A year ago, I competed, and ultimately enrolled, in Canada’s first ever Toy Invention course. The goal was to enhance my invention skills.

After having worked as a game designer and producer for over 15 years, I saw this as an opportunity to broaden my skills sets. I see the lines blurring more and more between digital and physical play and I wanted to learn more about the physical aspects of it all.

A visit to a modern theme park shows how the lines are blurring. Take Disney World as an example of how they have incorporated interactivity into their newer experiences.

Games have always been created with play patterns in mind. Making a digital character or toy that is fun to play is always the first step to making a great game.

Toys are becoming more sophisticated, with digital extensions and integrations. One doesn’t have to look very far to see the overlaps. In my house, Furby and Hatchimals play alongside more traditional toys and games.

The class served me well and helped me to learn the importance of failing fast, honing in on play patterns, learning about market viability, taking a deep dive into the customers (kids) and seeing them actually play with our creations (the most humbling of experiences).

I am happy to report that my invention partner and I were able to sell our first concept to a major toy company!

It will likely be a year until we see it in the hands of children playing, but I am happy to have my first success as a toy inventor and I look forward to the process of creating other ideas and inventions in the weeks and months to come for both the physical and digital space! And for kids both young and old!