The Best Sources to Learn Android Game Development
Entering the world of Android game development can be an exciting but daunting task. With numerous resources and tools available, choosing the right one can be challenging. In this article, we will compare Unity5, Game Maker Studio, and other options to help you find the best source to start your journey in game development.
Unity5: A Popular Game Engine for Multiple Platforms
Unity5 has become a leading game engine for both indie and professional developers. It is highly versatile, supporting Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac platforms. Unity5 is completely free for indie developers, making it an accessible option for beginners. Additionally, Unity5 offers a rich set of tutorials and resources that can help you learn and master the engine.
Why Choose Unity5? Comprehensive tutorials and documentation provided by Unity. Strong community support with numerous forums and resources. Identifiable as the default choice among most indie developers. The engine is free for personal projects and small-scale games.
To get started, visit Unity’s official website for more information and to download the engine. Once you have the basics down, exploring indie developer success stories and tutorials from the Unity community can further enrich your learning experience.
Game Maker Studio: A Beginner-Friendly Option
Game Maker Studio is another excellent choice for those who are new to game development. It is known for its user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop features, making it accessible even for those without a strong background in programming. Game Maker Studio can help you create games like Fruit Ninja or Angry Birds with just a little knowledge of programming.
Why Choose Game Maker Studio? Easy to use and learn, even for beginners with no programming experience. Supports multiple platforms including Windows, Android, and iOS. Has a strong community and extensive tutorials available. Best for creating simple but fun games without needing to write complex code.
To explore Game Maker Studio, download the trial version. The official website also provides a wealth of tutorials and support to help you get started. Pro tip: Watch this beginner tutorial on YouTube to see how simple it is to start making games.
Other Resources and Books
For those who prefer a more structured learning experience, Beginning Android Games is an excellent choice. This book is designed to guide you through the process of making games from scratch, teaching you the principles behind game design and how to create functional app engines.
Check out this book on Amazon. The author takes you through the basics of game development, explaining the concepts and techniques at a beginner-friendly level. This book is particularly useful if you also want to learn about Android app development.
To dive deeper, you can also consider exploring other online tutorials, forums, and communities. Construct2, for example, is another game development tool that can be a good starting point. Although it is similar to Game Maker Studio, it offers a slightly different approach, and you can download it here. Follow tutorials on their community, and you'll find many helpful resources to get you started.
In conclusion, whether you choose Unity5, Game Maker Studio, or other resources, the key is to take the proper approach to learning. Whether it's through online tutorials, structured books, or hands-on practice, consistency is crucial in mastering the skills needed for game development. Enjoy the journey and have fun creating your games!