How to Make Android Games with Coding: A Beginner’s Guide

Making games can seem like a daunting task, but it’s more accessible than you might think, even if you’re starting from scratch. The popularity of mobile gaming on smartphones has inspired many to learn how to create their own games and even potentially sell them. Today, app stores are filled with diverse game types, all built with varying methods but sharing fundamental concepts.

Before diving into creating your own game with unique gameplay and design, understanding the basics of coding, particularly in at least one programming language, is essential. This knowledge becomes crucial when you want to customize the look and feel, and core mechanics of your game.

Programming languages are the backbone of game development. Learning to code is a foundational step in understanding how to bring your game ideas to life. This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of creating Android games with coding, starting from zero.

Contents
hide

1. Programming Languages for Simple Android Game Development
2. Steps to Create Your Own Game From Scratch
3. Essential Skills for Game Development
4. Key Considerations When Making a Game
5. Creating Games with Stencyl

1. Programming Languages for Simple Android Game Development

As mentioned earlier, programming languages are fundamental in game creation. For Android mobile games, several languages are commonly used. Mastering even one can provide a solid foundation for game development. More complex games for PC or consoles, however, often demand a broader and more intricate understanding of programming.

Here are some popular programming languages used in game development:

• JavaScript

JavaScript is a widely used language for web development, and it extends its reach into game development, particularly for browser-based games and mobile games using frameworks like Phaser or PixiJS. Learning to make games with JavaScript can be relatively straightforward, especially for beginners already familiar with web technologies. By combining JavaScript with HTML5 and CSS3, you can create simple yet engaging mobile games with custom designs and concepts. The large community and extensive resources for JavaScript make it an excellent starting point for aspiring game developers.

• Java

Java is a cornerstone language for Android app development, and it naturally extends to Android game development. It’s a robust and versatile language well-suited for creating mobile games on the Android platform. Using Java with Android Studio, the official Android development environment, allows for deep customization of game mechanics and visuals. Games built with Java are known for their efficiency, speed, and ease of personalization. Java’s object-oriented nature and platform independence make it a popular choice in the game development community, especially for those targeting the Android market. Its relatively gentle learning curve compared to languages like C++ makes it accessible for beginners.

• Swift

If Java is the go-to language for Android, Swift is its counterpart in the Apple ecosystem, primarily used for iOS app and game development. Swift is a modern, powerful, and intuitive language created by Apple specifically for their platforms. It’s designed to be safer, faster, and easier to read and write than its predecessor, Objective-C. Swift has gained popularity among beginner programmers because of its clear syntax and robust features. While primarily for iOS, learning Swift provides a pathway to developing games for iPhones and iPads, opening up another significant mobile gaming market.

• C Languages (C, C#, C++)

The C family of languages, particularly C, C#, and C++, are powerhouses in the game development world, especially for creating complex and demanding games. These languages are often used for games played on PCs and consoles due to their performance capabilities and control over hardware. C++ is renowned for its speed and is frequently used in game engines like Unreal Engine. C# is the primary language for Unity, one of the most popular game engines across platforms. C languages are considered more complex to learn, especially for beginners, but mastering them unlocks the ability to create sophisticated games with advanced graphics and intricate gameplay. For those serious about a career in game or software development, especially in the AAA game industry, learning C languages is highly recommended.

2. Steps to Create Your Own Game From Scratch

Creating a game from scratch is a rewarding and enriching experience. The global popularity of Android gaming makes it a potentially lucrative field if you decide to sell your creations. While the initial learning curve might seem steep, breaking down the process into manageable steps makes it less intimidating. It’s crucial to learn the fundamentals yourself rather than outsourcing the entire project, as understanding the underlying processes is key to future growth as a game developer.

Read Also: Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Definition and How It Works

Beyond programming languages, here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a simple game from the ground up:

1. Research and Conceptualize Your Game Idea

The first step is to thoroughly research and develop your game concept. This involves identifying the skills needed to bring your game to life and understanding the necessary features. Consider the type of game you want to create – what genre, style, and unique elements will it have? Think about the core gameplay loop and the target audience. Research existing games in your chosen genre to identify what works well and where you can innovate. Brainstorming and gathering information at this stage are crucial for a well-defined project.

2. Create a Design Document

Once you have a solid concept, the next step is to create a design document. This document serves as a blueprint for your game, outlining its core elements, features, and how they will be implemented. A design document doesn’t need to be overly formal, but it should clearly articulate your game’s vision. Key elements to include in your design document are:

• Skills Inventory: Assess your current skills. Identify areas where you excel and areas where you might need to learn or seek help. This helps in planning the scope of your project and realistic expectations.
• Language Choice: Specify the programming language you intend to use. This decision might be based on your existing skills, the type of game you’re creating, and the resources available for that language.
• Game Features and Visuals: Detail the planned features of your game. This includes gameplay mechanics, user interface (UI) elements, and the overall visual style. Consider sketching out key screens and interactions to visualize your game. Think about future scalability and features you might want to add later.

