Who doesn’t love playing games? Most people enjoy gaming because games offer unique advantages and strong appeal, sparking curiosity and challenging players to try them out. Creating games might seem daunting, but it’s more accessible than you think. You can even develop your own games! Here, we’ll explore various ways to create games for beginners, starting from scratch with coding.
Learning how to make simple games from the ground up is a fun and beneficial process. The increasing popularity of games playable on smartphones has motivated many to learn how to create games with their own gameplay styles and potentially sell them. This trend has led to a vast array of game types available in app stores, both free and paid. Fundamentally, these games are built using different methods but often share similar core concepts.
Before diving into how to create a game with your unique gameplay and concept, it’s essential to learn and understand coding using at least one programming language. This is particularly important if you aim to customize the visuals and mechanics of your game. Programming languages are fundamental because they form the very basis of game development. Therefore, learning how to make a simple game from scratch requires grasping coding principles using a programming language.
Programming Languages Used in Simple Game Development
As previously mentioned, programming languages are crucial in game development. Creating games for mobile devices can be achieved using various programming languages. Mastering even a single programming language can equip you with sufficient skills to create a mobile game. However, more complex games for computers or consoles demand broader and more intricate programming language expertise.
Here are some commonly used programming languages for game development:
JavaScript
JavaScript is a popular language for game development. Learning how to make games with JavaScript isn’t overly complicated. You can create mobile games with your own design and concept simply by combining JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Many individuals are already proficient in JavaScript, meaning they possess at least one fundamental skill needed for creating games with their unique designs and concepts.
Java
Another frequently used language for game development is Java. Java is a highly popular choice for creating games on Android mobile devices. You can use Java to develop games with customizable visuals and mechanics using Android Studio. Video games built with Java are known for their efficiency, speed, and ease of personalization. Java is generally considered an easy-to-learn and user-friendly programming language.
Swift
Swift is another noteworthy programming language. While Java is favored for Android, Swift is the go-to language for developing applications and games for iOS mobile devices. Swift is a relatively new language specifically designed for Apple’s iOS ecosystem. It has become a favorite among beginner programmers learning to create games for the first time on iOS platforms.
C Programming Languages (C, C#, C++)
Furthermore, the C programming languages—C, C#, and C++—are widely used in game development. These languages are typically employed for creating more complex and intricate applications or games. A significant portion of games played on computers or consoles are developed using a combination of C, C#, and C++. These languages are considerably complex and can be challenging to learn, especially for beginners. Therefore, if you are serious about pursuing a career in application, software, or game development, learning and mastering these languages is highly recommended.
Steps to Make Your Own Game From Scratch
Creating your own game from scratch is a rewarding and highly beneficial endeavor. Especially given the surge in popularity of Android gaming worldwide, selling and creating your own games can be a viable path. To develop a simple game from the ground up, you need to start with the basics. Initially, it might seem challenging and demanding, but giving up and outsourcing your game project to experts isn’t advisable. It’s crucial to learn everything from the ground up.
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Besides programming languages, which are the core foundation for creating games with your own designs and concepts, here’s a guide outlining the steps to make a simple game from scratch:
- Research and Conceptualize Your Game
The first step is to research and conceptualize the game you want to create. Conduct research to gather information about the skills needed to bring your game to life. Also, identify the features you want to implement. Consider the type and concept of game you envision, as well as the features you plan to build and incorporate. Research and find out what’s needed to make your game a reality.
- Create a Design Document
Once you have a conceptual idea of your desired game, the next step is to create a design document. This document outlines the game’s blueprint, including the concept, visuals, and the steps required for development. To create a design document, consider these aspects:
- Skills: Your existing skills are a valuable asset. Lacking the necessary skills might require significant investment in hiring professionals to create this document.
- Language: Pay attention to the language used in the document. This will help in specifying the game development process.
