Over the course of 3 days, I asked ChatGPT to give me the essentials of indie video game making; It took a full day to gather a list of 40 points, each having its own sub-points explaining everything from genres to time of development, passing through methods of organization and legal advice.
I fed every point individually back through the AI to generate more useful sub-points by using sets of rules and mads amount of prompt editing. That took a second day.
Finally, on the third day, I edited the full list by varying the vocab and removing the sincerely headache-provoking amount of repetition that flooded the piece.
Here is the reworked list, condensed to 10 points, with links and titles added only in this latest iteration of the guide. I do not take credit for making this; the experience alone was very interesting and educational. I enjoyed constructing this list, and I hope it's helpful to some degree.
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1. Game Design and Planning
1.1 Defining the game concept and mechanics
• Determine the core idea and theme of the game.
• Define the overall tone, atmosphere, and player experience.
• Outline the main mechanics, such as the controls (movement, abilities, combat, etc.), and the puzzle-solving.
1.2 Creating a detailed game design document
• Document all aspects of the game in an organized text file. This file must include information about gameplay mechanics, characters, the story, the locations, and the puzzles.
• Describe each level or area of the game with their objectives, challenges, and how the elements will be integrated.
• Define the characters, their roles, backstories, and how they interact with the player and the game world.
1.3 Planning the art style, tone, and atmosphere
• Determine the psychological meaning of the game, and also consider the horror themes and comedy elements that will be present in it. Decide on the art style, the colour palette, the lighting, and the overall aesthetics that will enhance the desired atmosphere.
• Identify the key visual elements that contribute to the player experience.
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2. Game Engine
2.1 Choosing a game engine suitable for the project
• Research the different game engines available, such as Unity and Unreal Engine, considering factors like ease of use, available features, community support, and compatibility with your target platforms (e.g., PC, consoles).
• Take into account the engine's capabilities for 3D graphics, physics simulations, animation systems, and visual effects.
2.2 Learn the basics of the chosen game engine and its scripting language
• Come to known the game engine's interface, tools, and workflow, using tutorials, documentation, and online resources provided by the engine’s community.
• Understand the scripting or programming language associated with the engine (e.g., C# for Unity, C++ for Unreal Engine) and learning the fundamentals of the language to develop gameplay mechanics, implement interactions, and create custom features.
2.3 Utilizing free softwares and resources
• Take advantage of free softwares available within the chosen game engine's ecosystem. Many game engines offer free or open-source assets, plugins, and tools that can assist in various aspects of game development.
• Websites like OpenGameArt.org, Freesound.org and Textures.com can be useful.
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3. 3D Modeling and Animation
3.1 Using 3D modeling softwares
• Determine the 3D modeling software that best suits the project.
• Learn the basics of the chosen software, including its interface, navigation, modeling tools, and workflows.
3.2 Creating characters, environments, and objects
• Start with the conceptualization and sketching of the characters, environments, and objects on paper or digital medium.
• Use the 3D modeling software to transform the concepts into 3D models. Start with simple shapes and gradually add details, refining the models as you progress.
• Pay attention to the topology (the arrangement of vertices, edges, and faces) to ensure optimal deformations during animation.
3.3 Learning animation techniques
• Gain knowledge of animation principles such as timing, spacing, and weight to bring the 3D models to life.
• Explore and memorize the animation tools provided by the chosen software to create keyframe animations, rigging (skeletal setups), and character controls.
3.4 Training and refining
• Continuously reiterate and refine the 3D models and animations. Seek feedback from peers, artists, or game development communities to improve the quality of work.
• Optimize the models and animations for real-time rendering within the game engine. Consider reducing polygon counts, creating LODs (levels of detail), and optimizing texture sizes to improve performance.
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4. Sound Design
4.1 Acquiring and creating sound effects and music
• Determine the specific sound effects and music you need for the game. This may include ambient sounds, GUI effects, and music tracks.
• There are two ways to get sound effects: either by acquiring existing sound effects and music from libraries by exploring free sound libraries, or paid ones like EpidemicSound.com; or alternatively, creating your own using recordings or by collaborating with musicians and sound designers for original content.
