Video Game Industry Tools 2
Gökhan Üzmez
Gametech Content Creator | xZynga-Rollic | Product Management | Business Strategy & Development | Game Design |
Before you get lost among hundreds of different software to learn, and lose track of your ability to learn and use, I am listing the essential software for you to start, boost or even master your way in the game career path.
As long as it breaks my heart to learn about big lay offs in the industry, this multi billion dollar business is set out to grow. If you are passionate about it, this is the time you keep on your learning, practicing and follow your goals.
Lets dig in:
This one is heavily for Game Artists and Animators. If you're looking to bring your game worlds to life, Blender is your go-to friend. It's like having your own 3D art studio where you can sculpt characters, design intricate environments, and even craft animations that will make your game stand out. The best part? Blender's open-source nature means you won't have to break the bank to access its powerful features. Whether you're an artist dreaming up fantastical landscapes or a programmer needing to integrate detailed models into your game, Blender's got your back. On top, it works great with both Unity and Unreal Engines.
Every idea starts with a concept. Concept artists, 2D Artists uses this most of the time.
Imagine having a portable canvas that's as responsive as traditional paper but packed with a plethora of brushes, textures, and tools at your fingertips. That's what Procreate brings to the table. It's your creative playground for sketching characters, brainstorming concept art, and crafting those visually stunning assets your game deserves. So, grab your tablet and stylus, and let your imagination run wild. Procreate is here to help you turn ideas into beautiful realities.
Future level designer extraordinaire! The Fortnite Level Editor is your gateway to crafting the game spaces that players will explore and conquer. Think of it as your ultimate testing ground for creative ideas and thrilling gameplay scenarios. As you design, you'll learn how to guide players through challenges, build suspense, and create those "a-ha!" moments. Embrace this tool, experiment with various design elements, and watch your levels come to life, adding layers of excitement to the gaming experience.
You don’t need any prior coding experience, though you may use some if you know it. Go ahead, create your own levels and let people play, this is a ground breaking level editor and you can create some reels for your portfolio if you are early in your career.
Roblox is not just a game—it's a game creation platform where you can be both the player and the creator. If you're a designer, you'll love the visual scripting system that lets you build without needing to be a coding genius. If you're a programmer, you can dive into traditional coding to bring your gameplay mechanics to life. The Roblox community is a treasure trove of inspiration and collaboration, so jump in, explore what's possible, and build games that make players smile.
Hello, are you a mastermind of game mechanics? Well you can be. Game Designers, Game Developers, Game Economy Designers, Monetization Managers, and Game Play Data Analysts. This program is the right tool for you.
Machinations is like having a crystal ball to predict how your game's systems will interact. It's your secret weapon for experimenting with economies, progression, and player engagement before a single line of code is written. This tool helps you avoid design pitfalls and refine your mechanics to create a captivating and balanced gaming experience. So, put on your game designer's hat, map out your mechanics, and see the magic unfold in Machinations.
Game economy, game balance, virtual market place and even more. You name it and machinations got your back. It’s supported by tons of community members and a great discord channel. This software can be used for any game simulation before and during the development cycle. As I am exploring the software myself, I hear tons of Game Economy Designers using it. It’s like an Excel Sheet coming live, and you can run thousands of possible scenarios in less than a minute.
I will write more about this piece of software in the future with real examples. Make sure to check it out!
Publishing and Product Managers. My Store Spy is like having a backstage pass to the world of gaming apps. Want to know what's trending, what players are loving, and how your competition is monetizing? This tool's got your back. By diving into app store data, you'll gain insights that can guide your design decisions and help you position your game for success. Stay curious, keep your finger on the industry's pulse, and let My Store Spy be your secret weapon for crafting games that players can't resist.
Game Refinery is your treasure map to unlocking the secrets of successful mobile games. It's like having a mentor whispering in your ear, sharing insights about mechanics, features, and monetization strategies that work. With this tool, you'll make informed decisions, refine your game's mechanics, and stand out in a competitive market. So, let data be your guiding star, learn from the best, and use Game Refinery to level up your game development journey.
Adobe Premiere and After Effects:
This one is for Motion and Interactive Designers. They use these tool to create thousands of different marketing videos at a time. Adobe Premiere and After Effects are your dynamic duo for creating captivating videos that showcase your game's brilliance. Premiere lets you piece together trailers and promotional videos with finesse, while After Effects adds that extra layer of visual magic with motion graphics and effects. Think of it as your director's chair, where you orchestrate how players will perceive and connect with your game. So, get ready to weave narratives that draw players in and make your game unforgettable.
Remember, every step you take in the world of game design and development is a chance to learn, grow, and create something amazing. These tools are here to support you, so embrace them, experiment fearlessly, and keep that creative fire burning bright.
Cheers