In this unit, we’ve comprehensively explored the topic of platform-based coding in game development. From the basics to publishing and promotion, we’ve covered a variety of essential areas for any video game developer. Here is a summary of the main points addressed in each section:
We define and explain the purpose of coding on platforms and its relevance in the video game industry, underscoring its significant impact on the development and distribution of modern games.
Tools and Game Engines:
Unity: Installation, configuration, interface, and key components.
Unreal Engine: Installation, configuration, interface and key components.
Godot: Installation, configuration, interface and key components.
Construct: Installation, configuration, interface, and key components.
Fundamentals of Programming in Video Games:
Basic concepts: Variables, data types, control structures, functions, and methods.
Programming paradigms: Object-oriented programming and component-based programming.
Scripting on specific platforms:
Unity and C#: Basic structure of a C# script, component lifecycle, event management, and user input.
Unreal Engine and Blueprints/C++: Introduction to Blueprints, C++ scripting for Unreal, interaction between Blueprints and C++.
Godot and GDScript: Basic structure of a script in GDScript, scenes and nodes in Godot, signal and event management.
Construct and Event Sheets: Event Sheets basics, event and action logic, behavior and effect management.
Video Game Component Development:
Game mechanics: Motion and physics, collisions and crash detection.
User interaction: Input and control systems, user interfaces (UIs), and HUDs.
Basic artificial intelligence: NPC behaviors, pathfinding, and navigation.
Resource Integration:
Import and management of assets: 3D models, sprites, textures and materials.
Implementation of sound effects and music.
Animations: Creation and use of animations, animation systems and blend trees.
Testing and Debugging:
Testing techniques in video games: Unit, integration and gameplay tests.
Debugging tools in game engines: Debugging in Unity, Unreal Engine, and Godot.
Performance optimization: Graphical and script/game logic optimization.
Publication and Distribution:
Preparing the game for release.
Digital distribution platforms: Steam, Itch.io, Google Play Store, Apple App Store.
Marketing and promotion strategies.
Practical Projects:
Creating a video game project from scratch.
Presentation and evaluation of projects.
Feedback and improvement.
Platform coding is an essential skill in game development. Through this unit, students have gained practical knowledge and skills that will enable them to select and use game engines, write scripts in various languages, develop game mechanics, integrate resources, perform testing and debugging, and prepare their games for publication and distribution.
Recommendations for Deepening
Online courses and tutorials: Pluralsight, Coursera, and Udemy offer in-depth courses on game engines and video game programming.
Specialized books: “Game Engine Architecture” by Jason Gregory and “Introduction to Game Development” by Steve Rabin are excellent resources.
Forums and Communities: Participating in communities like the Unity Forum, Unreal Engine Community, and Godot Forums can provide support and new ideas.
Personal projects: Creating and completing personal projects will help consolidate learning and develop a professional portfolio.
Conferences and events: Attend conferences such as the Game Developers Conference (GDC) and local game development events.
Learn more following the Games4Green PLE (Personal Learning Environment) to know more about videogame creating by clicking here.
Learn more about the main online video game sales platforms and review video games by clicking here