3. Choose Your Software and Tools

The software and tools you choose will significantly impact your game development process. For simple Android games, especially 2D games, you might not need specialized software beyond a code editor and the Android SDK. However, for more complex games, especially those with advanced graphics or 3D elements, specific software becomes essential. This might include:

• Game Engines: Engines like Unity and Unreal Engine provide a comprehensive suite of tools for game development, including rendering, physics, and scripting systems. They streamline many aspects of game creation, especially for more complex projects.
• Graphics Software: Tools like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP (free), or Blender (free, for 3D) might be needed to create or edit game art and assets.
• Sound Editing Software: Audacity (free) or Adobe Audition can be used to create or edit sound effects and music for your game.

Choose tools that align with your skills, budget, and the complexity of your game.

4. Start Programming (Coding)

With your plan and tools in place, it’s time to start coding. For some simpler games, especially those built with no-code platforms, actual coding might be minimal or non-existent. However, for games built with programming languages, this is where you write the code that dictates how your game works. Start with the core mechanics and gradually build out features. Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable modules. Version control systems like Git are highly recommended to track changes and manage your codebase effectively.

5. Testing and Marketing

After developing a playable version of your game, rigorous testing is crucial. Testing helps identify and eliminate bugs, refine gameplay, and ensure a smooth user experience. Testing can be done in stages, from individual module testing to playtesting with a wider audience. Gather feedback and iterate on your game based on test results.

Once you are confident in your game’s quality, it’s time to think about marketing and distribution. For Android games, this typically involves publishing your game on the Google Play Store. Marketing efforts might include creating trailers, screenshots, and promotional materials. Consider strategies like social media marketing, influencer outreach, and paid advertising to reach your target audience. The marketing phase is crucial for discoverability and potential success in the competitive mobile game market.

These steps provide a roadmap for creating your own simple game from scratch. Remember, game development is often iterative, so be prepared to learn, adapt, and refine your game throughout the process.

3. Essential Skills for Game Development

Making games is a blend of art and science, requiring a diverse set of skills. While the specific skills needed may vary depending on the type of game, some fundamental skills are universally valuable:

• Programming Proficiency:

This is arguably the most crucial skill for many types of game development. Understanding programming logic, data structures, and algorithms is essential. As mentioned earlier, choosing a beginner-friendly language like JavaScript or Java can be a good starting point. Proficiency in programming allows you to implement game mechanics, AI, user interfaces, and much more.

• Software and Tool Familiarity:

Being comfortable with the software and tools of game development is vital. This includes game engines (Unity, Unreal Engine), IDEs (Integrated Development Environments) like Android Studio or Visual Studio, graphics software (Photoshop, GIMP), and potentially sound editing tools. Learning to navigate and effectively utilize these tools significantly streamlines the development process.

• Framework Knowledge:

Frameworks provide pre-built structures and libraries that simplify coding tasks. For example, in JavaScript game development, frameworks like Phaser and PixiJS offer ready-to-use components for game objects, physics, and rendering. Frameworks can significantly speed up development and make code more organized and maintainable.

• Problem-Solving Skills:

Game development is inherently a problem-solving endeavor. You’ll constantly encounter challenges, from debugging code to designing engaging gameplay mechanics. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming these hurdles. The ability to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and systematically find solutions is crucial for successful game development.

• Creativity and Game Design Sense:

While technical skills are important, creativity and a good sense of game design are equally essential. Understanding what makes a game fun and engaging, designing compelling gameplay loops, creating interesting characters and worlds, and thinking about player experience are all part of game design. Creativity fuels innovation and helps you create games that stand out.

• Artistic Skills (Optional but Beneficial):

While not strictly necessary, artistic skills in 2D or 3D art, animation, or UI design can be a significant asset, especially for independent developers or smaller teams. If you don’t have artistic skills yourself, collaborating with artists or using pre-made assets are alternatives.

• Sound Design Skills (Optional but Beneficial):

Sound effects and music are crucial for game immersion and atmosphere. Understanding sound design principles or collaborating with sound designers can greatly enhance your game’s quality.

• Project Management and Time Management:

Game development projects can be complex and time-consuming. Good project management skills, including planning, organization, and time management, are crucial for staying on track and completing projects successfully.

Developing these skills takes time and practice. Start with the basics, focus on continuous learning, and gradually build your skillset as you gain experience in game development.

