Who doesn’t love playing games? Almost everyone enjoys games because they offer compelling advantages and strong appeal, sparking curiosity and a challenge to try them. Creating games might seem daunting, but it’s more accessible than you think. You can even develop your own games. This guide will explore various ways to create games for beginners, starting from scratch.
Learning how to make simple games from the ground up is a rewarding process, offering both enjoyment and valuable skills. The increasing popularity of games playable on smartphones has inspired many to learn how to create games with their own unique gameplay and potentially sell them.
Consequently, app stores are now filled with diverse game types, available for free or purchase. While these games are created using different methods, they often share fundamental concepts.
Before diving into creating games with your own gameplay and concept, understanding coding basics with at least one programming language is essential, especially if you aim to customize the visual aspects and mechanics of your game.
Programming languages are fundamental because they form the bedrock of game development. Therefore, learning how to make simple games from scratch requires grasping coding principles using a programming language.
Contents
hide
1. Programming Languages Used to Make Simple Games
2. Steps to Make Your Own Game From Scratch
3. Skills You Need to Make Games
4. How to Make a Game: Key Considerations
5. Creating Games with Stencyl
1. Programming Languages Used to Make Simple Games
As previously mentioned, programming languages are crucial in game development. Creating games for mobile devices can be achieved using various programming languages.
Mastering even one programming language provides a solid foundation for building mobile games. However, more complex games for computers or consoles demand broader and more intricate programming language proficiency.
Here are some commonly used programming languages in game development:
- JavaScript
JavaScript is a frequently used language for game development. Learning how to make games with JavaScript is relatively straightforward. You can create simple mobile games with your own designs and concepts using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
Many individuals are now proficient in JavaScript, meaning they possess at least one fundamental skill required for creating games with their own unique designs and concepts.
- Java
Another popular language for game development is Java. Java is a leading programming language for creating games on Android mobile devices. You can use Java to develop games for Android that offer customizable visuals and mechanics using Android Studio.
Video games built with Java are efficient, fast, and easily personalized. Java is generally considered an easy-to-learn and use programming language, making it a great choice for beginners venturing into game development.
- Swift
Swift is a programming language primarily used for developing applications and games for iOS mobile devices.
Swift is a relatively newer language specifically designed for the iOS ecosystem. It is a favorite among beginner programmers learning how to make games for the first time on Apple devices.
- C Programming Languages
The C family of languages, including C, C#, and C++, are also widely used in game development. These languages are employed to create more complex and sophisticated applications and games.
Most games played on computers or consoles are built using a combination of C, C#, and C++. These programming languages are more complex and can be challenging to learn, especially for beginners. Therefore, if you’re serious about a career in application, software, or game development, learning and mastering these languages is highly recommended.
2. Steps to Make Your Own Game From Scratch
Making your own game from scratch is a rewarding and valuable endeavor, especially given the global popularity of mobile gaming on Android. You have the potential to create and sell your own games.
To create a simple game from scratch, you need to learn from the ground up. The initial learning curve might seem steep and challenging, but it’s crucial to persevere and avoid outsourcing your game project to experts prematurely. Gaining a foundational understanding is key.
Read Also: Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Definition and How It Works
Beyond programming languages, which are fundamental for creating games with your own design and concept, here’s a guide outlining steps for making a simple game from scratch:
- Research and Conceptualize Your Game
The first step is to research the game concept you want to create. Investigate and gather information about the skills needed to bring your game to life and the features you will need. Consider the type and concept of the game you envision, and the features you want to incorporate. Research what is necessary to make your game a reality.
- Create a Design Document
Once you have a conceptual understanding of your desired game, the next step is to create a design document. This document serves as a concise outline of your game, including its concept, visual style, and the steps required for development. Key elements to consider when creating a design document include:
- Skills: Your existing skills are valuable assets. If you lack certain skills, you may need to invest in acquiring them or hiring someone with the necessary expertise to contribute to the design document.
- Language: The language used in the design document is important for clear communication and for specifying the game development process.
- Game Visuals and Features: Consider the visual style and features of your game. If you anticipate modifying features in the future, you need to anticipate these needs in your design document.
