Who doesn’t love playing games? Most people enjoy games because they offer compelling experiences and challenges that pique curiosity and drive engagement. The good news is that creating games isn’t as daunting as it might seem. In fact, you can even make your own games. This guide will explore various ways for beginners to embark on their game development journey, starting from scratch.
Learning how to create simple games from the ground up is both a fun and beneficial process. With the increasing popularity of games playable on smartphones, many individuals are starting to learn how to develop games with their own unique gameplay styles and even sell them.
Consequently, app stores are now brimming with games of diverse genres, available both for free and for purchase. While these games are created using various methods, they often share fundamental concepts.
Before diving into crafting games with your specific gameplay and concept, it’s crucial to learn and understand coding using at least one programming language. This is particularly important if you aim to customize the visual aspects and mechanics of your game.
Programming languages are foundational to game development. Therefore, learning how to create simple games from scratch necessitates grasping coding principles using a programming language.
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. Creating Games with Stencyl
1. Programming Languages Used in Simple Game Development
As previously mentioned, programming languages are paramount in game creation. Developing games for mobile devices can be accomplished using various programming languages.
If you possess proficiency in even a single programming language, you already have a solid foundation for crafting mobile games. However, for more intricate games designed for computers or gaming consoles, a broader and deeper understanding of programming languages is necessary.
Here are several commonly used programming languages in game development:
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JavaScript
JavaScript is a popular choice for game development. Learning how to make games using JavaScript isn’t overly complex. You can create mobile games with your own designs and concepts relatively easily by combining JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
Many individuals today are proficient in JavaScript, meaning they already possess at least one fundamental skill required for creating games with custom designs and concepts.
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Java
Java is another frequently used programming language for game development, particularly for Android mobile games. You can leverage Java to create games with customizable visuals and mechanics using Android Studio.
Video games built with Java are known for their efficiency, speed, and ease of personalization. Essentially, Java is a programming language that is both accessible to learn and user-friendly.
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Swift
Swift is the programming language favored for developing applications and games on iOS mobile devices. While Java dominates the Android platform, Swift is specifically designed for the iOS ecosystem.
Swift is a relatively newer programming language and a popular choice among beginner programmers venturing into game development for the first time on iOS.
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C Programming Languages (C, C#, C++)
The C family of programming languages, including C, C#, and C++, are used for creating more complex and sophisticated applications and games.
Many games played on computers or consoles are built using a combination of C, C#, and C++. These languages are more complex and can be challenging to learn, especially for beginners. However, mastering them is highly recommended if you are serious about pursuing a career in application, software, or game development.
2. Steps to Make Your Own Game From Scratch
Creating your own game from scratch is an engaging and valuable endeavor. Especially given the widespread popularity of mobile gaming on Android, developing and potentially selling your own games can be rewarding.
To create a simple game from the ground up, a fundamental understanding of the process is required. Initially, it might seem challenging, but it’s important to learn the basics yourself rather than outsourcing the project to experts immediately.
Read Also: Ruby Programming Language: Definition, Functions, and Types
Beyond programming languages, which are the cornerstone of game development, here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a simple game from scratch:
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Research and Conceptualize Your Game Idea
The first step is to research and develop the concept for your game. This involves gathering information about the skills needed to bring your game to life and identifying necessary features. Consider the genre and concept of the game you want to create, and the features you want to incorporate. Research and determine what’s needed to make your game a reality.
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Create a Design Document
Once you have a solid concept, the next step is to create a design document. This document outlines your game in brief, covering aspects like the concept, visuals, and the steps required for development. Key elements to consider when creating a design document include:
- Skills: Your existing skills are a valuable asset. Lacking certain skills might necessitate hiring professionals to assist with the design document.
- Language: Consider the programming languages you’ll use, as this will influence the technical specifications of your game development process.
- Game Visuals and Features: Think about the visual style and features of your game. If you plan to modify features in the future, anticipate those needs during the design phase.
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Determine Software
The subsequent step in making your game a reality is choosing the right software. Simple mobile games for Android might not require specialized software. However, more complex games will necessitate specific software, such as design and 3D modeling tools.
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Start Programming
After selecting your software, begin coding. Some complex games might require dedicated game engines, but simpler mobile games might not. Choose your programming language and start building the game you’ve designed.
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Test and Market Your Game
The final steps involve testing and marketing. Thoroughly test your game to identify and eliminate bugs. This testing phase can be time-consuming, requiring significant dedication.
Once you’re confident in your game’s quality, it’s time to market it. Marketing can be simplified by hiring a marketing consultant to handle this aspect. This concludes the basic steps for creating a simple game from scratch.
3. Essential Skills for Game Development
Game development can be both straightforward and challenging, requiring a set of fundamental skills. Here are some essential skills for aspiring game developers:
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Programming Languages
Proficiency in a programming language is crucial. Start with a simpler language if you’re a beginner.
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Software Proficiency
Familiarity with game development software is essential. Once you’ve chosen your software, explore online tutorials to learn its functionalities. Practice by following software tutorials to gain practical experience.
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Framework Knowledge
Frameworks streamline the coding process. They provide pre-built components and structures, allowing you to write code faster, more efficiently, and in a well-organized manner.
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Problem-Solving Skills
Game development is rarely a smooth process. You’ll likely encounter complex challenges and difficulties. Strong problem-solving skills are essential for game developers to effectively address issues and find creative solutions. Good problem-solving abilities help minimize issues and lead to sound, well-considered resolutions.
Each game demands a unique combination of skills and knowledge, depending on its genre and complexity. The most important aspect is to cultivate well-honed skills. With strong skills, even significant challenges can be overcome with effective solutions.
