# DEVELOPER BLOG

[BUILDING A PROTOTYPE](https://ratloopgamescanada.com/dev-blog/prototype)

Prototyping is incredibly useful when developing a video game. In this Dev Blog article, we share some of our key learnings and why we believe a playable prototype is such an essential first step towards building an awesome game.

[THE IMPORTANCE OF THE WEEKLY PLAYTESTS](https://ratloopgamescanada.com/dev-blog/playtest)

In this Developer Blog article, we talk about our weekly internal playtests and how it positively impacts not only the game but the team behind it.

[WHY IS “GAMEPLAY FIRST” OUR MANTRA?](https://ratloopgamescanada.com/dev-blog/mantra)

In this Developer Blog issue, we discuss why “Gameplay First” is our mantra and how it directly affects our approach to Game Design.

[THE PSYCHOLOGY OF ACHIEVEMENTS](https://ratloopgamescanada.com/dev-blog/achievements)

Achievements are extremely popular in the gaming universe. Let’s have a look under the hood at some of Lemnis Gate’s achievements and pull back the red curtain to reveal their game design motivations:

[THE CREATION OF THE GHOST MODE](https://ratloopgamescanada.com/dev-blog/ghost-mode)

This Dev Blog article discusses the creation of the Ghost Mode mechanic on our upcoming title, Lemnis Gate. In this Turn-Based First-Person Shooter, we prove that death is not the end if you're in a Time Loop.

[IMPLEMENTING A PHOTO MODE WITH UNREAL](https://ratloopgamescanada.com/dev-blog/photo-mode-unreal)

This Dev Blog article discusses the implementation of a Photo Mode in our upcoming title, Lemnis Gate. Using the Unreal Engine, we explore visibility in gaming and the impact of this tool for Community Development.