some tips:
- don't start with great shaders and graphics.
- you can use placeholder models(ie boxes) to simulate the game. these placeholders can be replaced later with real models and textures.
- first focus on the gameplay, it is more important than great graphics.
- maybe you can learn from liam's game gravix: it is a simple game, but it is getting very far.
good luck, and if you have something to show, we'll like to see it.
-Start with a small level with great shaders and grafics.
You´ll get an instant impression on how your game will look like. It will help you to develop a style.
-Don´t use placeholders, because you´ll struggle when it comes
to polycount & texture sizes. On top of that, you´ll have to do 50% of the level design twice. Unnecessary additional work, imo.
-First focus on grafics, because actually you want to attract people at the very first beginning to make them curious.
Well said in another thread: They are coming for eye candy, they are staying for content.
My project works this way and it evolves better than I´ve thought at beginning.
But (!!) in the end you´ll to extermine your workflow by yourself. Because it will differ and depends on the project, your skills and your budget (time & money).