4. Key Considerations When Making a Game

Before embarking on your game development journey, especially for mobile games, consider these key factors to guide your process:

• Define Your Game Idea and Genre:

The first step is to solidify your game idea. What type of game do you want to create? Determine the genre – is it action, puzzle, strategy, RPG, simulation, or something else? Genres provide a framework and expectations for players. Consider popular genres like:

- **Action Games:** Fast-paced gameplay, often focused on combat or challenges requiring quick reflexes.
- **Puzzle Games:** Games centered around solving puzzles, testing logic and problem-solving abilities.
- **Strategy Games:** Games emphasizing tactical thinking, planning, and resource management.
- **RPG (Role-Playing Games):** Games where players take on roles, develop characters, and progress through stories, often with leveling and customization systems.
- **Simulation Games:** Games that simulate real-world activities or scenarios, from farming to city building.
- **Hyper-Casual Games:** Simple, easily accessible games with minimal mechanics, designed for short play sessions.

Read Also: Game Developer: Learn Tips and How to Start

Beyond genre, think about what will make your game unique and appealing. Consider the core mechanics, target audience, and unique selling points. Also, consider the technical aspects like sound effects, visual style, and music early in the planning phase.

• Choose the Right Tools:

Selecting the appropriate tools is crucial for efficient game development. For Android game development, some essential tools include:

- **Android SDK (Software Development Kit):** The foundational toolkit for Android development, providing libraries and tools necessary to build Android applications, including games.
- **IDE (Integrated Development Environment):** Android Studio is the official IDE for Android development. It provides a comprehensive environment for coding, debugging, and testing Android apps.  Other IDEs like IntelliJ IDEA (Community Edition is free) can also be used.

These tools often require knowledge of Java or Kotlin for native Android development. However, game engines can abstract away some of this complexity.

• Game Engine Selection:

For many game developers, especially beginners, using a game engine is highly recommended. Game engines simplify many complex tasks and provide a visual, user-friendly interface. Popular game engines for Android development include:

- **Unity:**  A highly versatile engine, popular for both 2D and 3D games. Unity uses C# as its primary scripting language and has a vast asset store and community support.  It's known for its ease of use, making it beginner-friendly. Unity is a great choice for mobile games and supports cross-platform development.
- **Unreal Engine:** Known for its powerful graphics capabilities, particularly for 3D games with high fidelity visuals. Unreal Engine uses C++ and is often used for more graphically demanding games. While powerful, it might have a steeper learning curve than Unity for beginners. Unreal Engine is also capable of creating Android games, though it's often favored for PC and console games.

The choice between Unity and Unreal Engine (or other engines) depends on your game’s complexity, visual requirements, programming skills, and desired platform targets. For many simple to moderately complex Android games, Unity is an excellent choice.

• Start Game Development:

Finally, with your idea, tools, and engine chosen, the most exciting step is to start developing your game. This involves coding game logic, creating or importing assets, designing levels or game environments, implementing UI, and iterating on gameplay. This phase requires a good understanding of programming principles, algorithmic thinking, and attention to detail. Remember to break down development into manageable tasks and focus on building core mechanics first. Don’t forget to incorporate sound effects, music, and other resources like logos and theme songs as you progress.

While learning to make games with coding might initially seem complex due to programming languages and coding concepts, remember that there are also no-code game development options available.

If you’re not comfortable with coding, there are platforms that allow you to create games without writing code. Here are a few examples:

• AppsGeyser:

AppsGeyser is a website that allows you to create Android apps, including simple games, without any coding. It provides templates and drag-and-drop interfaces, making game creation accessible to non-programmers. AppsGeyser is a quick way to create basic games, though customization and complexity might be limited compared to coding-based approaches.

• Quickappninja:

Quickappninja is another popular platform for creating Android apps and games without coding. It offers a user-friendly interface and various game templates. To use Quickappninja, you typically need to sign up, select “Create Game Now,” choose a game type, customize it through editing tools, and then configure settings. Quickappninja simplifies the game creation process significantly for those without programming skills.

• Draw Your Game:

Draw Your Game offers a unique approach. It allows you to create games based on drawings you make on paper. You draw your game elements on paper, then use the Draw Your Game app (available on Android) to scan and integrate your drawings into a playable game. This is a fun and creative way to bring hand-drawn game ideas to life, especially for very simple game concepts.

These no-code options provide entry points into game creation for individuals who are not yet comfortable with programming. However, for deeper customization, more complex game mechanics, and a broader range of game types, learning to code remains a valuable skill in game development.

This overview provides information on how to make Android games for beginners. With dedication and practice, you can develop your skills and bring your game ideas to fruition. Good luck, and have fun creating!

5. Creating Games with Stencyl

Now that you understand the basic steps of game development, let’s explore a specific tool: Stencyl. Stencyl is a game development platform that stands out because it allows you to create games without writing code. It uses a visual, block-based programming system, making it accessible to beginners and those who prefer a no-code approach. With Stencyl, you manipulate objects and logic through intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces.