4. Key Considerations in Game Development
To realize your game development aspirations, start by learning how to create simple games first. This allows you to progressively develop your skills and create more complex games later. If you’re interested in creating your own mobile games, consider these key factors before you begin:
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Define Your Game Idea
The first step is to define your game idea. This includes choosing the genre for your game. Game genres are diverse, ranging from VR and action to FPS (first-person shooter), 2D platformers, battle royale, RPGs, and many more.
Read Also: Software Engineering Academy Courses at Coding Studio
After choosing a 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.
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Choose the Right Tools
Before developing Android mobile games, select and install the necessary tools. Android game development relies on specific fundamental tools.
Commonly used tools include the Android SDK (Software Development Kit) and Android Studio IDE (Integrated Development Environment), the official tools for Android application and game development.
These tools are essential, but their effective use requires understanding the Java programming language. They offer advantages like providing access to hardware acceleration via standard OpenGL or Vulkan APIs.
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Graphics Engine Selection
Game development, whether simple or complex, can be simplified by integrating an IDE with a graphics engine. Popular engines like Unity and Unreal are favored by developers, particularly beginners, for their user-friendly interfaces.
A key difference is that Unity uses C# and is well-suited 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 graphically demanding 3D games with intricate visual details. It uses C++ and typically produces games for PCs and consoles.
Unreal Engine’s advanced graphics capabilities require more processing power, meaning games developed with it might need high-specification smartphones for optimal performance.
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Start Game Development
The final step in Android game development is to begin building your game using your design, concept, and chosen tools. This phase requires programming skills and a solid understanding of algorithms. Additionally, prepare other assets like theme music, sound effects, and logos.
While game development might seem complex due to the need for programming languages and coding, don’t be discouraged if you lack coding expertise. You can still create your own games without extensive coding knowledge.
The following are examples of applications and websites that enable game creation without coding:
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AppsGeyser
AppsGeyser is a website that allows you to create games without coding. It offers a straightforward menu interface, making it easy to understand and use to create your own games quickly. To use AppsGeyser, simply visit their website in your computer browser.
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Quickappninja
Quickappninja is another popular platform for creating games without coding. To use it, first register on the Quickappninja website, then select “Create Game Now,” choose your game type, edit your chosen game template, and finally configure the settings for your game.
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Draw Your Game
Draw Your Game offers a unique approach. You can use your hand-drawn images on paper and incorporate them into your game. To use Draw Your Game, you’ll need drawings of your game elements on paper and the Draw Your Game application, downloadable on Android devices. This provides a beginner-friendly way to create Android games with your own creative vision.
These are just a few ways to make Android games for beginners. Experiment and try them out to create games with your desired style and concept.
Hopefully, this information about easy game development for beginners inspires readers to be more creative and hone their skills, proving that making games is an achievable goal. Good luck and happy creating!
5. Creating Games with Stencyl
By now, you understand that creating your own games is enjoyable and insightful, involving object manipulation and logic. Notably, you won’t need to write a single line of code. To create games with Stencyl, here’s what you need:
Read Also: 6 Benefits of Learning Game Development
Plan Your Game
- Start with a basic description: Write a basic outline of your game concept. Having it in writing helps you visualize and stay on track during development.
- Sketch some designs: Create basic sketches of the screens you envision. They don’t need to be detailed, but outlining the elements is helpful.
- Choose a game creation method: Select a method for game creation. Stencyl is a great option as it allows building games using object scripting.
Steps to Use Stencyl
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Install Stencyl on your device: Stencyl is a program for game creation that doesn’t require coding. You’ll use logic-based tools to manipulate game objects.
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Stencyl’s free version: Stencyl is free to use if you plan to publish your game online. The free version includes a Stencyl logo at the beginning of your game.
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Start a new game: When you first open Stencyl, you’ll see recommended games. These can serve as examples, allowing you to examine their mechanics.
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Begin creating your game: Click the box with a dotted line labeled “Click here to create new game.”
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Select a Kit: Kits contain pre-made assets and objects to help you build and run your game faster and easier.
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Choose “Blank Game”: For a fresh start, select “Blank Game.” You can also explore user-created kits for inspiration.
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Enter game information: Before diving into game creation, input basic game information:
- Name: The name of your game.
- Screen Size: Screen size affects the art. If unsure, use 640px width and 480px height.
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Understand the layout: Familiarize yourself with Stencyl’s layout. The Dashboard displays your games and allows access to game resources and settings. Key areas include:
- Scenes: Shows the actual game with all assets.
- Resources: Lists all objects and assets, including actors, backgrounds, fonts, scenes, logic, sounds, and tilesets.
- Settings: Customize game behavior, including controls, gravity, collisions, screen settings, and more.
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Create Actors: Every game needs actors, which are interactive and movable objects. You’ll need actors for every interactive element in your game.
To create actors, click “Actor Types” in the Resources menu. Then choose the actor type you want. Options include:
- Create player and enemy actors: Open Actor Editor > Properties Tab > Choose group.
- Select behaviors (walk, jump, stomp): Click Behaviors Tab > Click Add Behavior > Choose Behavior > Choose.
- Configure controls: Use the menu to select keys for actor movement (right and left).
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Create a Scene: Scenes are the environments players see. They include backgrounds, objects, and actors.
To create a new scene, click Scenes in Resources > Click the Dotted Box > Enter 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’s gravity.
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Test your game: Don’t rush to publish. Always test your game thoroughly. Use the “Test Game” button at the top to playtest.
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Add enhancements: Don’t make your game too similar to existing ones. Add unique challenges, timers, and other features.
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Create Site Lock: Upload your finished game and use 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 surprisingly easy. Stencyl offers a free and accessible way to bring your game ideas to life. Unleash your creativity and start building your game today!
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