I developed my very first game after reading "Riddle Master" by Patricia McKillip.

When a sculptor creates a sculpture, a writer writes a novel, or a painter paints a motif on a canvas, he needs talent and expertise. But to be successful in his endeavor, he also needs to have the passionate feeling that he wants, at all costs, to create a work of art which, in his head, constantly demands to be accomplished. The same also applies to developing board games or card games.

Until 1986, developing games was a mere hobby for me. Back then, I didn't know that game designers existed, because the designers' names didn't appear on the boxes.

If during creative processes the desire for money and fame comes before passion and joy, the chances for a big hit decrease considerably, at least in my experience.

I developed my very first game after reading "Riddle Master" by Patricia McKillip.

I'd advise all aspiring game designers not to aim for money when developing a game, because unfortunately it is very rare for game designers to be able to earn a living by developing analog games.

It is always a most delightful moment for me when people contact me via mail or approach me at game fairs and thank me for the many enjoyable hours I have brought them with my games.