial spark of an idea, but what comes after sharing it. Reynolds openly acknowledges that having a flood of concepts is part of the job, but emphasizes that "not all of them are good." This, she reveals, is precisely why feedback is indispensable.

She describes a studio culture where constructive critique is not a hurdle, but the essential mechanism for refining raw ideas into polished, engaging experiences. This collaborative spirit extends to how her team connects with the core of gameplay: by actively playing together. Reynolds institutes scheduled "play days" where the team steps away from their desks to experience their creations and other games, fostering a shared vocabulary and direct understanding of player engagement.

Beyond the office, Reynolds finds inspiration in intentional disconnection. She advocates for creating phone-free memories in the real world, noting that these moments of uninterrupted presence often subconsciously fuel the design of more compelling and immersive digital worlds. For her, the cycle is clear: live fully, create freely, and always listen—because the best games are forged through dialogue.