- Choose Your Software
The next step in how to make a game and realize your vision is selecting the right software. For simple mobile games on Android, specialized software might not be essential. However, for more complex games, specific software, such as design and 3D modeling tools, will be required.
- Start Programming
After selecting your software, the next stage is to begin coding. While some complex games require dedicated game-making applications, simpler mobile games may not. Simply decide on your programming language and start building the game you’ve designed.
- Test and Market Your Game
The final steps are testing and marketing. Thoroughly test your game to identify and eliminate bugs. This testing phase can be time-consuming, so allocate sufficient time for it.
Once you are confident in your game’s quality, it’s time to market it. Marketing and sales don’t have to be complicated; you can consider hiring a marketing consultant to handle this aspect. This outlines how to make a simple game from scratch.
3. Skills You Need to Make Games
Creating a game can be both easy and challenging, necessitating a set of fundamental skills. Here are some essential skills for how to make games:
- Programming Languages: Proficiency in programming languages is a must-have skill. Start by choosing a simpler language if you’re a beginner.
- Software Proficiency: Understanding and utilizing game development software is crucial. Once you’ve chosen your software, learn how it works through online tutorials, which are readily available. Practice by following tutorials using your chosen software to solidify your understanding.
- Framework Knowledge: Frameworks are tools that assist in writing code more efficiently and in a structured manner. They streamline the coding process, making it faster, easier, and more organized.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Game development is rarely a smooth process. You’ll likely encounter complex challenges. Game developers need strong problem-solving skills to effectively address difficulties, find solutions, and minimize issues.
The specific skills and knowledge required vary depending on the type of game being developed. However, honing your core skills is crucial. With strong skills, you can effectively tackle even significant challenges and find optimal solutions.
4. How to Make a Game: Key Considerations
To fulfill your ambition of making games, start by learning how to make simple games first. This will allow you to progressively develop skills for creating more complex games. If you’re interested in making your own mobile games, here are some key considerations before you begin:
- Define Your Game Idea
The first step is to define your game idea, including the genre. Game genres are diverse, ranging from VR, action, FPS (first-person shooter), 2D platformers, battle royale, RPG, and many more.
Read Also: Game Developer: Learn Tips and How to Get Started
After deciding on the genre, consider the unique selling points and appeal of your game. Technical aspects like sound effects, visual concepts, and music should also be carefully planned.
- Tools You Will Use
Next, determine and install the necessary tools or basic software. Creating Android games requires specific tools.
Essential tools for Android game development include the Android SDK (Software Development Kit) and IDE (Integrated Development Environment) Android Studio, the official tools for Android application and game development.
These tools are vital, but their effective use requires knowledge of the Java programming language. They offer advantages like access to hardware acceleration with standard APIs like OpenGL or Vulkan.
- Choosing a Graphics Engine
Game development, whether simple or complex, can be significantly simplified by integrating an IDE with a graphics engine. Popular engines like Unity and Unreal are favored by developers for their user-friendly interfaces, especially for beginners.
A key difference is that Unity uses C# programming language, suitable for simpler 2D games. Games built with Unity tend to be resource-efficient and can run smoothly on Android smartphones.
Unreal Engine, on the other hand, is better suited for 3D games with intricate graphics. Unreal uses C++, resulting in games often designed for PCs and consoles due to higher graphical fidelity and greater resource demands. Playing Unreal Engine games on smartphones typically requires high-specification devices.
- Start Developing Your Game
The final step is to start developing your Android game. This involves using the design, concept, and tools you’ve prepared. Game development requires programming language skills and a good understanding of algorithms. Additionally, prepare other resources like theme music, sound effects, logos, and more.
While making games might sound complex due to the need for programming and coding knowledge, you can still create your own games even without mastering coding or programming languages.
Here are examples of applications or websites that allow you to create games without coding:
- AppsGeyser
AppsGeyser is a website that enables you to create your own games without coding. It offers simple menu features, making it easy to understand and allowing you to quickly create games. To use AppsGeyser, visit their website through your computer browser.
