This game simulates the process Gulfstream follows to design, build, test, and deliver an aircraft. Players begin by choosing whether to design an entirely new aircraft or focus on selling an existing model. From there, they navigate through various departments represented on the board, negotiating sales agreements for components, manufacturing the aircraft, conducting tests, and demonstrating their ability to support and service the final product. The goal is to deliver an exceptional aircraft to a satisfied customer while maximizing earnings by strategically managing revenue streams, costs, and overall profitability throughout the process.
The Game of Life served as our primary inspiration for this project, as it mirrors the choices and consequences inherent in building an aircraft and running a business.
Of all the projects I’ve worked on, this was one of my favorites. Our team included a lead instructional designer, project manager, me, two GP Strategies interactive designers, and two design contractors. While there were different ways we could have structured the team, it quickly became clear that a roundtable approach—where everyone contributed, tested, and iterated—worked best for both the game and the team.
Beyond the daily work of developing the game, a key part of our process was playing it every day and making improvements. We continually asked ourselves: What’s working? What’s not? Most importantly, does this actually feel and play like a board game?
