How to Make a Game

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Get your game face on! When it comes to hours of endless entertainment, nothing beats a good game. Channel your inner techie by developing a video game or app for your phone that you and your friends can play, or brainstorm a fun activity for a special occasion, like a party or road trip.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Designing a Video Game

PDF download Download Article
  1. Choosing a theme will narrow your focus when planning and designing the game. To pick a genre, consider what types of games you like to play, what the goal or mission of the game will be, and what you want the user experience to be like.
    • For example, if you like games you can play with a group of people, you might make a multiplayer online role-playing game.

    Choosing a Video Game Genre

    If you're an adrenaline junkie, pick an action or adventure game.

    If you love solving brainteasers and mysteries, go for a strategy or puzzle game.

    If you like getting into character, make a role-playing game, like Dungeons & Dragons .

    If you prefer a little gore or violence, try a first-person shooter game.

  2. The most important part of a video game is telling a story that captures the interest of the player. Brainstorm the overarching problem that players are trying to solve and build off of that. Make sure there are multiple ways to “win” the game to provide more entertainment for the players. [1]
    • For example, if you want the goal of the game to be finding a pot of gold, create characters like an evil leprechaun who’s trying to protect the pot and a storyline of events that might happen throughout the player’s journey, like the appearance of a magical rainbow.
    Advertisement
  3. You don’t want the game to end as soon as a player accomplishes the first goal. Keep the game going by incorporating new challenges throughout the story, along with different levels that players can unlock as they go along. [2]
    • Having a beginner’s level along with more advanced levels also means more people can play your game. It won’t exclude any players.
    • You can create different levels for the same goal, or make levels get progressively harder throughout the story.
    • For example, you can have a beginner’s option and an advanced option for trying to slay the evil leprechaun. Or you can make the first step, like finding the leprechaun, easier, then make the next step, like getting inside his lair, a little more difficult, and so on.
  4. Before you jump into coding and development, you need to have a clearly defined plan and vision for how your game will run and what it will look like. Create a storyboard by sketching out the major scenes of your game in each frame, along with details on what will happen in that scene. Place the images in order of occurrence in the game. [3]
    • Include details like what actions the characters will take in each scene, what the background should look like, whether there will be any special effects or sounds, etc.
    • For instance, using the leprechaun example, 1 frame might be searching the woods for the leprechaun’s cave. The storyboard would have a description of the woods, what animals or elements the character might run into, and whether the character can run, jump, or even swing from the trees.
    • The more in-depth your storyboard is, the easier the development stage will be, since you’ll be more prepared.
  5. You don’t have to be able to code to create a video game. There are “drag and drop” programs available where you simply insert your storyline, characters, actions, rewards, etc., and the software writes the code for you. This allows you to focus on the storytelling and concept, rather than the technical details and coding.
    • GameMaker Studio and Unity 3D are 2 of the most popular programs for video game development.
    • Choose a free version of one of these programs if you’re on a budget. Keep in mind that the free versions will have limited options and features.
  6. Coding allows you complete freedom as far as customization and unique features go. You can use online classes or tutorials to teach yourself the basics to start building your game. [4]
    • Some of the common programming languages used in designing games are JavaScript, HTML5, ActionScript 3, C++, or Python.
    • After you master the basics, learn the application programming interface (API) for your coding language. This basically is a set of instructions for how your code will interact with other software or programs.
    • Open-source game development programs also provide extra support and sample code for creating games.
    • For example, if you want your character to climb the wall of the leprechaun’s cave, you can find a pre-made coding sequence for a climbing motion, then tweak it to fit your game.
  7. Think of this like a rough draft of your game. Don’t stress over tiny details, like what color the earrings your character is wearing are. Instead, work on building the main components of the game, like what happens when a player catches the leprechaun or how many pots of gold they have to find to advance to the next level.
    • Keep your prototype as simple as possible if you’re a beginner. You can always build on it later.
    • Be open to new ideas that come to you as you build your game and also be willing to let go of things you thought would work but don’t.
  8. Once you’ve built a prototype of your game, it’s time to actually play it to see how it works. Go through each part and level thoroughly, checking all of the different features and player pathways. If something doesn’t run smoothly or if you have ideas for improvement, jot them down so you can go back later and correct them. [5]
    • You can also have your friends and family to playtest the game. Ask them for honest feedback about their experience.
    • Don’t just test for functionality. Test for how fun the game is, too! If it’s boring or slow, brainstorm ways to make it more exciting, like by adding more challenges or special effects.
    • You can do as many rounds of playtesting as necessary until you’re satisfied with your finished game.
    9. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Developing a Mobile Game