- Quickappninja
Quickappninja is a popular site for creating games without coding or programming languages. To use Quickappninja, first register on their site, then select “Create Game Now,” choose a game type, edit the game, and finally configure the settings.
- Draw Your Game
Draw Your Game offers a unique approach. You can use your own drawings on paper and incorporate them into your game. To make a game with Draw Your Game, you’ll need drawings of your game on paper and the Draw Your Game application downloaded on your Android device. This offers a beginner-friendly way to explore game creation.
This is a brief overview of how to make Android games for beginners. Try these methods to create games with your desired types and concepts.
Hopefully, this information about how to make games easily for beginners will encourage readers to be more creative and hone their skills so that making a game becomes an achievable dream. Good luck and have fun experimenting!
5. Creating Games with Stencyl
Now that you know making your own game is fun and insightful, you can delve deeper by manipulating objects and logic. You can create games without writing a single line of code. To make a game using Stencyl, prepare the following:
Read Also: Ruby Programming Language: Definition, Function, and Types
Plan Your Game
- Start by writing a basic description. Outline what you want to achieve with your game in writing. This serves as a reference point as you work.
- Sketch some designs. Create basic sketches of your desired game screens. Detailed drawings are not necessary, but having visual ideas of different elements is helpful.
- Choose a game-making method. Select the method you will use to create your game. Stencyl is a great option as it allows you to build games using object scripts.
Steps to Use Stencyl
- Install Stencyl on your device. Stencyl is a game creation program that doesn’t require coding. You will use logic tools to manipulate objects within your game.
- Stencyl is free to use if you intend to publish your game online. Like other free versions, a Stencyl logo will appear at the start of your game.
- Start a new game. When you first open Stencyl, you’ll see recommended games. You can use these as examples to understand how they work.
- To start creating your game, click the box with lines on it labeled “Click here to create new game”.
- Choose a Kit. Kits contain pre-made assets and objects to help you build and run your game quickly and easily.
To create a game by selecting a kit, choose “Blank Game.” You can also explore kits created by other users for inspiration.
- Input game information. Before diving into game creation, you need to enter some information:
- Name: The name of your game.
- Screen Size: Screen size will affect the art. If unsure, try using a width of 640 px and a height of 480 px.
- Familiarize yourself with the layout. Understand the Stencyl layout. The Dashboard displays games you can access the source code for. You can also modify game settings here. Settings include:
- Scenes: This shows the actual game with all assets.
- Resources: This lists all objects and assets. You’ll find actors, backgrounds, fonts, scenes, logic, sounds, and tilesets.
- Settings: Allows you to adjust how the game functions, including controls, gravity, collisions, screen settings, and more.
- Create Actors. Every game needs actors, which are objects that can move or interact within the game. You will need actors for every interactive object in your game.
To create actors, click “Actor Types” in the Resources menu. Then select the actor you want. There are several options when creating actors:
- Create player and enemy actors: Open Actor Editor > Properties Tab > Choose group
- Choose behaviors (walk, jump, stomp): Click Behaviors Tab > Click Add Behavior > Choose Behavior > Choose.
- Configure controls: Use the menu to select keys to move the actor right and left.
- How to make a game scene. A scene is what players see when playing your game. It includes the background, objects, and actors.
To create a new scene, click Scenes in Resources > Click the Lined Box > Enter a new scene name. To modify components, use these tools:
- Background: Click Create
- Tile: Click and drag with your mouse to place tiles.
- Place actors: Click the Actors Tab and switch to available actors.
- Add gravity: Click the Physics Tab in the window > go to the Gravity box > input 85 to simulate Earth’s gravity.
- Test your game: Don’t be complacent after creation. It’s best to test the game you’ve made. To test your game, use the Test Game button at the top of the screen.
- Add enhancements: Don’t make it identical to previous games. Try adding challenges, timers, and other features.
- Create Site Lock: Upload your finished game and use site lock to prevent it from being played outside authorized sites. Click Game Settings > Loader > Site Lock.
Creating online games without deep coding knowledge is easier than you might think. There are still more ways to make games easily with Stencyl, which is accessible for free. What are you waiting for? Create games according to your creativity now!
Interested in learning how to make games from scratch? Get your promo now!
