Making a video game is a big undertaking, but it can also be a lot of fun and very rewarding. There are many different ways to make a game, and the best approach for you will depend on your goals, experience, and resources. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Choose a game engine: A game engine is a software platform that provides the tools and technologies you will use to build your game. Some popular game engines include Unity, Unreal Engine, and GameMaker. Each engine has its own strengths and weaknesses, so you should do some research to find the one that best fits your needs.
- Learn the basics: Before you start building your game, it’s a good idea to learn the fundamentals of game design and programming. You can find a lot of resources online to help you get started, including tutorials, courses, and books.
- Set up a development environment: Depending on the game engine you choose, you will need to install and set up the necessary software on your computer. This will typically include a programming language, a code editor, and any other tools or libraries that are required.
- Start small: Don’t try to build a fully-featured game right away. Instead, start with a simple prototype or a single gameplay mechanic and build from there. This will help you learn the tools and get a feel for the development process without overwhelming yourself.
- Keep learning: Making a game is a complex and iterative process, and there is always more to learn. As you work on your game, be sure to take the time to study new techniques and technologies, and seek out feedback and guidance from others in the game development community.
What to consider when choosing a game engine
Choosing a game engine is an important decision for any game developer, as it will impact the development process and the end result of your game. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a game engine:
- Compatibility: Make sure the game engine is compatible with the platform(s) you want to target, such as PC, mobile, or console. Some game engines are more versatile than others and can support multiple platforms, while others are more specialized and may only support a single platform.
- Programming language: Consider the programming language(s) supported by the game engine and whether you are comfortable using them. Some game engines, such as Unity, use C#, while others, such as Unreal Engine, use C++.
- Features and tools: Different game engines offer different sets of features and tools. Some engines may be more suited to certain types of games, such as first-person shooters or role-playing games, while others may be more general purpose. Consider the features and tools that are important to your project and make sure the engine you choose has them.
- Cost: Some game engines are free to use, while others have licensing fees or require you to purchase additional tools or assets. Consider your budget and make sure the game engine you choose is feasible for your project.
- Community and support: A strong community of developers and active support from the game engine creators can be very helpful when you are learning and developing your game. Consider the size and activity of the community and the level of support offered by the game engine creators.
By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a game engine that is well-suited to your project and your needs as a developer.
Pros and cons comparison Unity and Unreal Engine
Unity:
Pros:
- Widely used and well-supported, with a large community of developers
- Supports a wide range of platforms, including PC, mobile, console, and VR/AR
- Has a user-friendly editor and a large asset store with a wide variety of tools, assets, and services
- Offers a free personal version, with paid licenses available for more advanced features and support
Cons:
- The C# programming language can be slower than C++, which is used by Unreal Engine
- May have a steeper learning curve for some users, especially for those unfamiliar with programming
Unreal Engine:
Pros:
- Offers high-quality graphics and a wide range of advanced features, such as real-time lighting and physics
- Uses the C++ programming language, which can be faster and more powerful than C#
- Has a strong focus on performance and optimization
- Offers a free license for all features, with a 5% royalty on gross revenue for commercial projects
Cons:
- May have a steeper learning curve for some users, especially for those unfamiliar with programming or C++
- May require more powerful hardware to run effectively
- Has a smaller community of developers compared to Unity, which can make it harder to find answers to problems or get support.
Both Unity and Unreal Engine are powerful and feature-rich game engines with their own strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your goals, experience, and resources, as well as the specific needs of your project.