GAMmallit

GAMmallit is a term in game design describing a family of modular templates used to build tabletop and digital games. Each GAMmalli provides a reusable framework with a setting hook, a core mechanic, character options, a conflict structure, and progression rules, all designed to be adapted to different themes and scales. The term blends GAM, often read as Generic Adventure Module, with mallit, the Finnish word for templates, reflecting Nordic design roots.

The concept emerged in Nordic indie circles during the 2010s and spread through game jams, schools, and small studios. Designers use GAMmallit to bootstrap prototypes quickly while preserving a coherent design language across projects.

A typical GAMmalli includes a concise thematic description, a compact ruleset or mechanic, archetypal characters or options, a pattern for encounters or conflicts, pacing and progression guidance, and notes on modular compatibility. Many templates also provide ready-to-run encounter seeds and example playtests.

GAMmallit cover several lines such as Combat, Exploration, Investigation, and Social/Negotiation, with genre variants for fantasy, sci‑fi, or mystery settings. They are valued for speeding up prototyping, teaching modular design, and supporting collaboration, though critics warn against overreliance that may curb creativity.