GAME DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

How to make your own 3D game

Budding video game developer? You’ve come to the right place.


Image courtesy of Darko Mitev.

The difference between game design and game development

Before we get started with the steps and software involved in creating a game, let’s talk about the differences between game design and game development. Just keep in mind that if you want to make a game on your own, you’ll need to do both.

3D rendering of knight.

Image courtesy of Amanda Irani.

Game design

The initial stages of making a game revolve around creative design. In the design phase, you’ll come up with the concept of your game, consider the target audience, and map out the gameplay mechanics and features.

3D rendering of dystopian city.

Image courtesy of Edit Ballai.

Game development

Game development involves the actual creation of game characters, objects, environments, and levels, as well as the more technical side of the game creation process – also called game programming.

The 6 steps to creating a 3D video game

Although creating a video game is undoubtedly a complex and intricate process, with the right tools it’s not as difficult as you may first think.

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rendering of Castle in the Sky

Image courtesy of Vitor Mar.

Programming languages for video game development

When developing your video game, there are a number of different programming languages to consider for coding. Some of the most popular and commonly used include C++, Java, JavaScript, HTML5, C# and Python. The more complex your game concept is, the deeper your understanding of programming languages will need to be.

3d rendering of The Crystal Ship"

Image courtesy of Bondok Max.

Choosing video game development software

When deciding which software to use, think about which tools will best help you model assets, build environments, animate characters, and create FX, as well as which game engine you’ll use to build immersive levels and gameplay.

If you’re working with a team, consider investing in a production management tool too. This will help you track project milestones and review iterations of your game.

Autodesk game development software

3D modeling, animation, and rendering software for games and design visualization


3D animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering software for film, games, and TV


A review and production tracking toolset for VFX, games, and animation teams


3D character animation software


Digital painting and sculpting software


See how customers are using our game design software

Amanda Di Pancrazio from Splash Damage

SPLASH DAMAGE

Keeping game development creative

Read what Splash Damage, the UK game studio behind familiar favorites such as Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory and the Gears of War franchise, had to say about the Autodesk Media & Entertainment Collection.

 


GreedFall

SPIDERS

GreedFall bosses, workflow, and inspirations

With GreedFall, Spiders cemented their status as creators of truly immersive, tactical Action RPGs. 3D animator Arthur Munoz shares his experience bringing the game’s characters, bosses, and lush settings to life.

 


Image courtesy of Arthur Munoz.

Custom-built music studio with SoundStage

VR GAME DEVELOPERS

The future of VR gaming and beyond

How will VR change our everyday lives? Game developers from Quantum Capture, TeamStorm VR, Blackthorn Media, Hard Light Labs, and Psyop share their predictions on the future.

 


Image courtesy of Hard Light Labs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) on video game design and development

Find the answers to frequently asked questions about game design and development.

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