Steps To Create A "Big" Game /Solo ?
Imagine you have an idea for a computer game. You really want to create that game and start downloading an engine and some tools. Now you are sitting in front of the content creation suite. There is a white plane staring at you, waiting to be filled by whatever comes to mind.
What would be your rough steps to create your game? How would you decide what stuff to integrate for the first feedback-round (pre-alpha-demo + YoutTube channel (YT))?
As I am currently in that exact situation, I came up with multiple possibilities, however I am a bit indecisive, as this is my first big game. I think something along those lines would work out for me:
- Implement basic character movement and attach it to the camera
- Implement basic physics, so jumps and the like are possible
- Add placeholder assets (for example cubes)
- Implement a MVP core mechanic (e.g. swing sword -> damage to object)
- Tease on YT
- Goto step 4 until you need a bit "more"
- Start adding assets, terrain and shaders
- Flesh out menus
- Upload demo + show on YT
- Goto step 7 until you need a bit "more"
- Add AI and more effects (like blood, magic particles, etc.)
- Work on game mechanics, add assets and effects, improve stuff which is not good enough
- Don't forget to regularly upload the latest build and update your YT channel
It's very rough (intentionally), however that might be the path I will take as a solo developer.
Remark: I take quite a bit of inspiration from Yandere-Dev (website)