More people are playing games across the globe than ever before. This is especially good for gamers who want to create new games and produce new trends in the gaming market. However, the process of building a smash-hit game can be a challenge.
Though big-name game creators have millions of dollars to create, that doesn’t mean you can’t come up with your own game for a fraction of the cost. Forget mainstream consciousness, it’s time to reinvent.
Have no fear: a guide on how to build your own video game is here. You can absolutely create a stellar game with some self-confidence, outside help, and inventive thinking.
We’ve researched all the basics for you and have a compiled a list of steps you need to take on your path to becoming a gaming king.
1. Find your Concept
Before you map out your plan and build your own video game, it’s important to have spent ample time visualizing your game and the details therein. You need to have a vision board for your game. You need to know what you want it to look and sound like.
It’s easy to begin second-guessing your ideas and to continually go back and start over. However, do your best to plow ahead. Make sure you know your limitations and capabilities, and then press forward.
You’re not going to shoot out of the gate with a game that is the equivalent of some of the immersive 3D gaming hits. Instead, take the time to sort out the beginnings of your game and even write down the projection you’d like the game to lead.
Knowing your budget and what’s practical can also lead you to the correct software.
2. Choose the Right Software When You Build Your Own Video Game
If you’ve got a lot of money to work with your new game, that’s great. If you’re just a normal gaming muggle trying to build your own video game, you probably don’t have the funds to license a true game engine. The good news is, that’s okay.
Start with the proper game-making software that is both in your budget and available to you. There are many free options to choose from, or you can go with a premium option. Each has a different set of tools and merits for those want to build a new game.
If you want to create something a little more bare bones, your path will be easier. However, a thrilling action game will need higher-end software. Do you want to build your own video game that has great animation like MGH?
Consider looking at all of the tutorials, read reviews, and investigate the experience of other users.
3. Character Builder
Next, you need to get down to the core and soul of your video game. You need to start building a cast of characters that are interesting, engaging, and fun to play with. You also need to begin considering your interactive environment that the characters can live in.
Each of your characters and environment are going to be designed for a specific level, purpose, and reason. Each character should be vastly different from one another. Through characters, you are giving the humans behind the control the option to self-identify through gaming.
They will choose a character they want to play based on characteristics they find intriguing in each option. Make your characters distinguishable yet personable. Make them stars in their own right.
Start by sketching out the vision you have for each character. Carefully identify what about the sketches makes each character important or memorable. This way, you’ll be able to identify the must-haves of each character as you progress into the actual character building stages on the screen.
There is fantastic software available that has 2D graphics and works great for beginners. This is a great way to test out the look and feel of your characters without paying royalties. There are also 3D programs for use.
4. Take a Break…
…you deserve one. At this point, you’ve worked long and hard to build your own video game. You can not continue in an open space with creativity flowing if you never take a break. Put your designs away for a moment and go out into the open air.
Not only will you refresh your mind and soul, you just might find new inspiration for your game. You need to return every day with a fresh, new perspective on your game. If you never take a break, your mind can never recharge.
This will also be a great way to help you decide if the project is a worthwhile cause or not. Time away from the game will help you check-in with reality and see if it is something that will find a niche. If not, don’t be afraid to go back to the drawing board and start over.
5. Ladies and Gentleman, Start Your Engines
It’s time to decide on an engine. The engine is the foundation and underlying spirit of your game. It encompasses all of the nitty-gritty details of your creation.
Consider using an existing engine to save time. There is no need to create a brand new engine for your game when there are so many great options out there. Choose an indie developer engine.
Through engines, you’ll be able to change the graphics and the sound. You can mess with the AI. Every engine is going to offer you different things.
Some will be perfect for your 2D game, while others work better for 3D games.
Carefully analyze all the engines you’re considering because some require a lot more know-how than others. Next, you’ll pull your game together through the engine, finesse the details, and play it as much as possible.
Let It Play
Playing your game as much as possible is going to help you eliminate the kinks and ensure that your game is a cohesive, fun game to play. When it comes to the work you have to put in to build your own video game, it can be overwhelming.
That’s where this fun part comes in, the actual playing of your video game. If there is any area that doesn’t feel great, simply refine it and move on. Play it from beginning to end and make sure it is complete.
For more tips and tricks on DIY ventures, learn more here.