Video games are more common than ever before.There are more tutorials, asset collections, game-making software tools, and expert advice now than ever before.There are enough resources for a coder of any level to programming their own game.
Step 1: Look at a game engine.
Few game developers write their own game engine from scratch for their first game.It's a good idea to use a game engine if you want to start programming immediately.There are plenty of hands-on programming opportunities with an engine that includes higher-level tools for altering 3D models.CryENGINE is one of the popular programming heavy examples.
Step 2: Frameworks and other tools should be used.
A framework is a step below a game engine, but still provides a set of tools to save you time and streamline your coding projects.Consider this the minimum level of software to use for your first gaming project, and even then you should feel comfortable introducing yourself as a programmer, or have a deep interest in the behind-the-scenes work on game engines.Depending on the exact framework and/or game engine you are using, you may want to do some of the work in additional, specialized APIs, such as the popular OpenGL for creating 3D graphics.Polycode, Turbulenz, and Mono Game are examples of frameworks created with 2D and 3D games in mind.
Step 3: You can try an IDE.
Complex programming projects are easier to build with an Integrated Development Environment.It will be easier to program a game if it comes with built-in ways to interact with graphics and audio systems.Two examples are Visual Studio and Eclipse.If you're familiar with a language, look for an IDE that's based around it.
Step 4: You can learn a programming language.
Most of the tools above are based in a popular programming language, so following the accompanying tutorials will give you a great start.While you can create a game in almost any sufficiently powerful programming language, the most common languages are C# for all devices, and Java or Objective C for mobile devices.If you want to eventually get hired by an existing game studio, these are good options, but plenty of independent games are created using Python, Ruby, or Javascript.
Step 5: You have to create a plan for the game.
You should flesh out the concept of the game as much as you can before you start.You'll have to rewrite a lot of work if you start programming before the concept is clear.A solid plan will keep these events to a minimum.This is a good place to start the planning for the most experimental games.In order to progress, you must discover more about the plot and characters, make decisions that affect the storyline, explore new areas, or solve harder and harder puzzles.
Step 6: Take your art assets.
You will need to collect or create all of the models for your game.There are quite a few collections of free game assets.You can create your own art if you don't have an artist to help you.
Step 7: You should script the game.
The script tells the engine what to do.If you used an open source engine, chances are that it has a script language that you can use.You will have to create your own language if you build your engine.You'll need a constantly running game loop that checks for user input, processes the result, calculates what needs to be displayed, and sends this to the graphics card.It should run at least 30 times per second.The active listener script checks for events and responds when they occur.One script can make a doorway non-collidable by running an "open" animation and watching a player interact with a door.The "blow apart" animation can be run instead of the weapon hitbox animation.
Step 8: Individual levels created.
Some skills unrelated to programming will be tested when level design involves a "level 1," an area the player can explore, or the next round of a fighting game.The basic guideline for genres that involve traveling through environments is to create the basic outline of the area.The player will most often go through the area on the basic path.Along this path, add challenges and benefits.For a more relaxed atmosphere, place them close together or farther apart.Add graphical elements.Keep the side paths and less important areas dim by placing light sources along the main path.Match the style and setting.A suspenseful horror game thrives on stretches of empty exploration.While combat that requires careful planning can distract the player from the emotional atmosphere, a never-ending barrage of enemies can overwhelm them.
Step 9: Test your skills.
You will be able to see what your hard work has turned into.You should test each level while you are polishing it.You should try to play the game in ways you didn't intend, such as playing through more difficult areas first.Ask for as much feedback as possible, and find playtesters to get fresh eyes on the game.If it's basic information that hasn't been added to the game, then watch someone play.The player getting stuck is a sign that you need to include more guidance.Once the game is complete, try to find people to play with.Friends are more optimistic, which is great for encouragement, but not helpful for predicting how players will react.
Step 10: Take the next step
If you finish the project, you may want to release it for free or put it up for sale, but make sure you read the terms and conditions for any game engines or software you used.Whether or not you complete the game as you planned, you may want to "cannibalize" some assets and ideas for a different or more ambitious project, or take the lessons you learned and start all over again!