How to Create 2D Games? 4 Simple Steps

What is a 2D Game?

A 2D game is a type of video game that features gameplay within a two-dimensional plane, where the characters, environments, and objects are defined by their height and width but lack depth.  2D games only allow you to move up, down, left, and/or right across the screen.

How to Make a 2D Game?

Following the right steps below, making a 2D game can be a manageable and rewarding process.

1. Find the Perfect 2D Game Engine for your Project

The first thing you need is a 2D game maker or game engine, specifically designed for 2D game programming. There are dozens of quality game engines available to you, but they're not all created equal. Well, we certainly think Genplayers is a great option for anyone wanting to get into 2D game development, but picking the right game engine is a vital decision. You need to be sure your software can do everything you need it to, and that you’re comfortable using it.

2. Choose your 2D Game Genre

Deciding on your game’s genre is one of the first major game design choices you have to make. Settling on the genre early will help inform many of the decisions you’ll go on to make, including control schemes and design philosophies. Some game genres are perfect for 2D, like puzzle games, platformers, and visual novels. 

3. Choose your 2D Art Style

Choosing a 2D art style is a deceptively important decision. A well-chosen art style can help you set the tone, tell your story, and make your own game stand out from the crowd.

4. Choose your 2D Game Assets

Assets are the sprites, backgrounds, and objects that make up your project. If you’re going to make your own game, you’ll either need to use free assets, buy ready-made ones, hire someone to make them for you or make them yourself. You can download 2D assets from your game engine’s asset library or marketplace.  Creating 2D game assets from scratch is time-consuming work, but grants you full control over your game’s artistic direction.

How Long Does it Take to Make a 2D Game?

It varies, depending on the game you’re making and your experience levels. By following our 2d game steps above mentioned, you can make a game within half an hour, even if you’ve never coded a game before.

If you’re looking to make your own game from scratch, 2D games are easier to make than 3D games, but they can still take months or even years to make, depending on your circumstances.

Check out our article on our gen players blog, ‘How to develop a game app’, for a full breakdown.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D game can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour, especially with the right tools and knowledge at your disposal. By carefully selecting a suitable game engine, determining your game’s genre, and choosing an appropriate art style, you can lay a solid foundation for your project. Whether you opt to use pre-made assets or create your own, having a clear vision and plan will streamline the development process.