4.2 Learning to use sound editing software
• Find the sound editing software that suits the project’s needs and budget. Popular choices include Audacity, Adobe Audition, and Reaper.
• Learn the basic functions of the software, like importing and exporting audio files, editing waveforms, applying effects, and creating seamless loops.
4.3 Manipulating and optimizing audio files
• Trim, fade in/out, and arrange the audio files to create the desired impact.
• Optimize the audio files for in-game implementation by considering factors such as file format, compression, and appropriate volume levels to ensure clarity and consistency.
4.4 Implementing audio in the game engine
• Import the edited audio files into your chosen game engine and integrate them into the game's events, actions, and triggers.
• Set up audio sources, such as speakers or emitters, within the game world to spatially position sounds and create a realistic audio environment.
• Utilize the game engine's audio system to control volume, panning, and playback parameters dynamically based on in-game events or player interactions.
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5. Learning the basics of creating cinematics
5.1 Cinematics and Visual Effects
• Experiment with the cinematic tools and features provided by your chosen game engine. Understand how to create camera animations, trigger events, and shot sequences.
• Learn the principles of cinematography, including framing, camera angles, movement, and pacing. Apply these principles to create visually engaging and impactful cinematics that enhance the storytelling and atmosphere of the game.
5.2 Experimenting with visual effects
• Explore the visual effects capabilities of the chosen game engine. This includes particle systems, post-processing effects, lighting, shaders, and environmental effects.
• Experiment with different visual effects to create the desired mood and tone.
5.3 Creating short cinematics
• Plan and storyboard the key narratives and impactful moments in the game that would benefit from cinematic treatment. Determine the camera angles, character animations, and timing required to convey the desired emotions or story beats.
• Use the cinematic tools and timeline features provided by your game engine to create and sequence the shots, camera movements, and character animations for the cinematics.
• Pay attention to pacing, transitions, and the overall flow of the cinematics to ensure they are engaging and effectively communicate the intended emotions or information.
5.4 Integrating cinematics into the gameplay
• Implement triggers or events in your game that activate the cinematics at the appropriate moments. This could include cutscenes, intros, outros, or interactive sequences that dynamically transition between gameplay and cinematics.
• Ensure a smooth transition between gameplay and cinematics, maintaining a cohesive player experience. Use techniques like fading, camera blending, or seamless transitions to avoid jarring interruptions.
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6. Dialogue and Text
6.1 Implementing a dialogue system
• Determine the style and format of your dialogue system, such as speech bubbles appearing above characters, or with real-time subtitles.
• Set up a dialogue system within your chosen game engine. This may involve creating dialogue UI elements (text display), character portraits, and options for branching dialogue paths.
• Implement functionality for triggering dialogues based on in-game events, interactions, or story progression.
6.2 Creating or acquiring appropriate fonts and visual assets
• Select fonts that match the tone and aesthetics of the game. Consider fonts that are legible, suit the genre, and align with the psychology of the game.
• Create or acquire visual assets for dialogue, such as speech bubble sprites or text box designs. Ensure they integrate well with the overall visual style of your game.
6.3 Writing engaging dialogues
• Develop well-written dialogues that reflect the personalities, motivations, and quirks of the characters. Focus on creating dialogues that develop the story, reveal information, and add depth to the game world.
• Craft dialogue options or choices that allow players to interact with characters or shape the narrative. Consider branching paths or consequences based on player choices to enhance player agency.
6.4 Integrating the dialogues into the game
• Implement dialogue triggers and events within the game world to initiate conversations or display speech bubbles.
• Design systems for managing dialogue flow, tracking progress, and storing dialogue data. This could involve scripting or using a visual scripting tool provided by your game engine.
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7. Inventory System
7.1 Developing an inventory system
• Determine the functionality and scope of your inventory system. Consider what types of items players can collect, how they can interact with these items, and any additional features you want to include, such as item combination or customization.
• Design the user interface for the inventory system, which may include an inventory grid, item descriptions, and interaction options (e.g., using, combining, dropping items).
