Playing computer games and creating them are two different things. Most gamers have no idea how much creativity and work it takes. Creating a game is a time-consuming process, which consists of several stages. Programming a video game is not easy. However, if you have a million-dollar idea, it’s best to start ASAP!
We asked programming experts from AssignmentCore (a coding assignment service) to guide you through the major milestones in making a video game.
Tips and Tricks to Make a Video Game from Scratch
There are more people playing video games than ever. This means that there are many opportunities for you to break through and make a great game. But how to do that? The video game-making process is very difficult. Still, you can make the game yourself with a little help.
Set a goal
The goal is where every idea starts. You have to immediately decide what you want to get in the end. In order to succeed, it is no longer possible to make something random.
Write the code
Once the goal is set, it is necessary to select the tools to achieve it. You need to write programming code. First, you need to choose the programming language that suits you best. After that, the most difficult work is to write program code capable of operating with two-dimensional or three-dimensional objects in space, linking sounds, and images.
Find good hardware and software
You will also need some very powerful and quite specialized programs to create games. You should note that the software you need has to include 3D modeling programs, image editors, text editors, compilers, etc.
Try creating games software for beginners. There are some great programs that beginners can use to make simple games. Probably the most famous of them are Game Maker and RPG Maker. Atmosphir and Games Factory are great too. These tools are surprisingly well-suited for learning the basic skills you need.
Write down everything to the smallest detail
The development plan is the backbone of your game. It becomes especially important when you have a team under your leadership. Be precise, specific, and clear in the wording describing certain aspects of the game.
Choose a genre
Yes, all successful games are unique. However, they can be classified as belonging to one genre or another. Decide on a genre first! And the genres are as follows:
- Arcade
- Shooter
- Puzzle
- Race
- Endless run
- First-person shooter
- Manga
- Horror
- Fighting
- Comedy
- Survival
Make a good design for the game
Design is very important. So, it’s best to deal with these things before starting to make the game. How will players progress through the game? How will players interact with the world around them? How will you train the players? What audio and musical accompaniment will you use? All these things are very important.
Customize the mechanics
Perhaps the most important part of any game is mechanics. If you read the comments and reviews of the games written by teenagers, you will notice that they evaluate the game mainly according to the graphics. They don’t notice that a beautiful picture without well-developed mechanics is quickly losing popularity. True connoisseurs of good games will always be faithful to the exciting gameplay rather than the stunning picture. Look at MineCraft — this game is clearly not distinguished by intricate graphics but gives the player endless possibilities.
Create different content
You will also need to start creating content in the game. This means modeling characters, creating game sprites, the surrounding world, all objects the player can interact with, etc. It usually takes excellent skills in 3D modeling and visual arts programs to complete this task.
Test it before releasing
Once you’ve finished creating your game, you’re not actually finished yet. You will need to test everything. Everything! You will need to go through every possible scenario in your game to make sure there are no errors anywhere. It takes a lot of time and human resources. Set aside enough time in your schedule for testing!
Advertise the game
When the release date approaches, it’s time to draw the attention of the players to the game. Screenshots and gameplay recordings published on popular forums about computer games will do just fine. You can even contact the owners of blogs dedicated to the gaming industry and order a review of your game.
Wait for the real player’s assessment
If you think that making and selling a game is the final step, then you are wrong. Gamers may notice very serious errors that the developers will have to fix. Large companies even have entire technical support departments dealing with such issues. Even though beta testers have already thoroughly checked everything, players may find small or large mistakes. In this case, it is necessary to correct errors in the finished game.
Keep learning
If you ever need help, ask for it. There are millions of people in the world who can help you create a game. So, never be afraid to ask and look for them.
To Wrap Up
Learning programming is not easy and requires a certain mindset. But when it starts to work out, you experience great pleasure from the result. Don’t give up. Systematically devote at least a little time to the development and study of the engine every day. And remember, there is always room to grow.
This is the general editors account for Old School Gamer Magazine. Press releases and other general information sent to Old School Gamer are often posted here.