- Game Visuals and Features: Consider the visual style and features of your game. If you plan to modify game features in the future, anticipate the elements that will require attention.
- Determine Software
The next step in creating your game is to determine the software you will use. Simple games for Android mobile devices may not require specific software. However, more complex games might need specialized software like design and 3D modeling tools.
- Start Programming
After selecting your software, the next step is to begin coding. Some complex games may require game-making applications, while simpler mobile games might not. Decide on the programming language you’ll use and start developing your designed game.
- Test Your Game and Start Marketing
The final step is to test your completed game. Testing aims to identify and eliminate bugs. This process can be time-consuming, so be prepared to dedicate sufficient time to thorough testing. Once you are confident in your game, it’s time to market it. Marketing and sales processes can be simplified by hiring a marketing consultant to handle these aspects.
Skills You Need to Make a Game
Creating a game can be both easy and challenging, requiring a set of fundamental skills. Here are some essential skills for game development:
- Programming Languages: Programming skills are crucial. You can start by choosing a beginner-friendly programming language.
- Software: The software you use for game development is also important. After selecting your software, you can learn its functionalities independently through online tutorials, which are widely available. You can follow tutorials using your chosen software to facilitate practical learning.
- Framework: A framework is a tool that helps in writing code. By using frameworks, you can write code faster, more easily, and in a structured manner.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Game development is rarely straightforward. You’ll often encounter complex challenges and difficulties. Therefore, game developers need strong problem-solving abilities to effectively address issues and find solutions. Good problem-solving skills help minimize problems efficiently and wisely.
However, different games require varying skills and knowledge depending on their type. The most important factor is developing well-honed skills. With strong skills, solutions can be found for even the most significant challenges.
Key Considerations When Making a Game
To realize your game development aspirations, start by learning how to create simple games. This allows you to progressively develop skills for more complex projects. If you are interested in creating your own mobile game, consider these points before starting:
- Define Your Idea
The first step is to define your game idea. This includes deciding on the genre for your game. Game genres are diverse, ranging from VR, action, FPS (first-person shooter), 2D platformer, battle royale, RPG, and many more.
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After deciding on the genre, consider the unique selling points and appeal of your game. Technical elements like sound effects, visual concepts, and music should also be carefully planned.
- Tools to Use
The next step is to determine and install the necessary tools. Creating Android games requires basic tools. Common tools for Android game development include the Android SDK (Software Development Kit) and the Android Studio IDE (Integrated Development Environment), which is the official tool for Android app and game development.
These tools are crucial, but their effective use requires understanding the Java programming language. They offer advantages like access to hardware acceleration via standard APIs like OpenGL or Vulkan.
- Choosing a Graphics Engine
Game development, whether simple or complex, can be simplified by combining an IDE with a graphics engine. Popular choices include Unity and Unreal Engine, favored for their beginner-friendly interfaces.
Unity uses C# and is suitable for simpler 2D games. Games made with Unity are generally resource-efficient and can run on Android smartphones. Unreal Engine, on the other hand, is better suited for 3D games with intricate graphics. It uses C++ and produces games typically played on PCs or consoles. Unreal Engine, with its advanced graphics, demands more resources and requires high-specification smartphones for mobile gaming.
- Start Developing Your Game
The final step in Android game development is to start building your game with your design, concept, and prepared tools. This phase requires proficiency in programming languages and a good understanding of algorithms. Additionally, prepare resources like theme songs, sound effects, logos, and more.
While learning to make games might seem complicated due to the need to understand programming languages and coding, you don’t need to worry if you lack coding expertise. You can still create your own games without mastering coding or programming languages.
Here are examples of applications or websites that enable game creation without coding:
- AppsGeyser
AppsGeyser is a website that allows you to create your own games without coding. It offers simple menu features, making it easy to understand. You can quickly create your game through this website. To use AppsGeyser, visit their website on your computer browser.
