Buzz
Creating a video game is no simple task, but if you have an exciting idea you’re passionate about bringing to life, now is the perfect time to start. With the expanding trend of independent development, designing games has become more accessible and less costly. Use the guidance in this article to begin crafting your dream game and share it with the world.
Steps
Laying the Foundation
Choose a genre. While every successful game has its unique features, most fall into a specific genre. Decide on the type of game you want to create and explore others in the same category. Some popular genres include:
- Arcade games
- Shooters
- Puzzle games
- Action games
- Racing games
- Adventure games
- Endless runners
- Role-playing games
- First-person shooters
- Third-person shooters
- Japanese-style RPGs
- Character-driven RPGs
- Tower defense
- Horror games
- Fighting games
- Comedy games
- Survival games
Choose a platform. The platform you select for game development significantly impacts the process. It determines the control scheme; smartphone games often use touch and tilt controls, PC games rely on keyboards and mice, while consoles use controllers. However, most PC games on the market also support controllers.
- While there are exceptions to these rules, selecting a specific control method simplifies game design.
- If you aim to design games for the iPhone, you’ll need to upload your game to the Apple Store using a Mac. An exception is the Godot Engine, which allows iPhone game development on Linux—useful if you don’t own a Mac.
Create a preliminary design document. This should be concise, ideally fitting on a single page, but it will serve as the backbone of your game. It outlines the core ideas and helps determine if your design is feasible.
Define core values. These are the driving forces behind your game. Simple statements that capture the essence of the game. Regularly revisit these values to ensure your game stays aligned with its fundamental goals. Examples include:
- This game simulates a space station.
- This game provides a realistic driving experience.
- This game tests the player’s reflexes.
List the features. This is what sets your game apart from others in the same genre. Start by brainstorming ideas, then turn them into actionable statements. Aim for 5-15 features. For example:
- Idea: Space station structure.
- Feature: Build and manage a space station.
- Idea: Asteroid damage.
- Feature: Survive in a hazardous environment with asteroids, solar radiation, and comets.
- Listing features ensures each one is fully integrated into the design document. Writing them down keeps you focused and prevents scope creep.
- Review the features until you’re satisfied they’re fully realized in your game.
Take a break. Put the preliminary design document in a drawer and avoid thinking about it for a week or two. Revisit it with fresh eyes to determine if the project is worth pursuing or if the draft needs revisions.
Write the Design Document
Provide detailed information. The design document is the lifeblood of your game. It contains in-depth descriptions of actions, storylines, settings, visuals, and other game elements. The format is less important than the content.
- The design document is crucial when managing a team of programmers and artists. Ensure it’s written for them, not the players. Avoid ambiguity; clearly explain how each in-game action should be implemented.
- Not every game has a design document, and no two documents are alike. Use these steps as a guide but feel free to adapt the document to your game’s needs.
Create a table of contents. Every aspect of the game should be covered in the table of contents. The only element not included is the story unless it directly ties into gameplay actions.
- Write the table of contents as if you’re creating a player’s guide. Start with broad sections like character creation, combat, and the main interface, then add subsections for each.
- Treat the table of contents as the game’s outline. You’ll expand on each section with detailed information.
Detail each section. After outlining the table of contents, flesh out the actions. Take time to thoroughly review each detail to avoid confusion during programming. Every action must be clearly explained to prevent issues during implementation.
Seek feedback from others or your support team. Depending on your approach, game design often requires collaboration. Input from others can help you focus on the game and identify missing elements.
- Ensure reviewers know you intend to release the game. They may not provide detailed feedback if they think it’s just an idea.
- If consulting family, such as parents, remember their feedback may be less objective than that of regular game reviewers. You can still ask for their input, but they shouldn’t be your only source of feedback.
Start Programming
Choose a development program. This is the foundational software, as there are numerous development tools that simplify game design. Using such programs saves time and reduces complexity compared to figuring things out on your own. You’ll find many programs tailored for independent developers.
- These programs often make it easy to adjust graphics, sound, and AI.
- Each program has its strengths and weaknesses. Some are better suited for 2D graphics, while others are designed for 3D. Some require programming knowledge, though there are tools that don’t. Many programs come with licensing fees, especially for commercial use. Popular independent development programs include:
- Unity – A versatile and user-friendly 3D program that also supports 2D game development.
- Unreal Engine – A flexible tool for various users, used in many AAA games. It features Visual Scripting, known as Blueprints.
- Godot Engine – A free, open-source program gaining popularity. Contributors regularly add new features, and it supports Visual Scripting and multiple programming languages for both 2D and 3D games.
- GameMaker: Studio – One of the most popular tools for creating 2D games.
- RPG Maker Series – A visual scripting tool for traditional Japanese-style 2D RPGs.
- Source – A widely-used 3D program that is continuously updated.
- Project Spark – A 3D program optimized for casual users.
Learn the chosen program or find someone who knows it. Depending on the program, you may need some programming knowledge. Even the most basic tools require time to master. If programming is beyond your skills, consider learning or hiring help.
- This is the first step in building your team. If you lack programming skills, your first hire should be a programmer. Graphics and sound can come later; you need a functional prototype to move forward.
- Connect with the indie developer community. Many people join projects for various reasons. This is where your game design document proves its worth, keeping you focused on your original vision.
Create a prototype. Once comfortable with your chosen program, develop a prototype. This is a basic test of the game’s core functionality. Graphics and sound aren’t necessary; use simple placeholders like cubes or basic shapes and a small test area.
- Test and refine the prototype repeatedly to ensure the game is engaging. Note any flaws or inefficiencies and adjust accordingly. If the prototype isn’t fun, the final game likely won’t be either.
