Who doesn’t love playing games? Almost everyone enjoys them because games offer compelling advantages and strong appeal, sparking curiosity and a desire to try them. Creating games might seem daunting, but it’s more accessible than you think, and you can even develop your own. Here, we’ll explore various ways to make games for beginners, starting from scratch with coding.
Learning how to make simple games from the ground up is a rewarding process that offers valuable skills. With the increasing popularity of games on smartphones, many are starting to learn how to create games with their own unique gameplay and potentially sell them.
Consequently, app stores are now filled with a wide variety of games, both free and paid. These games are built using diverse methods but often share fundamental concepts, especially when it comes to leveraging code to bring them to life.
Before diving into crafting games with your own gameplay and design, it’s essential to grasp the basics of coding, ideally in at least one programming language. This knowledge becomes particularly crucial if you aim to customize the visual aspects and mechanics of your game.
Programming languages are foundational to game development. Understanding coding is the bedrock of creating games, especially if you are looking to make games that are more than just template-based. Learning how to make games with coding empowers you with the ability to shape your game exactly as you envision it.
Contents
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1. Programming Languages Used in Simple Game Development
2. Steps to Make Your Own Game From Scratch
3. Essential Skills for Game Development
4. Key Considerations in Game Development
5. Making Games with Stencyl
1. Programming Languages Used in Simple Game Development
As previously mentioned, programming languages are indispensable in game development. Creating mobile games can be achieved using various programming languages, each with its strengths and ideal applications.
If you have a solid grasp of even one programming language, you possess a significant advantage in mobile game development. For more intricate games designed for computers or consoles, a broader and deeper understanding of programming languages is necessary.
Here are some commonly used programming languages in game development:
- JavaScript
JavaScript is a popular choice for game development, especially for web-based games and simple mobile games. Learning how to make games with JavaScript is relatively accessible, thanks to its widespread use and extensive online resources. You can create straightforward mobile games with your own design and concepts using JavaScript in combination with HTML and CSS for structuring and styling the game.
Many individuals are proficient in JavaScript, meaning a large pool of developers already possess a fundamental skill required for creating games with unique designs and concepts. Frameworks and libraries like Phaser and PixiJS further simplify game development with JavaScript, providing pre-built functionalities and tools.
- Java
Java is another widely adopted programming language in the gaming industry, particularly for Android mobile game development. Java’s robustness and platform independence make it a strong choice for creating games that run smoothly on Android devices. You can use Java, along with Android Studio, to develop games with customized visuals and mechanics within the Android ecosystem.
Video games built with Java are known for their efficiency, speed, and ease of personalization. Java is considered a relatively easy-to-learn and use programming language, making it a good starting point for aspiring game developers interested in the Android platform. Libraries like LibGDX offer cross-platform game development capabilities with Java.
- Swift
Swift is the primary programming language for Apple platforms, including iOS. Just as Java dominates Android game development, Swift is crucial for creating applications and games for iPhones and iPads.
Swift is a relatively modern language, designed by Apple specifically for their operating systems. It is often favored by beginner programmers learning how to make games for the first time on iOS due to its clear syntax and powerful features. Frameworks like SpriteKit and SceneKit are specifically designed for game development in Swift, making it easier to create 2D and 3D games for iOS devices.
- C Languages (C, C#, C++)
The C family of programming languages, including C, C#, and C++, are powerful workhorses in the game development world. These languages are predominantly used for developing more complex and demanding applications and games.
A significant portion of games played on computers and consoles are built using combinations of C, C#, and C++. These languages offer low-level control, performance optimization, and access to hardware, making them ideal for graphically intensive and performance-critical games. While they are more complex to learn, especially for beginners, mastering these languages opens doors to developing high-end, professional-grade games. C# is particularly popular with the Unity game engine, while C++ is widely used with Unreal Engine, two of the most popular game engines in the industry.
2. Steps to Make Your Own Game From Scratch
Learning how to make your own game from scratch is an engaging and highly valuable endeavor. Especially with the widespread popularity of mobile gaming on Android and other platforms, the potential to create and even sell your own games is significant.
To create a simple game from the ground up, you need to start with the fundamentals. Initially, the process might seem challenging and demanding, but it’s important to persevere and learn from the ground up rather than outsourcing your project to experienced developers immediately. Mastering each step yourself provides a deeper understanding and greater control over your game’s development.