7.2 Implementing item interactions
• Set up the mechanics for picking up, storing, and using items within the game. Define how players can acquire items, either by finding them in the environment, receiving them as rewards, or purchasing them from in-game shops.
• Establish rules for item interactions, such as inventory limits, stacking limits for consumable items, and any special interactions or effects certain items may have.
7.3 Creating visual assets for inventory items
• Design visual representations or icons for each item in the inventory. Ensure that they are clear, distinguishable, and visually appealing.
• Consider creating variations of item icons to reflect different states or conditions (e.g., a damaged version of a weapon).
7.4 Implementing inventory management
• Develop the functionality for managing the inventory, including adding and removing items, sorting and organizing items, and displaying relevant item information (e.g., name, description, quantity, stats).
• Consider incorporating additional features like item filters, search functionality, or categorization for ease of use.
7.5 Implement puzzles
• Design challenges that require players to find clues; to take advantage of newly acquired skills; or to use specific items or combinations of items to progress through the story.
• Ensure that the inventory system is tightly integrated into the gameplay and progression of the game, creating meaningful interactions and enhancing the overall experience.
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8. Interactive Environment and Puzzles
8.1 Designing an interactive environment
• Plan and design the game environments, taking into account the art style of the game, and the complexity of the game world. Interactive elements may include platforms, objects, switches, doors, or hidden areas that players can interact with.
• Determine the visual cues or indicators that will highlight interactive elements, which will guide players towards points of interest or puzzle components.
8.2 Creating interactive objects and elements
• Design and create interactive objects, ensuring they align with the game's visual style and theme. These objects may serve a variety of purposes, such as puzzle components, tools, or story-related items.
• Implement interactive functionality for objects, allowing players to pick them up, manipulate them, or trigger actions by interacting with them.
8.3 Developing puzzle mechanics
• Design a variety of puzzles that fit within the psychology of the game. Consider the balance between challenge and accessibility, ensuring puzzles are engaging and logical.
• Explore different puzzle types, such as environmental puzzles, logic puzzles, or item-based puzzles. Each puzzle should have clear objectives and potential solutions.
• Determine how puzzles will interact with the game world, characters, and inventory system. Consider how solving a puzzle may impact the narrative.
8.4 Iterating and playtesting the puzzles
• Regularly playtest the puzzles to ensure they provide the intended level of challenge and are still solvable. Gather feedback from professional playtesters to identify any issues, ambiguities, or potential improvements.
• Reiterate and refine puzzles based on player feedback, ensuring they offer a satisfying and rewarding experience. Balance the difficulty curve to maintain player engagement without causing frustration.
8.5 Balancing interactivity with storytelling
• Ensure that the interactive elements and puzzles in the game are integrated into the narrative and world-building, providing a cohesive and immersive experience.
• Strike a balance between interactive elements, puzzles, and storytelling moments. Avoid interrupting the narrative flow or overwhelming players with too many puzzles.
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9. Final Touches
9.1 Polishing, Exportation, and Porting
• Fine-tune and polish the game during the final stages of development. Address any remaining bugs, adjust gameplay mechanics, and optimize performance for a smooth and enjoyable player experience.
• Prepare the game for exportation by packaging all the necessary files, assets, and dependencies. Follow the guidelines provided by your chosen game engine to generate the appropriate build for the target platform (e.g., PC, consoles).
• If considering porting the game to different platforms, research the specific requirements and limitations of each platform. Adapt the game as necessary to ensure optimal performance, controls, and compatibility on each platform.
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10. Final Product
10.1 Publishing, and Marketing
• Research and identify potential game publishing companies that align with your game's genre and target audience. Prepare a compelling pitch, including a concise description, visual assets, and a gameplay trailer.
• Alternatively : explore indie game communities, platforms, and social media channels to self-publish and market your game. Engage with the community, share development updates, and build anticipation for the release.
• Investigate commercial and financial aids available for game development, such as grants, crowdfunding, or publishing deals. Research funding options that suit your project's scope and objectives.
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TL:DR : ChatGPT helped me construct this dense 10-point list that lays out mostly everything there is to know about indie game making. It took 3 days. I am very happy with the final result.
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