PDF download Download Article
  1. The key to a successful mobile game is one that’s easy to understand and play, yet interesting and challenging enough to keep the user coming back. Outline a basic idea or story, then brainstorm how to make it “never-ending,” like by adding different levels, challenges, and goals. [6]
    • For example, if your game is going to be shooting down stray meteorites, incorporate harder levels where the meteorites start falling faster, or set a goal for the player where they can unlock a new launcher if they shoot 15 meteorites in 5 seconds.
    • Think about the games that are most popular or that you like the most when you’re brainstorming. What do you like about them? How can you use the best aspects in your own game?
  2. The 2 primary platforms are either iOS (which is what iPhones use) or Android. While similar in some ways, each platform differs in how much freedom you have as a developer along with how much money you’ll spend or make. For instance, Android allows you more flexibility with custom functions and features because it’s an open-source platform. [7]
    • iOS tends to be easier to develop apps on since its programming language (Swift) is less involved than Android’s (Java).
    • You’ll have a better chance of making more money if you use iOS. The App Store generates almost double the revenue of Android’s equivalent, which is Google Play. [8]
    • You can build for both iOS and Android, but it will be more expensive since each one has its own coding structure and requirements.
    • If you want to use both platforms, it’s best to start with just one since you have limited time and resources. Once you develop the game for that platform, you can convert it to be compatible with the other.
  3. Once you have your concept, figure out how you want it to look and run. Vibrant, bold graphics tend to look best on small smartphone or tablet screens. You’ll also want to take advantage of all the fun functions of mobile devices, like tilting the phone to steer a car or swiping with your finger to swing a sword. [9]
    • Add sound effects to enhance the experience for the user. You can include anything from fun background music to the sound of a cheering crowd whenever the player scores a goal, for instance.
    • You can design your graphics with software like Photoshop, or hire a graphic designer if you want more professional-looking images.
    • Check your platform’s design requirements first. You can find the list on either Google Play or the App Store.
  4. Beginners can use a “drag and drop” program to create your game without actually having to code anything. And if you do know how to code, use open-source framework, like Phaser, which can provide support, plugins, and blueprints for building your game. [10]
    • One of the most popular game development programs is GameSalad, which lets you build fully functioning 2D games without writing a single line of code.
    • While “drag and drop” programs are easy and convenient, they’ll also limit how much customization and control you have.
    • Consider outsourcing the development step to make your life easier if you’re not an experienced coder or developer. It’s worth the extra cost to have a professionally-designed product.
  5. The top way to make money from your app is by charging a fee to download it or a monthly subscription rate. But if you want to offer a free game, you can still monetize it by adding things like in-app purchases, premium content, or ads. [11]
    • You can try offering what’s known as a “freemium” app. People can download your gaming app for free, but then pay for more advanced features or a better experience.
    • In-app purchases might include buying coins so your character can have new clothes, for example, or paying to play the game without ads.
    • There are different ad services you can choose from. For instance, a popular option for Android apps is Google AdMob.
    • Be careful not to overdo it with ads. You don’t want to frustrate players or disrupt their gaming experience.
  6. If you developed your game for iOS, you’ll use the App Store. If you used Android, you’ll upload to Google Play. The companies will review your game and determine if it’s acceptable to be included in their app stores.
    • Getting your game approved by Google is much easier than by Apple. Once you submit to Google Play, your game could be live in just a few hours.
    • To upload an app on Google Play, you have to sign up for a Google Play Developer account which costs $25.
    • To submit an app to Apple, you need to enroll in the iOS Developer Program, which is $99 a year.
    • If your game isn’t accepted, make any necessary changes based on the feedback you receive, then re-submit as many times as you’d like.
    • You can appeal a rejection to Apple’s App Review Board if you feel it was unfair.
    7. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Creating Other Types of Games

PDF download Download Article
  1. The sky’s the limit when it comes to creating a board game. Consider how many players you want to have, what the objective and rules will be, and how players can win the game. And feel free to get creative with decorating the board and game pieces themselves.
    • If you need some inspiration, incorporate elements from your favorite board games. For example, if you love Monopoly, include a buying and selling element in your own game.
    • Use any materials you’d like to construct the physical game. The board could be made of cardboard, wood, or even fabric, for example.
    • You can also repurpose an old board game. Cover the board with paper and decorate it yourself and use the pawns for your new game, too.
    EXPERT TIP

    Ashton Wu

    Board Game Expert
    Ashton Wu is a Board Game expert at Shelfside. After delving into the Yugioh tournament community while growing up, Ashton launched himself into the board gaming community in 2014 and went into reviewing board games as a career full-time in 2019. His YouTube channel Shelfside has over 35K subscribers and over 4 million views, assisted by written reviews on the Shelfside website and BoardGameGeek.com. He also consults with gaming companies to build high-quality gaming products. Ashton is a tournament commentator, board game playthrough director, and host of the Shelfside Podcast, where he talks about board games with his business partner, Daniel. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics at the University of California, Santa Barbara, in addition to the Technology Management Certificate.
    Ashton Wu
    Board Game Expert

    Create a board game that is quick to set up, easy to play, and moves fast. Shorter games are usually more fun. Board game experts are seeing a trend towards shorter, streamlined games. A game with better flow, speed, and ease of movement will be much more enjoyable, so focus on mechanics that prevent dragging and make each turn impactful.

