So You Want to be a Game Developer? Tips for Coders

[Darkness665]

Well done, Shamus. Good advice for game coders, probably for many that want into games.

I only do software, interested in games but not enough in game coding itself. I don't want to remove my escape by turning games into work.

For coders some additional comments: Learn more than just software, in particular more than the software buzz word of the month. Learn how the OS works (Linux has source code), learn how a device driver works, learn assembler, see how the compiler translates some silly line into a mountain of shit - then figure a way around it. Each of those steps will make you a stronger coder, because you will know that the device driver cannot do that, the OS will prevent this crazy idea and you will know that the code is slow because of some heuristic the compiler made that you didn't know about.

For the things besides software, read Shamus' articles damn it! Learn how the art pipe line works, why it works the way it does. Read John Carmack talking about the mistakes in Rage (hint art pipeline) and porting the older games and Rage to iOS.

Find out what it takes to get a business loan, and what paying it back actually costs. Find out whether a publisher is a good one or even a good idea. Read the contract closely, take it to a lawyer.

Learn.

 

[rembrandtqeinstein]

I've been a hobbyist game dev for nearly 3 years now and have yet to release a game. And shamus is totally right, your grand game idea probably sucks once you start implementing it.

Here is a screenshot from my most "professionally" made game: Valance (the lasers in that game are awesome if I do say so myself)



That said I don't regret the time I spent on learning dev. It makes me much more appreciative of games that work well as a player.

And I haven't given up my dream yet. Just toned it down to a more realistic level.

My games (such as they are) can be played from the links on this page http://www.twitch.tv/acp_twitch

I'm happy to answer questions over PM if anyone has any

 

[Mikeybb]

I don't want to be a game developer, mainly because I'm a desolate tundra when it comes to training and talent in that area, but a little because In a way I am already.

The scale is much smaller of course, running table top games for my friends.
Almost a quarter of a century running various systems with a few small breaks.
The method and medium are completely different, but the end goal of providing an entertaining experience to a vocal and critical audience is the same.

All I can promise you brave, brave souls who take the path towards being a game developer is my undying gratitude.
I'll try to keep a lid on the "obsessively watchful harsh critical eye" that sometimes creeps along with the grateful part.