The Creative Side of Game Design - Questions
by Jake Muronaka · in General Discussion · 11/02/2009 (12:25 am) · 4 replies
So I know nothing about programming. I know nothing about 3D rendering. The same with code, engine developing, and all that jazz. But what I do have is incredible passion, basic visual character/environmental conceptualizing skills, and a strong developing creative writing skill. As game design goes, I feel completely out of my element. However, for as long as I've ever known I've wanted to create video games. Lately, I've been hard at work writing dozens upon dozens of pages relating to a particular concept I'm incredibly passionate about. As far as my visual accompaniments go, I've done some character sketches, UI designs, map concepts, and level layouts. That's pretty much it. Yet, I have pages of game flow, progression, stat-building, story, rewards, etc. information. The question that I'd like to bring up is this:
Is it realistic that I can begin to think about breaking into this field lacking these skills?
I've read multiple threads here relating to all these things that I just can't do and don't have the time to learn. Creatively, however, everything is on paper. It's just the idea of making it real that is so difficult. I'd love to hear this community's thoughts on my situation. I'm open to anything, positive or negative. Thank you very much.
~Jake
Is it realistic that I can begin to think about breaking into this field lacking these skills?
I've read multiple threads here relating to all these things that I just can't do and don't have the time to learn. Creatively, however, everything is on paper. It's just the idea of making it real that is so difficult. I'd love to hear this community's thoughts on my situation. I'm open to anything, positive or negative. Thank you very much.
~Jake
#2
11/02/2009 (8:01 am)
Start by teaching yourself c++ and 3d modeling in your spare time. Download a copy of Visual Studio Express for C++ (you can get it for free) and get a cheap 3d modeler(s). I'd recommend MilkShape 3d and Deled for that. You do not need to become an expert, but knowing these things will make you a better designer because you will have some understanding of what obstacles your team will have to overcome in order to realize your design. 
#3
I would also be careful with this advice. There is a multitude of people who "stop by" to try and wrangle up a team to work on a game where they are the "idea people" which is, in itself, a bad idea. Leading a game development team is analogous to leading a Victorian expedition through the jungle: If they see you're not a fit leader, they'll abandon you to die.
What you need to learn is both how to communicate with teammates, and how to manage them correctly. I have a thread here that, while written for MMOs is equally applicable to any kind of game, and it's probably a good read.
11/02/2009 (12:31 pm)
I'll second what T. John Laird said above. If you want to be a designer, then you need to be able to talk to both the programmers and the artists in ways that make that communication meaningful. If you can't get your vision across, then you're going to fail.Quote:You could throw a team together to build a game that you designed.
I would also be careful with this advice. There is a multitude of people who "stop by" to try and wrangle up a team to work on a game where they are the "idea people" which is, in itself, a bad idea. Leading a game development team is analogous to leading a Victorian expedition through the jungle: If they see you're not a fit leader, they'll abandon you to die.
What you need to learn is both how to communicate with teammates, and how to manage them correctly. I have a thread here that, while written for MMOs is equally applicable to any kind of game, and it's probably a good read.
#4
11/03/2009 (4:47 am)
This is fantastic you guys. Thanks a ton. The idea mentioned is indeed an MMO, which makes your post that much more meaningful. Thank you very much again, fellas.
Torque 3D Owner Bryce²