Build a game

All games start with an idea. At this point, you’ll need nothing more than a pen, some paper and your imagination.

Take a look at our guide to idea generation, to get some guidance on coming up with your first concepts.

Once you have an idea you are happy with you can use the tag #IGgameideas on Twitter to get some live feedback from industry professionals.

Paper Prototyping

Before a game enters production, it can help designers to make paper versions first. This is so they can test it before lots of time and money is thrown into the game's development.

Making a paper version of a game is also a great first step for new game makers. You can either follow a game-making workshop like this one OR you can download and print our Side Quest paper prototyping worksheets.

Deciding on which tools you use to build your game can be a difficult decision.

We’ve compiled over 70 different game making tools for you to explore, all of them are free to use and have been made searchable by there level of complexity. Start with the 'My First Game' option and move towards more professional tools as you improve your skills.

Search through the tools now.

Essential terms

What are Game Engines?

This is a piece of software that you build your game in. Different engines have different specialities - some might be good at small 2D games and others might be for more complex 3D titles. Be sure to use a game engine that is right for your level and ambition.

What are Game Assets?

These are the graphics, sounds and animations that make up your game. You can make these yourself, work with people that produce them or buy them from online stores. Never use assets without permission.