Persistence turns a toy into a habit. It also turns debugging into nightmares if you bolt on databases before you understand your threat model. For AI-assisted prototypes, bias toward boring technology until players ask for more.
Local-first saves
localStorage or IndexedDB fits single-player progression: settings, unlocked levels, best times. Version your save schema (save.v3) so migrations do not brick testers.
Pitfalls: quota limits, private browsing wipes, and no sync across devices—communicate that in UI.
Anonymous leaderboards
Post scores with { score, name?, seed? } to a tiny serverless endpoint. Rate-limit by IP and cap name length. Expect cheating; decide if you care for v1.
| Approach | Effort | Integrity |
|---|---|---|
| Client-only high score | Trivial | None |
| Signed payloads | Medium | Better |
| Server-simulated runs | High | Strong |
Privacy and compliance
If you store emails or IDs, publish a short privacy note: what you collect, retention, delete path. Kids’ games add extra obligations—know your audience.
FAQ
Do I need Redis day one? No. A single table or KV with TTL often suffices for jam traffic.
Can AI write my backend? Yes—with tests. Ask for idempotent handlers and structured logs.
Where to showcase? List on vibe-coded games once your save flow is stable.
Next steps
- Read AI tools to pick assistants for API code.
- Meet builders on developer profiles.
YGG Play helps indies ship trustworthy web games.