- Some features may seem simple or feasible but fail during development. Expect the prototype to evolve as you identify what works and what doesn’t.
Refine the controls. The most basic function of a game is player interaction through input controls. Use the prototype to ensure all controls are polished.
- Poorly implemented controls frustrate players, while perfectly executed controls enhance the player’s experience.
Resource Creation
Assess project requirements. The graphic demands vary significantly based on the project's scale. Simple games may only require basic shapes and colors, while more complex games necessitate a team of artists and sound designers. Set realistic goals for game resources and hire accordingly.
- Most indie games are developed by small teams, often just one person. If you're working solo, expect longer development times, especially if you plan to create all resources yourself.
- Numerous free resources are available in online development communities. Always ensure that what you use doesn't infringe on others' copyrights.
Draft game graphics. To visualize the game's graphics, integrate them into a test run and expand it into a full game.
- Various styles can be employed. Pixel graphics (retro style) are popular among indie developers due to their lower time and cost requirements while still producing visually appealing games.
- With more time and manpower, consider 3D graphics. Basic 3D modeling can be done solo, but intricate details require more time and effort. Complex 3D models often need additional detailing.
Design the game world or structure. After finalizing the graphics, construct the game's framework. Depending on the game's style, you may need to create multiple levels or play areas. For puzzle games, design various puzzle patterns.
Develop graphic resources. Depending on the graphic style, use different programs to create these resources. Popular programs include:
- Blender – A leading open-source program for 3D modeling, with numerous online tutorials to help you get started quickly.
- Photoshop – Essential for texture creation and most 2D graphics. However, it's a paid option; if budget is a concern, try GIMP, a free open-source alternative with similar functionalities.
- Paint.net – A free open-source alternative to Paint Shop Pro, ideal for easy 2D graphic creation, especially for 2D pixel graphics.
- Adobe Illustrator – Useful for vector graphics, though it's a paid option. For a budget-friendly alternative, consider Inkscape, a free open-source program.
Record sound resources. Sound design plays a crucial role in immersing players into the game. Whether you use sound effects, voiceovers, or music, and how you implement them, significantly impacts how players connect with the game.
- You can find powerful and free sound recordings, along with sound creation software, online. Consider using these resources if you're on a tight budget or working independently.
- Create sound effects using everyday household items.
Combine elements
Spend time playing the game. As you build each aspect of the game, playtest it to ensure it feels enjoyable and engaging. If any area or idea seems lacking or poorly implemented, refine or remove it. Once all levels, puzzles, or play areas are complete, playtest the entire game to ensure a fun and cohesive experience from start to finish.
Focus on the core value. Throughout development, continuously check if the game maintains its core value. Stick to your feature list and avoid getting bogged down by unnecessary additional details.
Continuously refine. Regularly review the graphics, sound, and design to polish rough edges and highlight the game's unique style. The speed of refinement will depend largely on the graphic style you've chosen.
Game Testing
Identify bugs. Once your game runs smoothly from start to finish, it's time to start finding ways to 'break' it. Detecting and fixing bugs is essential to ensure a positive experience for players.
Perform unconventional actions. Test every possible interaction a player might attempt. Ensure players cannot easily exploit or bypass the game's rules.
- Bug testing can be time-consuming, sometimes taking as long as the game's development. Having a team to help test can significantly increase the number of bugs found and fixed.
Prioritize bug fixes. If you discover multiple bugs but have limited time to fix them, address the most critical ones first. For example, if a bug allows players to gain infinite points in a scoring game, ensure it is resolved immediately.
Observe others playing. Invite friends to test your game and watch how they approach challenges and interact with the game world. They might attempt actions you never anticipated.
Game Release
Check the programming tool's regulations for releasing converted programs. Each tool supports specific platforms, and some require different licenses for each. For example, with Game Studio, you can release on Windows and Mac OS X with the standard version, but you need to upgrade to the professional version and pay additional fees for mobile releases.
Choose a distribution service. Some indie developers promote their games on their websites, but this can be costly, and some servers may not handle the necessary traffic for a successful game. Popular distribution channels for indie games on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux include:
- Steam
- Desura
- Humble Store
- GOG
- Mobile games must be released through their respective app stores (e.g., Apple App Store, Google Play Store). The same applies to gaming consoles (Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, etc.).
- Each service charges different fees based on game revenue. Research to find the best fit for you. Most services have customer support channels with representatives who can directly assist developers.
Support the game. After release, allocate resources to fix bugs and promote content. In the digital distribution era, games are updated faster than ever. Bugs may emerge when a large number of players join simultaneously. Address issues as quickly as possible.
Advice
- Don’t expect to get rich overnight. Remember that passion for game design comes first, and making money is secondary.
- Some may doubt your abilities, but if you stay committed, results will soon become evident.
- Always consider your audience. Is the game for children, teens, or adults? This will guide your advertising strategy. For example, games for kids should be promoted on children’s channels rather than late-night shows or newspapers.
- Start with simple game designs. Even if earning money is your goal, focus on creating games you love. You’ll know when it’s time to monetize.
- There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for game creation. Treat this guide as a general overview and follow the process that works best for you.
Warnings
- Spend time researching to determine if game design is right for you!
- Designing games isn’t as fun as playing them. Many young gamers want to design games because they enjoy playing them. However, playing and creating games are entirely different. You’ll play the same game repeatedly, even for years. Some gamers (the patient ones) may handle this well, but others may quit after a few months out of boredom.
- Avoid an AO rating from the ESRB, as retailers and online stores may refuse to sell your game. Self-rating isn’t easy, but you can compare your game to others that received an AO rating.
- You may face challenges along the way, but don’t get discouraged. Designing a great game takes time, but the results are worth the effort.
