Surely every gamer at least once in his life thought about creating his own game project. Moreover, many even begin to make various body movements in this area. But as a rule, after a week or two, a young game dev, faced with certain problems, like an elementary lack of knowledge, forgets about his dream and sits down the next shooter. What is the matter? Is game programming really such a laborious and incomprehensible process for ordinary mortals? You can find the answer to this question in this article.
Game development
We can say with confidence that game programming is one of the most difficult tasks in the IT field. The fact is that in order to create a good project you need to have a fairly extensive amount of knowledge. For example, you need to know several programming languages, be able to write simple and understandable code in which there is nothing superfluous, etc. It is for this reason that large game development teams are involved in the development of games, which consist of hundreds of specialists in various fields.
Of course, there are exceptions to the rule. For example, the notorious programmer Marcus "Notch" Persson single-handedly created "Minecraft" - a game that is one of the most profitable projects in the last 10 years. But in order to develop something like this, you need to be a real ace in your field and have vast experience.
Making games. Programming
Theoretically, everyone can start creating masterpieces of the computer world. But as you can understand, programming games is very difficult. However, almost anyone can become a game dev. The most important condition is a lot of free time and just titanic perseverance. Suppose we have this. What to do next?
First of all, you need to master at least some of the most popular programming languages. Without this, creating a quality game is unlikely to succeed. Why several languages? Is one not enough? The fact is that each programming language has its own clear scope. Below we will consider the most popular languages and their application in game programming.
Languages
Perhaps the most universal language in terms of game programming is C ++. Most modern games and engines for them are written on it. What is the peculiarity of this language? Perhaps one of the main advantages of C ++ is the huge number of comprehensive libraries. Thanks to this, through this language, you can write anything: from a small indie toy to a large AAA class project.
But unfortunately, C ++ is very difficult to learn. A beginner is unlikely to be able to figure out these wilds. For this reason, it is better to start your acquaintance with the world of programming with something simpler.
Python is probably the best choice for a beginner game dev. Firstly, the syntax of the language is quite simple. In order to start programming on Python, just read the tutorial and have a native level of English. Secondly, the capabilities of this programming language are quite wide. Of course, Python cannot keep up with C ++ in terms of functionality. Nevertheless, through Python, you can create quite decent software (including the game). For example, games such as Battlefield (2005), Civilization 4, Sims 4 and many other projects that became real hits were written on Python.
Java is another challenger that is definitely worth a look. Perhaps the main advantage of this language is its complete cross-platform. This means that software written using Java is supported by all operating systems (Windows, Linux, Android, etc.). This allows you to quickly remake the game for any platform. In addition, Java gives the programmer a lot of opportunities. For examples, you do not need to go far. The aforementioned Minecraft was written specifically in Java.
Creating games without programming
However, what if there is no time to learn languages, but still want to write your own game? Here the so-called game designers come to the rescue. What it is? You can find the answer below.
Game Designer is a special program that combines an integrated development environment and an engine. Simply put, this is software with which you can make your games without programming. If you have just started your gamedev path, then game designers are just what you need. With their help, you can understand how the development process is going, what you should pay attention to, and notice other important aspects for yourself.
Nevertheless, such programs have disadvantages. Game designers have a rather meager functionality. Such programs impose restrictions on the user in terms of genre, graphics, mechanics, etc. It is for this reason that creating a project worthy of attention with the help of a designer is unlikely to succeed.
Games Creation Software
As you could understand, the designers are not designed to create large projects. Such programs are necessary in order to give the young game dev first experience in terms of game development. In this part of the article we will look at the most popular game programming programs that will help beginners take their first steps in a gamedev environment.
Perhaps the most famous game development program is Game Maker. It is designed to create two-dimensional projects. You can make games without programming skills. Instead of lines of code, the user is provided with a set of ready-made actions. All you need to do is create objects and define the rules for interaction between them. It is also worth noting that you can draw sprites directly in Game Maker without the use of extraneous programs. Therefore, software is completely self-sufficient. Moreover, Game Maker will not offend advanced users who have programming skills. After all, the program has the ability to add your source code. Using Game Maker, you can create games with a top view (RPG, tactical shooter, etc.) and side view (platformer).
Construct 2 is another constructor for developing 2D games. Perhaps the main feature of this program is multi-platform. Using "Construct" you can create games for iOS, Android, Windows, Web, etc. In terms of functionality, Construct 2 is in no way inferior to the same Game Maker.
Conclusion
Programming games is a very time-consuming process that lasts for months, or even years. Therefore, if you want to become a professional game dev, then you need to develop in yourself such qualities as patience and willpower.