A prototype provides the basic structure of a full game, however it may not have the fully polished look and feel of a final product. Prototypes are useful as they allow one to rapidly produce a story without the common challenges associated with more serious game development pursuits (gaps in technical expertise, writer’s block, lack of time and resources, etc.). Benefits to rapid prototyping include:

• Produce a workable game without the full commitment of time and resources.
• Ability to gain quick foundational IF authorship experience.
• An opportunity to explore an idea before deciding whether it deserves more of your attention.
• Break through writer’s block and get back to work quicker and with improved confidence.