Read Also: Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Definition and How It Works
Beyond programming languages, which are the core of creating games with your unique designs and concepts, here is a guide outlining the steps to make a simple game from scratch:
- Research and Conceptualize Your Game Idea
The first step is to research and conceptualize the game you want to create. This involves exploring the skills needed to bring your game to life and identifying the features you want to include. Consider the type and concept of game you want to make – what genre will it be? What kind of gameplay will it have? What unique features will set it apart? Researching existing games in your chosen genre can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Understand what resources, tools, and knowledge are required to make your game a reality.
- Create a Design Document
Once you have a solid concept for your game, the next step is to create a design document. This document serves as a blueprint for your game, outlining its concept, visual style, mechanics, and the steps required for development. A design document doesn’t need to be overly complex initially, but it should capture the essential elements of your game. Key aspects to consider when creating a design document include:
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Skills Inventory:
Assess your current skills. Your existing skills are valuable assets. If you lack certain skills, you might need to invest time in learning them or consider collaborating with others. -
Language Choice:
Specify the programming language(s) you plan to use. This decision will influence the development process and the tools you’ll need. -
Game Features and Visuals:
Detail the game’s intended visuals and features. If you anticipate needing to modify features in the future, outline aspects that should be designed for flexibility and scalability. This includes game mechanics, user interface, and overall aesthetic.
- Choose Your Software and Tools
The next step in learning how to make games and realizing your game idea is selecting the right software and tools. For simple mobile games, especially 2D games, you might not need highly specialized software beyond a game engine and development environment. However, for more complex games, particularly those with advanced graphics or 3D elements, you’ll need specific software like 3D modeling tools, animation software, and potentially specialized game engines.
Popular game engines include Unity and Unreal Engine, which provide comprehensive suites of tools for game development, from visual scripting to asset management and deployment. Choosing the right engine depends on the type of game you’re making, your programming proficiency, and the platforms you’re targeting.
- Start Programming (Coding)
After selecting your software and tools, the next crucial step is to begin coding. Some simpler game types might utilize visual scripting within game engines, reducing the amount of traditional coding required. However, for customized gameplay mechanics and more intricate game logic, coding is essential. You need to choose the programming language you’ve planned for and start building the core functionalities of your game based on your design document. This involves writing scripts to control game objects, handle user input, manage game states, and implement game rules.
- Test Your Game and Begin Marketing
The final steps involve rigorous testing and then marketing your finished game. Testing is crucial to identify and eliminate bugs and ensure a smooth player experience. This process can be time-consuming, requiring patience and thoroughness. Playtest your game extensively, and ideally, have others test it as well to get unbiased feedback.
Once you are confident in your game’s quality and stability, it’s time to think about marketing. The marketing and sales process can vary depending on your goals. You might consider creating a marketing strategy, utilizing social media, or even working with a marketing consultant to reach a wider audience. For mobile games, app store optimization (ASO) is crucial to improve visibility in app stores.
These are the fundamental steps in how to make simple games from scratch. While each step involves learning and effort, the process is incredibly rewarding, especially when you see your game come to life and are able to share it with others.
3. Essential Skills for Game Development
Creating games is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a blend of skills. While it can be challenging, mastering certain core skills is essential for success. Here are some key skills you need to develop when learning how to make games:
- Programming Languages
Programming proficiency is a foundational skill. You should start by choosing a programming language suitable for beginners and game development, such as Python (often used with Pygame for 2D games), JavaScript (for web and simple mobile games), or C# (for Unity). Understanding programming concepts like variables, loops, functions, and object-oriented programming is crucial.
- Software Proficiency
Familiarity with game development software is essential. This includes game engines like Unity, Unreal Engine, Godot Engine, or others, depending on your game type and preferences. Learn how to use the engine’s interface, tools, and features. Many online tutorials and courses are available to help you learn specific software packages. Experimenting with different software and following tutorials is a great way to learn effectively.
- Framework and Libraries Knowledge
Frameworks and libraries streamline the coding process by providing pre-written code and functionalities. For example, in JavaScript game development, Phaser and PixiJS are popular frameworks. In Python, Pygame is a common library. Frameworks help in tasks like handling graphics, audio, input, and game logic, allowing you to write code faster, more efficiently, and in a structured manner.
- Problem-Solving Skills
Game development is inherently a problem-solving activity. You’ll frequently encounter challenges and bugs that require creative and logical thinking to overcome. Strong problem-solving skills are crucial for debugging code, optimizing game performance, and finding solutions to design and technical challenges. Cultivating a methodical approach to problem-solving, breaking down complex issues into smaller, manageable parts, is invaluable in game development.
Each game project might demand different skills and knowledge depending on its complexity and genre. The most important thing is to continuously hone your skills and be adaptable. With a strong skillset, you’ll be better equipped to tackle any challenges and find effective solutions.
