How to Create a Short Video Game: A Beginner’s Guide

The process of making a short video game can be broken down into several key steps. This article explores the essential elements required for creating a simple yet engaging game. From the initial concept to the final release, we will cover everything you need to know to start your journey in game development.

Creating the Concept

The first and perhaps most crucial step in making a short video game is to develop a basic storyline or concept. This idea should capture the essence of what you want to explore or achieve within your game. It doesn’t need to be complex, but it should provide a clear direction for the rest of the development process.

Designing Levels, Mechanics, and Controls

With your concept in mind, the next step is to design the levels, mechanics, and controls of your game. This phase involves sketching out the level layout, deciding on the player's actions and how the game will be controlled. The design of your levels should be engaging and challenging, but also ensure a smooth and intuitive gameplay experience.

Development Process

Once you have your design ready, it's time to start the development process. This involves creating assets such as artwork, music, and sounds. Additionally, you will need to program the game with the necessary mechanics and controls. While this can be a technical task, there are many tools and frameworks available that simplify the process for beginners.

Testing and Debugging

Testing and debugging are crucial steps to ensure that your game is both fun and functional. This involves playing through the game and identifying any issues or bugs that need to be fixed. Continuous testing and debugging will help you to refine the gameplay and make any necessary adjustments to improve the overall experience.

Releasing and Marketing the Game

Finally, the game development process culminates in releasing and marketing the game. You can distribute your game through various platforms, such as app stores or your own website. Effective marketing strategies are essential for reaching a wider audience and generating interest in your game.

DIY Game Creation with Existing Tools

Here's a fun personal story of game creation. Recently, my son challenged me to create a game within a 30-minute game making jam. I used an existing engine and crafted a simple platformer in just 55 minutes, complete with sounds and music. The game featured my son collecting his brother's rolling heads like rings from the Sonic series, with a significant reference to his big ass head—faces were blurred out for obvious reasons. It was intense, hilarious, and well received!

Beginner-Friendly Frameworks

If you’re new to game development, consider starting with a specialized framework like LVE2D. This framework uses Lua, a simple and easy-to-learn programming language. Unlike other frameworks that come with a GUI, LVE2D relies entirely on code, making it a great choice for beginners. Here's a simple example of LVE2D code:

function love.draw()    ('HelloWorld!', 400, 300, 800, 'center')end

This code creates an 800 by 600 window and displays the text 'HelloWorld!' at the center of the screen. Pretty simple, right?

Alternatively, you might want to try GameMaker Studio 2, another excellent tool for beginners. It has a drag-and-drop editor, making it ideal for creating 2D games. As you gain confidence, you can convert to code. Some notable games created with GameMaker include Hotline Miami, Spelunky, and Undertale. Shaun Spalding, a game developer, provides excellent tutorials for beginners, such as making a platformer in this playlist.

Embarking on a game development journey can be exciting and rewarding. With these tools and tips, you’re well on your way to creating your own short video game. Happy coding!