Read Also: Ruby Programming Language: Definition, Functions and Types

To start creating games with Stencyl, here’s what you need to prepare:

Plan Your Game:

• Write a Basic Description: Begin by outlining the core concept of your game in writing. Having a written description helps clarify your vision and provides a reference point throughout development.
• Sketch Game Screens: Create rough sketches of the key screens in your game. These don’t need to be detailed masterpieces, but they should represent the layout and elements you envision for your game’s interface and gameplay areas.
• Choose Your Game Creation Method: Decide on the method you’ll use to create your game. Stencyl is a method that uses visual scripting based on objects.

Steps to Use Stencyl:

• Install Stencyl: Download and install the Stencyl software on your computer. Stencyl is designed for no-code game creation, relying on logic blocks and object manipulation rather than traditional coding.

• Stencyl Pricing: Stencyl offers a free version, which is fully functional for learning and creating games. However, if you plan to publish your games commercially, especially outside of web platforms, you may need to consider a paid license. The free version often includes a Stencyl logo splash screen in your games.

• Start a New Game Project: When you first open Stencyl, you’ll see a dashboard with featured games and options. You can explore example games to see how they are structured and work.

• Create a New Game: To begin your own project, click the box labeled “Click here to create a new game.”

• Select a Kit: Stencyl provides “Kits,” which are pre-made templates and asset packages to help you start faster. Kits include assets, objects, and pre-configured settings.

• Choose “Blank Game”: For a truly from-scratch approach, select the “Blank Game” kit. Alternatively, you can explore other kits to see pre-built examples from other users.

• Enter Game Information: Before diving into game creation, you’ll be prompted to enter basic game information:

  • Name: The name of your game.
  • Screen Size: The screen resolution for your game. If unsure, a common starting resolution is 640 pixels wide by 480 pixels high. This setting affects how your game art will appear.

• Understand the Stencyl Layout: Familiarize yourself with the Stencyl interface. The main areas include:

  • Dashboard: The central hub where you can access your games and project settings.
  • Scene Editor: This is where you visually build your game levels and environments using assets.
  • Resources Panel: This panel lists all your game assets and components, organized into categories: Actors, Backgrounds, Fonts, Scenes, Logic (Behaviors), Sounds, and Tilesets.
  • Settings: Game-wide settings, including controls, physics (gravity, collisions), display options, and more.

• Create Actors: Actors are the interactive objects in your game – characters, enemies, items, etc. Actors are entities that can move, interact, and have behaviors. You’ll need actors for most interactive elements in your game.

To create actors:

• Click “Actor Types” in the Resources panel.

• Click “Click here to create an Actor Type.”

• Choose actor properties:

  1. Create Player and Enemy Actors: In the Actor Editor, go to the “Properties” tab and select “Groups” to categorize your actors (e.g., “Player,” “Enemy”).
  2. Add Behaviors (Movement, Jump, etc.): Go to the “Behaviors” tab, click “Add Behavior,” choose a behavior (like “Walking” or “Jumping”), and click “Choose.”
  3. Configure Controls: Use the behavior settings to define which keys or inputs control actor movement (e.g., arrow keys for left/right movement).

• Create Scenes (Levels): Scenes are the playable environments of your game – levels, screens, or stages. Scenes contain the background, actors, and other elements that players interact with.

To create scenes:

• Click “Scenes” in the Resources panel.

• Click “Click here to create a Scene.”

• To customize a scene, use these tools:

  1. Background: Click “Create New” to set a background image or color for your scene.
  2. Tiles: Select a tileset from your resources, then click and drag on the scene to place tiles, building the level’s ground, walls, and platforms.
  3. Place Actors: Switch to the “Actors” tab, select an actor type, and click on the scene to place instances of that actor in your level.
  4. Add Gravity: To simulate realistic physics, go to the “Physics” tab in the Scene Editor. In the “Gravity” box, enter a value like 85 to simulate Earth-like gravity.

• Test Your Game: Regularly test your game as you build it. Testing allows you to check gameplay, identify bugs, and refine mechanics.

To test:

• Click the “Test Game” button at the top of the Stencyl interface. This will run your game in a test window.

• Add Enhancements: Once the basic game is functional, add extra features to make it more engaging. Consider:

  • Challenge Levels: Design increasingly difficult levels to maintain player interest.
  • Timers or Scoring Systems: Implement timers, scores, or objectives to add goals and replayability.
  • Power-ups or Collectibles: Introduce items that players can collect to gain advantages or bonus points.

• Create a Site Lock (Optional for Web Games): If you plan to publish your game on a specific website, you can use a “Site Lock” to prevent it from being played on unauthorized sites. This option is found in “Game Settings” > “Loader” > “Site Lock.”

Creating games with Stencyl is a user-friendly and accessible way to enter game development, especially without prior coding experience. Explore Stencyl’s features and experiment with its visual scripting to bring your game ideas to life.

Interested in learning how to make games from scratch? Get your promo now!