4. Key Considerations in Game Development
To realize your ambition of creating games, start by learning how to make simple games first. This progressive approach allows you to build skills and gradually tackle more complex projects. If you’re interested in making mobile games, here are several key considerations to guide you before you begin:
- Define Your Game Idea and Genre
The first step is to solidify your game idea, which largely involves choosing a genre. Game genres are diverse, ranging from VR, action, FPS (first-person shooter), 2D platformers, battle royale, RPG (role-playing game), puzzle, strategy, and many more.
Read Also: Game Developer: Learn Tips and How to Get Started
After selecting a genre that aligns with your interests and capabilities, consider the unique selling points and appeal of your game. What will make it stand out? Think about technical elements such as sound effects, visual concepts, and music. These elements significantly contribute to the player experience and should be carefully considered.
- Choose the Right Tools
Before diving into development, you need to select and install the necessary tools. For Android game development, essential tools include the Android SDK (Software Development Kit) and an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) like Android Studio, which is the official tool for Android app and game development.
These tools are fundamental, and using them effectively often requires some understanding of Java or Kotlin programming languages (though Kotlin is increasingly favored for modern Android development). These tools provide access to hardware acceleration via standard APIs like OpenGL or Vulkan, which are crucial for game performance.
- Select a Graphics Engine
Game development, whether for simple or complex games, is significantly streamlined by using a game engine that integrates an IDE with a graphics engine. Popular choices include Unity and Unreal Engine, favored for their user-friendly interfaces, especially for beginners.
A key difference lies in their primary programming languages and strengths. Unity primarily uses C# and is well-suited for developing 2D games and simpler 3D games. Games made with Unity tend to be resource-efficient, making them suitable for mobile platforms.
Unreal Engine, on the other hand, is geared towards high-fidelity 3D graphics and uses C++. It’s often preferred for PC and console games that demand complex and detailed visuals. Unreal Engine offers cutting-edge graphics capabilities but typically requires more powerful hardware to run smoothly, especially on mobile devices.
- Start Developing Your Game
The final step in creating your Android game is to begin the development process. This involves bringing your game idea, design, and chosen tools together. Game development requires a solid understanding of programming languages and algorithmic thinking. Additionally, you’ll need to prepare other assets like theme music, sound effects, logos, and UI elements.
While learning how to make games might initially seem complex due to the need to understand programming, coding, and various technical aspects, it’s important to remember that you can start with simpler approaches and gradually build your skills.
Even without deep coding knowledge, you can still create your own games using no-code or low-code platforms. Here are some examples of platforms that enable game creation without extensive coding:
- AppsGeyser
AppsGeyser is a website that allows you to create games without coding. It offers a straightforward menu-driven interface, making it easy to understand and use. You can quickly create your own games through this platform by visiting the AppsGeyser website in your computer browser. AppsGeyser is ideal for creating very simple, template-based mobile games.
- Quickappninja
Quickappninja is another popular platform for creating games without coding. To use Quickappninja, you first need to register on their site. Then, select “Create Game Now,” choose a game type template, edit the game as desired, and configure the settings. Quickappninja offers more customization options than AppsGeyser and is often used for quiz games, puzzle games, and similar simple genres.
- Draw Your Game
Draw Your Game offers a unique approach. You can draw your game elements on paper, then upload these drawings into the platform to create a playable game. This method is particularly creative and user-friendly. To make games with Draw Your Game, you need to draw your game elements on paper and use the Draw Your Game app, available for Android, to scan and convert your drawings into game assets. This platform is excellent for very basic, visually simple games and for educational purposes to introduce game creation concepts in a fun way.
These are just a few examples of platforms that simplify game creation, especially for beginners. They provide a starting point for those who want to learn how to make games without immediately diving into complex coding.
These insights provide a comprehensive overview of how to make games easily, especially for beginners. With this information, readers can become more creative and develop their skills, turning the dream of making a game into a tangible reality. Good luck, and have fun creating!
5. Making Games with Stencyl
Now that you understand the basics of how to make games, let’s explore a tool that makes game creation fun and intuitive through object manipulation and logic blocks – Stencyl. With Stencyl, you can create games without writing a single line of code in the traditional sense. Here’s how to make games with Stencyl:
Read Also: Ruby Programming Language: Definition, Functions, and Types
Plan Your Game
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Write a Basic Game Description: Start by outlining the basic concept of your game in writing. Having a written description helps you visualize your game and stay focused as you develop it.
