Q: How do I build my dream game? A: ...

So you want to know how you build your dream game in Unity.

Phase 0: Prototype Your Dream Game

1. Start Up Unity (briefly look through all the main topics covered in the Learn section).
2. Just using Cubes and Unity Primitives block out your dream games first level*
3. Write or find a controller in the assets available and using a capsule or basic sprite for your main character.*
4. Playtest your controller and camera over the level.*
5. Using basic primitives or sprites add NPC's e.g. Enemies to the level*
6. Using the Navmesh system tech the NPC's to navigate the level*
7. Now you will probably if you have not already need to add in abilities and behaviours e.g. Jumping / Shooting / Attack / Defence*
8. By now you should have a playable prototype.*

* Look in the Learn section for any problems you hit early on if not addressed there search the forums if no answers there ask on the forum in the appropriate section.

Phase 1: Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder.

1. You will be tempted to start adding art and sfx about now, don't just yet.
2. Do you have all of your dream games mechanics in yet? Add them.
3. Do you have all of the characters in yet e.g. Big Boss? Add them.
4. Now you should be getting an idea of how much work there is in making your dream game even without FX/Artwork/Sound/Music/Animation. Do you want to continue making your dream game or make something simpler? If yes continue.
5. Make sure you have all of the elements you want in your game and at least the first few levels, before continuing.

Phase 2: Who needs an artist anyway!

1. Now start adding in art, sound and music to your game, but just for the first level.
2. Is it pulling together or falling apart? About here is where you dream and reality are either coming together and merging into something new and amazing or falling apart as the gap between your skills and abilities and dreams are made apparent. Persevere and make it the best you can.
3. Test and Adjust based on your experience with the first level and how long it took and assess how long it will take to complete your game, then work through it, you're in a marathon not a sprint.
4. About now you should have completed your first game. It should have a main menu / options / game levels and game win / lose states.

Phase 3: Tada!

1. Present your amazing dream game to the world, but don't expect anyone to notice!
2. Try and get some feedback and work on improving your game further.
3. Good Luck.

What you want to make a multiplayer massive universe space war game? That's next week...

 

Yes.

Damnit, you got me!