  2. Getting your guests engaged in a game is a great way to fill any potential downtime during a party. Think about the demographic of your guests. If they’re a range of ages and interests, create a game that everyone can play and that doesn’t require a specific skill or athletic ability, for instance. [12]
    • Match the game to the theme of the party. For example, if it’s an undersea party, make a play on “pin the tail on the donkey” with “pin the fin on the mermaid” instead.
    • If your guests enjoy alcoholic beverages, consider starting a drinking game. For instance, have everyone try to balance a spoon on their nose. Whenever your spoon drops, you have to take a drink.
  3. Not only will a fun car game help pass the time on a 10-hour trip if you’re the passenger, it will also help keep you awake if you’re the driver. Come up with an activity that either doesn’t use any props or that involves the sights and scenery you’re passing, so even the driver can play along. [13]
    • For example, look for every letter in the alphabet on signs as you drive by. Start with the “A” you saw on the Taco Bell sign, then the “B” on “Exit 4B,” and so on.
    • Avoid games where you have to write or read or that take up a lot of space. Those are difficult to play in the car.
  4. Card games are a great, on-the-go alternative to bulky board games. Come up with one that just requires 1 deck of cards so you don’t need to carry around any extra props. For instance, brainstorm a variation of a classic game like Go Fish or Solitaire. [14]
    • Try to keep the rules as simple as possible. When card games get too complicated or involved, they can be frustrating and not as fun.
    • You can also create a game where you can play it by yourself with 1 deck, for instance, or add a second deck for multiple players. That way you can really play anytime, anywhere!
    5. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Which items do I need to create a football game?
    Community Answer
    A green color cotton cloth with all the markings of the game, a tiny metal ball, or any tiny ball you wish, and you can play it using your fingers.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 30 Helpful 13
  • Question
    Does Google play or the app store agreement charge after uploading a game I've made?
    Community Answer
    Google Play charges once to make an account and never again. The App Store charges $99 a year, and nothing else.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 10 Helpful 11
  • Question
    What type of software is used to create online multiplayer games?
    Community Answer
    SpatialOS is the type of software for developing and operating online multiplayer games, using any engine.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 6 Helpful 9
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Show More Tips
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Make a Prize Wheel
      How to
      Create a Jeopardy Game
      How to
      Create a Chinese Finger Trap
      How to
      Make Your Own Family Feud Game at Home
      How to
      Create a Racing Game in Scratch
      How to
      Make Your Own Card Game
      How to
      Create a Role Playing Game on Paper
      How to
      Make Cracked Marbles
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://kotaku.com/5979539/a-beginners-guide-to-making-your-first-video-game
      2. ↑ https://www.gamedesigning.org/gaming/game-ideas/
      3. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/programming/programming-games/designing-video-games/
      4. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidewalt/2011/03/01/want-to-be-a-game-designer-learn-to-code/
      5. ↑ https://www.gamedesigning.org/video-game-tester/
      6. ↑ https://www.techtimes.com/articles/66501/20150709/gaming-on%C2%AD-%C2%ADgo-what-makes-good-mobile-game.htm
      7. ↑ https://themanifest.com/app-development/android-vs-ios-which-platform-build-your-app-first
      8. ↑ https://themanifest.com/app-development/android-vs-ios-which-platform-build-your-app-first
      9. ↑ https://www.cultofmac.com/68712/become-an-iphone-game-developer-in-10-steps-how-to/
      1. ↑ https://www.cultofmac.com/68712/become-an-iphone-game-developer-in-10-steps-how-to/
      2. ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/243928
      3. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/10-always-entertaining-party-games-131753
      4. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/parenting/g20087132/road-trip-games/
      5. ↑ https://medium.com/@hello_16463/how-to-design-and-create-a-card-game-54b5caa89418

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To make a video game, start by downloading a game creation program, like GameMaker Studio or Unity 3D, which will create the game coding for you. Then, come up with a storyline that gives players choices to make, such as a hunt for a treasure that you can get to from multiply paths. Additionally, create characters for your game, including the player and some villains. Once you've added these elements, playtest the game a few times and look for ways to make it more interesting, exciting, and functional. For tips on how to create a game app for mobile devices, read on!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 94,208 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement