The biggest mistake new players make in 1.7.6 is selecting a genre/topic combo based on personal taste. The game runs on a hidden algorithm based on historical trends.
In version 1.7.6, the trend system is more aggressive than in previous patches. You must check the "Trends" tab before every single game development. Releasing a "High Fantasy" RPG while the trend is "Crime" will cut your potential sales by 40%.
Pro Tip for 1.7.6: During the first 5 years, ignore your gut feeling. Look at the top 10 selling games and clone their genre/topic combos. Innovation comes later.
| Order | Research | Why | |-------|----------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1 | Sound | Big review boost, cheap to implement. | | 2 | Action genre | Best selling genre from year 5 onward. | | 3 | 3D graphics | Required for high scores after year 4. | | 4 | Sequel engine | Cuts dev time for sequels by 35%. | | 5 | MMO | Late-game cash cow (but huge dev time). | | 6 | Voice / Facial | Small boost – only if competing for 9+ scores. | Game Dev Tycoon 1.7.6 Guide
Skip: “Story” (adds little), “Game Editor” (not needed until very late).
Avoid: Action + Sports early – low synergy and hard to score high.
In previous versions, you could just hire the cheapest guy. Not anymore. The biggest mistake new players make in 1
1.7.6 introduces "Burnout."
Hiring Priority:
Do not make an "Action" game first. The algorithm in 1.7.6 favors High Tech and Fantasy for small audiences early on. Avoid : Action + Sports early – low
In config.ini (in game folder), set:
Debug=1
Then in game press F7 – adds 10M cash, unlocks all research.
Badges/achievements disabled while active.
In 1.7.6, players often hit a wall where every game scores between 6 and 7 (Medium). This is a death spiral.
How to break 8/10 consistently: