How to make a 3D computer game

Designing a Computer game

It does not matter whether you are looking for a career in game development industry or just want to get deep to the mind of game developers, it is good to know that the whole process is much complicated than it appears. If you are the type of person who can create great universes from the depths of their enchanted minds, then this is an opportunity for you.

You will have numerous options to work with if you possess some knowledge of programming. These skills and the knowledge will make the entire process of game design approachable since you will be able to use concepts like perfect imbalance, gamification, the uncanny valley, Skinner box and much more.

Using game engines has more benefits than programming the whole game yourself. With game engines, you will have the coding done for you so that you only focus on the layout, level, and content. In more complex games, the engines will ensure that lighting is done for you apart from memory management and asset loading. Game engines are cross-platform, and it will make the work appear so simplified.

Free Game Engines

A number of powerful game engines have been introduced to the public over the past few years. This has inspired the aspiring developers to create the games they have always had in their minds. Some of the most popular game engines are Unity, CRYENGINE  and Unreal Engine 4.

Unity game engine offers a wide array of easy to grasp features and other variety of assets that can be purchased or downloaded. Unity has different licensing packages like Free version and Pro version that goes for $35 or $125 per month.

Unreal Engine 4 just stopped charging $19 per month to being completely Free with zero subscription fees. CRYENGINE  on the hand has a bit different pricing model. You can get CRYENGINE for Free but you will have to pay $50 every month to access CRYENGINE training and other services.

(Note - Above pricing and licencing packages can be changed).

Popular games that have been designed by these popular engines are Far Cry and Crysis 3 by cryENGINE. Unity has created popular ones like Torment: Tides of Numenera, while Unreal Engine 4 brought Gears Of War 4.

Use your own 3d models

On usage, there are 3D modeling software's that can help especially if you choose to craft your 3D models without applying assets that have been already laid down. This software includes Blender(Free), Maya or 3DS Max.

When creating the game, ensure that you select a concept that you want to follow. Make sure you list down all the ideas you have for what your game will appear like.

The general appearance of the game, the core gameplay, and mood of the game should be well put down before you carry on.

If it is your first time to use the game making engines, then make you spend some reasonable period playing around with the tool. This you can only do by playing around with backgrounds, moving characters and objects. The core gameplay should be designed only if there is a need. This is because it can involve the creation of some complex systems especially to those using the tool for the first time.

For your first game, target a few level. You can create three to five short levels with an option of expanding them afterward. For a platformer, faster enemies or moving platforms are essential. A puzzle should use a single type of puzzle for the first time while an action game can introduce enemies or just one strong enemy.

Do not forget to set up the median and long time goals in your game. This may include, jumping or shooting and getting coins or such like advances.

Test carefully all the levels of your game and make sure everything is right. Use OpenGL to help you polish some graphics in your 3D computer game.

As soon as you ensure that all audio and visuals are up to your standards, then you can release your game. And that's how simple making a computer 3D game is. Best of luck as you try it.