A video game is a huge undertaking, but the end result may be the most exciting coding project you've ever completed.Don't assume that starting from scratch is the best option because you will learn most from the tools that fit your level of programming knowledge.You can start to figure out a programming language, Integrated Development Environment, and/or game-making software within fifteen minutes of opening it.
Step 1: There are game engines.
Most video games are made using a specialized engine that allows you to script events, characters, and so forth without having to code each one from scratch.Most independent developers use an existing engine when creating a full game engine from scratch.Depending on how comfortable you are with programming and how much time you want to spend on the little details, you only need to follow one of the following steps.
Step 2: Simple game-making software can be used.
If you're interested in the coding aspects of game-making, these tools may not be for you.A simple dive-right-in approach could teach you a lot about your game, and allow you to modify the higher-level concept before moving on to a larger prototype.For mobile games, you can try the MIT App Inventor or Game Salad.Visionaire is an introductory programming tool for adventure games.Try the free version of GameMaker if you want a drag-and-drop program with the option to coding as well.
Step 3: Try to use more professional development interface.
It's a great option for getting your hands dirty, getting game- coding experience without having to start from scratch.There are many professional independent game developers at this level.There are many engines andIDEs available, but the following are free and easy to learn.
Step 4: You can build your own engine with a tool.
If you already know how to program and want to build your own engine, here are a few places to start.If this is your first attempt, you'll need to learn how to make an engine.This is a good place to start.Java is easy to learn.You will need a Java Development Kit, Eclipse or another Integrated Development Environment.If you don't know how to start.If you already know a programming language like C or Python, you should look for an instrument for that language.The ability to easily work on graphics, audio, and other code in the same project should be included.
Step 5: Make your own engine.
If you choose one of the advanced tools in the previous step, you will most likely need to find a help forum or an experienced game developer for advice specific to your language.A client-side server, which interprets user input and processes the result, is one of the basic components you'll need to build early on.Make the input system respond correctly.If you're stuck, try researching action listeners.They respond to the user's actions with artificial intelligence.For a simpler project, just have the characters move.Send instructions to the graphics card for the ability to render graphics.A game loop that runs constantly.This should take user input, process it,process other game logic, calculate what needs to be drawn, and send the information to the graphics card.If your system can handle it, you should run it at least 30 times per second.
Step 6: First you have to nail down your idea.
It's a good idea to spend a lot of time figuring out what your game is.What genre is it?Is it 2D or 3D?Does the player progress in the game by solving puzzles, following the story, fighting enemies, and exploring?You will save time if you answer more questions and give more details.The change can take a long time if you decide to make it after you've started coding.Pare this down to a simpler idea.A small prototype that explores how your game works and gives a few levels to play is an excellent start.Once it is finished, you can use it as a foundation to expand into a full game or use what you learned to create a new project.
Step 7: You can work on the steps in any order.
There are weeks or months of rewarding work ahead of you.While a team of people will generally divide the tasks below and work on them simultaneously, an individual will have to decide which task is easiest to start with or most important at each stage.Start on the task that appeals to you most after reading through the steps.
Step 8: Art assets can be created.
Unless you're making at text base game, you will need 2D images and 3D models.If you want to publish your game, you should delay the music and sound effects until later in the process.Simple icons, user interface, and fonts are the lowest priority when your game is young, but a little effort here can greatly improve the player experience.There are lots of places to find art assets.There is a list at makeschool.com.An artist will make a difference.If you can't afford to, gather the assets yourself and show the result to artistic friends, or post it to game development or art forums online for advice.
Step 9: Work on a story or design.
A story-based game may need to include branching dialogue trees, which will be written as planning documents outside of the game code.A game without a traditional story should have a sense of progression.A puzzle game might add more features as it ramps up the complexity and difficulty of the puzzles, while a platforming game could involve a series of movement and weapon upgrades.
Step 10: Work on level designs.
Start by a small level or area.Focus on constructing the path the player takes through the level, then add side paths, more detailed graphics, and tweaking the difficulty by adjusting platform heights or moving enemies around.Light sources and item drops can be used to guide the player.Use shadows to discourage players from entering dead-ends or awkward paths, and use enemies for both purposes, depending on how the game teaches you to avoid enemies.A well-designed area makes the player feel like he is making his own decisions or exploring, but guides him along the most straightforward route using subtle clues.
Step 11: Make the graphics better.
It's not necessary if you're using simple game-making software.If you are willing to dive into the deeper end of graphics systems, you can begin by creating particle effects or removing unneeded tasks from your game.Because graphics are almost always the choke point that determines processing speed, even a 2D game usually goes through significant optimization tweaks and rewrites in order to minimize the burden on the graphics card and processor.
Step 12: Receive feedback from playtesters.
Once you have a prototype of the game, have your friends play it and give feedback.Find out what people think is fun and what they don't like.When the game is more polished, feedback from strangers or acquaintances can be an excellent source of honest advice as they are less invested in your success or encouraging you.Players aren't trained to give feedback from a developer's point of view.If players dislike an aspect of the game, there's usually something about it that could be improved.To find the features that bother them, ask them very specific questions.