You’ve just installed Unity and hit that new project button. Now what? Learning game development can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to break it down into manageable steps. I’ve been writing games for the past seven years and doing it full-time since January 2023. Here’s how I would have started learning Unity, and how you can too.
Step 1: Start with a 2D Game
Starting with a small 2D game will give you a good foundation without overwhelming you with the complexities of 3D game development. The ideal first project is Flappy Bird. Here’s why:
- User Input: Learn how to use the keyboard for user input.
- Camera and Physics: Handle the camera and physics like gravity or applying force to the character.
- Sprites and Animation: Use sprites for graphics and animation.
- Coding: Write basic C# code, focusing on five essential parts: variables, functions, classes, if statements, and for loops.
For a great Flappy Bird tutorial, check out Ziguo’s one-hour long tutorial on YouTube.
Step 2: Write Flappy Bird Without a Tutorial
Recreate Flappy Bird without following a tutorial. This step is crucial for understanding game development. Use Unity’s documentation to solve problems and ask ChatGPT to explain concepts you don’t understand.
Step 3: Join a Game Jam
A game jam is an event where you have a set amount of time and a theme to create a game around. Here’s why it’s beneficial:
- Apply Learning: Use what you learned from making Flappy Bird to create a new mechanic.
- Understand Scoping: Learn how long it takes to make different types of games and mechanics.
- Feel the Rush: Experience the excitement of releasing a game for others to play.
Step 4: Dive into 3D Game Development
To learn 3D game development, download Unity’s FPS Microgame project. This project includes a fully functioning character controller and enemies. Focus on:
- Player Movement: Understand how the player moves around.
- Camera Functionality: Learn how the camera follows the player.
- Weapon Setup: Study how guns are set up to aim down sights and switch between different weapons.
Unity has a comprehensive tutorial on setting up the FPS Microgame project. Utilize ChatGPT, Unity forums, and Discord to ask questions and seek help.
Step 5: Add Your Own Elements
Finally, add your own gun and enemy to the FPS Microgame project. This will teach you how to interact with external components and integrate them into your project. Download models from the Unity Asset Store or the internet. Focus on:
- Interacting with External Components: Learn to integrate gun and enemy models into your game world.
Remember to keep your first projects small to avoid feeling overwhelmed and demotivated.
Conclusion
Getting started with Unity game development doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these five steps: start with a 2D game, recreate it without a tutorial, join a game jam, dive into 3D game development, and add your own elements. Keep your projects small and manageable to maintain motivation and make steady progress.
FAQs
- Why start with a 2D game?
- Starting with a 2D game provides a good foundation without the complexities of 3D game development, allowing you to learn essential skills step-by-step.
- What should I do after completing a tutorial?
- Recreate the project without following the tutorial to reinforce your understanding and problem-solving skills.
- What is a game jam and why should I join one?
- A game jam is an event where you create a game within a set time frame and theme. It helps you apply your skills, understand scoping, and experience the excitement of releasing a game.
- How can I learn 3D game development in Unity?
- Download and study Unity’s FPS Microgame project. Focus on player movement, camera functionality, and weapon setup. Utilize tutorials, forums, and online communities for support.
- Why keep early projects small?
- Small projects help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and maintain motivation by allowing you to see progress and complete games quickly.