Announcing and Canceling “Magic School”: A Look at Dinosaur Polo Club’s Transparent Decision

In late July, Mini Motorways and Mini Metro developer Dinosaur Polo Club made a bold move by announcing a new game on its website and social media, only to follow up with news of its cancellation.

Magic School, a project in development for years, deviated significantly from the studio’s usual minimalist style seen in their first two games. Described as a “maximalist simulation game” by co-founder Robert Curry, Magic School aimed to simulate the complexities of a magical boarding school, with intricate systems for classes, housing, meals, and daily living over multiple years.

Dinosaur Polo Club’s decision to showcase Magic School, despite its cancellation, was driven by a desire to highlight the hard work of the team and allow members to feature their contributions in their portfolios. This move was a departure from the usual secrecy surrounding canceled projects, showcasing the studio’s commitment to its team.

Seeking a New Direction

When asked about the origins of Magic School, Robert Curry explained that the idea emerged during discussions while working on Mini Motorways. Inspired by fantasy literature like Terry Pratchett’s Discworld and Patrick Rothfuss’ “In the Name of the Wind,” the team delved into the concept of a magical school while exploring ideas for a new type of game beyond their previous titles.

Although Magic School was never fully realized, the team spoke candidly about the challenges they faced during development, highlighting issues with scope, vision, and team fatigue. The decision to cancel the project came after months of introspection and discussions that ultimately led to a realization that the game was not aligning with their goals.

The Importance of Transparency

One aspect that stood out in Dinosaur Polo Club’s approach was their emphasis on transparency and openness about the project. By allowing the team to share their work and experiences, the studio aimed to provide valuable insights into the game development process and offer a glimpse into the challenges faced by developers.

Members of the team echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their work and receive feedback from the community. By sharing the inner workings of the canceled project, the team hoped to highlight their dedication and passion for game development.

Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

Reflecting on the experience with Magic School, the team identified key takeaways that will inform their future projects. From the difficulty of defining core gameplay loops to the importance of setting clear restrictions early on, the team acknowledged the valuable lessons learned during the development process.

Despite the project’s cancellation, the team expressed pride in their collaborative approach, where everyone was welcomed to contribute ideas and share their vision for the game. This inclusive and passionate work environment was a standout feature of the project, showcasing the team’s commitment to creating meaningful and engaging experiences.