Get Started in Indie Game Development: 6 Essential Steps

With more tools and resources available than ever, indie game developers can create games that were once unimaginable. However, the abundance of options can be overwhelming. To guide you, here’s a process that has worked for me, covering how to select the right library or framework and what matters for beginner developers.

1. Pick a (Small) Idea

Start with a simple idea to master the basics of game development, just as you would begin with easy songs when learning the piano.

2. Pick an Engine or Framework

Choose an engine like Unity or Godot for their graphical interfaces if you lack programming experience. For programmers, consider using a familiar game framework.

3. Create the Prototype

Focus on developing a minimum viable product (MVP) with core mechanics, using basic placeholders for art and sound.

4. Find Assets

Incorporate art and sound using free online resources to enhance your game.

5. Turn it into a Complete Game

Ensure your game has a full loop, including winning and losing conditions, to make it feel complete and testable.

6. Start Something New!

Build on your experience by continually starting new projects, gradually tackling more complex ideas.

For more detailed guidance, refer to the original article here.