Production Division Head Kim So-hee: Our biggest challenge was answering, 'Would fans who love these idols actually enjoy the game?' To solve this, we focused on three pillars. First, we chose the match-3 genre for its mass appeal. Second, we put immense effort into capturing the artists’ charm without it feeling uncanny. Finally, we wanted to move beyond simple collection; we wanted to satisfy the core desires of the fandom—customising and showing off—within a digital space. Bringing the 'stan' culture directly into the game is, I believe, the biggest differentiator for SMiniz.

Planning Lead Kim Yong-hwa: In short, we have translated offline fan activities into the digital realm. You can collect real-life based photocards, SD illustration cards, and even cards featuring concert snapshots. These can be decorated using our 'top-loader' customisation feature with stickers and frames. We’ve also implemented the 'polite shot' (a culture of photographing food with characters) and a dedicated 'fan zone' to display your collection. We are even preparing contests where users can show off their decorated cards to each other.

Planning Lead Kim Yong-hwa: Unlike past projects where we built characters from scratch, the biggest difference here was having to authentically interpret real-life artists. Identifying the specific traits fans love was crucial. We spent a significant amount of time researching everything from the angle of their eyebrows and ear shapes to their personalities. We even implemented unique greetings and poses based on an analysis of each artist's personality.

Production Division Head Kim So-hee: Since our target audience is the artist's fandom, it was difficult to communicate using standard 'gamer' language. Not every fan is a hardcore gamer, so we had to design a user journey that felt natural for them. Creating a seamless loop between the 'stan' life and the game itself was quite the struggle.

Production Division Head Kim So-hee: Well, ideally, we hope such things don't happen (laughs). We do have systemic measures in place should any issues arise, but above all, we intend to prioritise the reactions and sentiments of the fans when planning any updates or responses.

Production Division Head Kim So-hee: We already ran a campaign during the SMTOWN concert in Fukuoka. We are constantly looking for opportunities to expand the in-game experience into the real world through concerts and fan meetings.

Planning Lead Kim Yong-hwa: At launch, we will feature six groups: NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT WISH, WayV, aespa, and RIIZE, with more to be added via updates. As for music, the background track matches the group the user has selected. Initially, we thought about making music a collectible item too, but we realised that listening to your favourite singer's music while playing felt quite good, so we decided to provide it as a default. You can change your settings to listen to specific tracks if you prefer.

Planning Lead Kim Yong-hwa: While we maintain the core structure of a match-3, we’ve focused on a fast tempo and snappy hit-feedback, much like the current short-form video trend. Also, each artist has a 'key block skill'; when you pop blocks of a specific colour, the artist uses their skill to help clear the puzzle. It gives the feeling that you are playing the game alongside your favourite singer.

PD Park Il-woong: We prioritised the influx of fans over general gamers. We’ve lowered the barrier to entry to ensure fans don't feel the frustration often found in standard puzzle games. We provide plenty of items to help clear stages and have adjusted the difficulty through the aforementioned artist skill system. We are focusing on a balance that emphasises a fun, stress-free experience rather than a gruelling challenge.

Planning Lead Kim Yong-hwa: It is divided into items that assist with puzzle gameplay and items exclusively for decoration; we made sure these two elements don't conflict. You can enjoy the game sufficiently using resources earned through gameplay, while elements specialised for customisation—such as stickers, special effect frames, and 'polite shot' templates—can be purchased with separate currency.