Build your own game development app. Not a bad idea considering the success of many games, and that all you need is some time to learn how to code. Maybe you’d start with Java or HTML5, but it’s also possible to build a simple platformer in JavaScript for example.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through my process for creating an HTML5 mobile web app from scratch. What programming language(s) I chose, how I chose those languages. And why those choices ended up being good ones. The project will be a simple platformer inspired by “Super Mario 64” with the ability to design your own levels using a map editor.
Programming Languages: Javascript, CSS & HTML5 (Node JS for server)
Choosing a programming language is always a difficult decision. There are so many languages to choose from, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. In the end, I decided to use three languages for this project: Javascript, CSS, and HTML5. These languages work well together and allow you to create a relatively complex app while still keeping things simple. Become a master in Python programming language by this hands-on learning Python Course.
Javascript is used for most of the logic in the game – handling user input, moving the player character around, etc. CSS is used for styling and layout, while HTML5 provides all of the basic functionality needed for a web app. (e.g., buttons, text boxes, etc.). Node JS is used on the backend to handle file uploads and serve the level maps made by the user.
- Programming Language: Lua
- Movement Logic (Player & Enemies)
- Collision Detection
- General Game Rules (lives, score, etc.)
- Level Editor Interface
- Cosmetic Effects (Scrolling Backgrounds, Sprites, Particles)
- Sound Effects & Music
Level Editor – HTML5 & JavaScript
In addition to the main app, I also created a level editor using HTML5 and JavaScript. In order to make this as simple as possible for me. I limited the number of objects that could be placed in each level to just ground tiles and objects. This allowed me to avoid having to render more complex objects within the level editor. Which would have complicated matters considerably.
Platformer Engine – HTML5 & JavaScript
Next, I needed a platform engine to handle things like moving platforms and jumping. The first idea was to use sprites, but I soon realized that it would be too difficult for the user. To position sprites accurately using just their mouse cursor. Instead, I ended up implementing individual physics objects for each block of the platform.
A disadvantage is that some types of platforms are slightly trickier to design (e.g., moving platforms). There are ways around this by simply making multiple static platforms. To one another which work together as a single object in the game’s logic.
The next step is to write the code that will read the level file created by the user and create each physics object within it. As well as to detect collisions between those objects. I’m planning on using some of the built-in logic from my platform engine. Since it already handles things like moving platform collision detection.
WebGL & Shaders
Finally, I’ll use WebGL to draw all of this onto a web page directly within your browser. A quick tip for anyone curious about WebGL: learning how to handle shaders is very important if you want anything other than flat surfaces with sharp edges (e.g., bumpy terrain). They really are powerful little programs that can do almost anything you’d want them to do, but they can also be very difficult to write.
Texture Atlas
Once I’ve finished the graphic rendering side of things, I’ll need to create a simple texture atlas that will store all of my textures and allow me to load and unload them as needed. A texture atlas is simply an image made up of smaller images that can then be loaded into OpenGL for rendering purposes. This makes it easy to handle lots of different sprites by separating each one into its own individual image file (usually 32 x 32 pixels) before putting them all together in a larger image. Doing this allows you to easily switch between textures when necessary, such as when changing from ground tiles to moving platforms or objects without having any gaps in between. Simple but effective!
Now that you have a basic understanding of how a game development app is created, it’s time to start thinking about the specific features you would like to see in your own app. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
· Choose your programming language:
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced programmer, there’s a language suitable for creating a mobile game app development company. If you’re just starting out, I would recommend using either Unity3D or Unreal Engine 4 as they both provide an easy-to-use visual interface and allow you to create a relatively complex app while still keeping things simple. For those with more experience, I suggest looking into languages such as C++ or Lua which offer more flexibility and control over the final product.
· Import your own graphics:
One of the great things about creating your own game development app is that you can import your own graphics and create exactly the look and feel you want. This includes everything from the main game screen to the individual level tiles. Be sure to take advantage of this by including a wide range of different graphics in your final product, as it will help to make your app stand out from the rest.
· Create custom levels:
All good games need well-designed levels, and mobile game apps are no exception. Why not let users create their own levels using a simple level editor? This can be done using HTML5 and JavaScript, or even something as simple as a text editor if you’re using a language like Unity3D. This will help to keep users engaged and coming back for more, ensuring that your app remains popular long after its initial release.
· Use physics engines:
A good physics engine is essential for any game that requires realistic movement and interaction between objects. By using a physics engine, you can create games that are more immersive and exciting to play. There are a variety of different engines available, so be sure to research the one that best suits your needs before starting development.
· Add sound effects and music:
Nothing beats the feeling of hearing your own game’s music playing as you take on your friends in multiplayer mode. Adding sound effects and music is a great way to improve the overall gaming experience, and it only takes a small amount of additional programming to get them up and running. By doing this, you’ll make your game development app stand out from the rest by adding an extra layer of excitement for players.
· Integrate social media:
With all the main social networks available today, why not use one or more of them to promote your game? Many people are now using Facebook, Twitter, and other social platforms on their mobile devices, which makes it the perfect way to create awareness about your app among potential players. Social media is also a great way to keep in touch with existing users, allowing you to provide support when necessary and even integrate multiplayer mode so that friends can play against each other online.
There are plenty of different features that you can add to your game development app, so be sure to take the time to think about what would best suit your needs. By including some or all of the ones mentioned above, you’ll be well on your way to creating a product that players will love. So, get started today and see how far you can go!
If you’re interested in learning more about game development, be sure to check out our other articles on the subject. In addition, if you’re looking for a mobile app development company that can help you bring your app to life, be sure to contact us for a free consultation. We would love to hear from you!