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Sketch Some Game Screens: Create basic sketches of the screens you envision for your game. They don’t need to be detailed, but they should represent the key elements and layout of your game screens.
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Choose Your Game Creation Method: Decide on the method you will use to create your game. Stencyl is an excellent choice as it allows you to build games using visual scripting with object-based logic, minimizing the need for traditional coding.
Steps to Use Stencyl
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Install Stencyl: Download and install the Stencyl application on your computer. Stencyl is a game-making program that utilizes visual blocks and logic rather than conventional coding. You’ll use drag-and-drop logic blocks to control game objects and behaviors.
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Stencyl’s Free and Paid Versions: Stencyl offers a free version, which is fully functional for learning and creating games. The free version is suitable for online publishing, but it will include a Stencyl logo splash screen at the start of your game. Paid versions remove the splash screen and offer additional publishing options.
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Start a New Game: When you first open Stencyl, you’ll see featured games and templates. These examples can be helpful to explore and understand how games are structured in Stencyl.
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Create a New Game: To start your own game, click the box with a dashed line labeled “Click here to create a new game” on the dashboard.
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Select a Kit: Stencyl provides Kits, which are pre-packaged assets and objects designed to help you quickly start building games. Kits include ready-made resources and logic blocks that accelerate the development process.
Choosing a Kit can be a quick way to start, or you can begin with a blank project for full customization.
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Choose “Blank Game”: For a completely customized experience, select the “Blank Game” kit. This option provides a clean slate, allowing you to build your game from scratch. You can also explore other Kits to see how they are structured and learn from them.
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Input Game Information: Before diving into game development, you need to enter some basic information about your game:
- Name: The name of your game.
- Screen Size: The screen resolution for your game. If you’re unsure, a common starting size is 640 pixels wide and 480 pixels high. This resolution is suitable for many 2D games.
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Familiarize Yourself with the Layout: Get acquainted with the Stencyl interface. The Dashboard is your central hub for managing games and accessing resources. Key sections include:
- Scenes: This is where you visually construct your game levels and environments, placing assets and actors.
- Resources: This section lists all game assets and objects, including actors, backgrounds, fonts, scenes, logic blocks (behaviors), sounds, and tilesets.
- Settings: Here, you can adjust various game properties, such as controls, gravity, collision settings, display options, and more.
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Create Actors: Actors are the interactive objects in your game – characters, enemies, items, etc. Every interactive element in your game will likely be an actor.
To create an actor, click “Actor Types” in the Resources menu. Then, choose “Click here to create an Actor Type”. You’ll then have options to customize your actor:
- Create Player and Enemy Actors: In the Actor Editor, go to the Properties Tab and select a group (e.g., “Players,” “Enemies”) to categorize your actors.
- Add Behaviors (Movement, Jump, etc.): Click the Behaviors Tab, then “Add Behavior,” choose a behavior (like “Walking” or “Jumping”), and click “Choose.” Behaviors are pre-built logic blocks that define how actors behave.
- Set Up Controls: Use the Controls settings within Behaviors to define which keys will control actor movement (e.g., arrow keys for left and right movement).
- Create a Scene: A scene represents a level or screen in your game. It’s where the gameplay takes place, with backgrounds, actors, and interactive elements.
To create a new scene, click “Scenes” in Resources, then click the dashed box to “Create a Scene.” To populate your scene:
- Background: Click “Create Background” in the scene editor to add a background image or color.
- Tiles: Select a tileset (if you have one) and use the tile tool to paint tiles onto the scene, creating platforms, walls, and other environment elements.
- Place Actors: Switch to the Actors tab and drag and drop actors from your Actor Types onto the scene.
- Add Gravity: In the Scene Editor, go to the Physics Tab. In the Gravity box, input a value like 85 to simulate earth-like gravity, making actors fall realistically.
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Test Your Game: Before publishing or sharing, always test your game thoroughly. To test, click the “Test Game” button at the top of the Stencyl interface. This will run your game in a test window, allowing you to play and check for issues.
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Add Enhancements: To make your game more engaging, consider adding features like challenges, timers, scores, power-ups, or level progression. Experiment with different behaviors and logic blocks to enhance gameplay.
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Create a Site Lock (Optional): If you plan to upload your game online and want to restrict where it can be played, you can use the Site Lock feature. Go to Game Settings > Loader > Site Lock to specify allowed domains for your game.
Making games online without deep coding knowledge is now easily accessible with tools like Stencyl. It’s a fantastic platform to unleash your creativity and bring your game ideas to life. Why wait? Start creating your own games with Stencyl today and explore the exciting world of game development!
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