- Quickappninja
Quickappninja is a popular site among no-code game creators. To use Quickappninja, you first need to register on their site, then select “Create Game Now,” choose a game type, edit your chosen game, and finally configure your game settings.
- Draw Your Game
Creating games with Draw Your Game is quite unique. You can use your hand-drawn images on paper and incorporate them into your game. This method requires drawings of your game on paper and the Draw Your Game application downloaded on your Android device.
These are some ways to create Android games for beginners, allowing you to try creating games with your desired types and concepts.
In conclusion, this article provides information on easy ways for beginners to create games. Hopefully, readers will be more creative and develop their skills, making their game development dreams achievable. Good luck and happy creating!
How to Make a Game with Stencyl
By now, you know that creating your own game can be fun and insightful, involving object and logic manipulation without writing any code. To make a game using Stencyl, you’ll need the following:
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Plan Your Game
- Start with a Basic Description: Write down a basic description of your game. Having a written outline helps you stay focused as you work on it.
- Sketch Some Ideas: Create basic sketches of your desired game screens. They don’t need to be detailed, but they should give you a visual idea of the elements involved.
- Choose a Game Creation Method: Decide on the method for creating your game. Stencyl is a good option, as it allows you to build games using object scripts.
Steps to Use Stencyl
- Install Stencyl: Stencyl is a game development program that requires no coding. You’ll use logic tools to manipulate game objects.
- Stencyl is Free for Online Publishing: Stencyl is free to use if you plan to publish your game online. Like other free versions, a Stencyl logo will appear at the beginning of your game.
- Start a New Game: When you first open Stencyl, you’ll see recommended games. These can serve as examples, and you can examine how they work.
- Create a New Game: To start creating your own game, click the outlined box labeled “Click here to create new game.”
- Select a Kit: Kits provide pre-made assets and objects to help you build and run your game quickly and easily.
- Choose “Blank Game”: For a completely custom experience, select “Blank Game.” You can also explore kits created by other users for inspiration.
- Enter Game Information: Before diving into game creation, enter some basic information:
- Name: The name of your game.
- Screen Size: The screen size affects the visuals. If unsure, try 640px width and 480px height.
- Familiarize Yourself with the Layout: Get acquainted with the Stencyl layout. The Dashboard shows games you can access and their source files. Here, you can also adjust game settings:
- Scenes: This is where the actual game with all its assets is displayed.
- Resources: Lists all objects and assets, including actors, backgrounds, fonts, scenes, logic, sounds, and tilesets.
- Settings: Allows you to customize game behavior, including controls, gravity, collisions, screen settings, and more.
- Create Actors: Every game needs actors, which are objects that can move and interact within the game. You’ll need actors for every interactive element in your game.
To create an actor, click “Actor Types” in the Resources menu. Then, choose your desired actor type. Here are some options when creating actors:
- Create Player and Enemy Actors: Open Actor Editor > Properties Tab > Select group.
- Choose Behaviors (walk, jump, stomp): Click Behaviors Tab > Click Add Behavior > Choose Behavior > Choose.
- Configure Controls: Use the menu to select keys for moving the actor right and left.
- Create a Scene: A scene is what players see when they play your game. It includes backgrounds, objects, and actors.
To create a new scene, click Scenes in Resources > Click the Outlined Box > Enter a new scene name. To modify scene components, use these tools:
- Background: Click Create.
- Tiles: Click and drag with the 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-like gravity.
- Test Your Game: Don’t be too quick to publish. Test your game thoroughly. Use the “Test Game” button at the top to try it out.
- Add Enhancements: Don’t make your game too similar to others. Add unique challenges, timers, and other features.
- Create a Site Lock: Upload your finished game and use a site lock to prevent it from being played on unauthorized websites. Click Game Settings > Loader > Site Lock.
Creating online games without deep coding knowledge is easier than you might think with Stencyl, which is accessible for free. So, what are you waiting for? Start creating games based on your creativity today!
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