The game development process usually consists of the following steps:
Idea and Concept: The basic idea and concept of the game is determined. At this stage, elements such as game genre, gameplay mechanics, story or theme are studied.
Design: Detailed design of the game is done. Elements such as gameplay mechanics, level designs, characters, world and interface are planned. Prototype or concept arts can be used at this stage.
Development: The coding, graphic design, sound design and other content of the game is produced. Using the game engine, programmers code the game’s core mechanics, artists create graphics and animations, and sound designers create music and sound effects for the game.
Testing and Improvement: Early prototypes of the game are tested and improvements are made to the game with feedback. Bugs are fixed, balance adjustments are made and user experience is optimized.
Distribution and Marketing: After the game is completed, distribution channels are determined. The game can be released physically on discs or digital platforms. At the same time, marketing strategies are created, promotional materials are prepared and the target audience of the game is communicated.
Release and Support: The game is published and made available to users. Players’ feedback is responded to, bugs are fixed, and updates can be released for the game. In addition, users are kept in touch and the game is supported with community and events.
These steps represent a general game development process, but each game project is unique and the process may differ depending on the methods chosen by the studio or development team.
Here are some basic steps that happen behind the scenes of game making:
Concept Development: The first stage of game making is the concept development stage. Here, the idea and basis of the game is determined. Elements such as the genre of the game, gameplay mechanics, story or theme are studied. At this stage, factors such as the game’s target audience and competitive analysis are also evaluated.
Design: In the design phase of the game, a detailed planning is done. Elements such as gameplay mechanics, level designs, characters, world and interface are determined. The visual style and art direction of the game are also shaped at this stage. The design is often supplemented with conceptual art, prototyping, and other design documents.
Development: During the development phase of the game, programming, graphic design, sound design and other content production are carried out to bring the elements determined in the design to life. Programmers code the basic mechanics of the game using game engines or software languages. Artists create the game’s graphics and animations, while sound designers integrate music and sound effects.
Testing and Refinement: As part of the game’s development phase, prototypes and early versions are created and tested. At this stage, errors are identified, balance adjustments are made, and the user experience is optimized. The testing process can be performed by the quality control team or by players playing the closed beta version of the game. Based on feedback and test results, necessary improvements are made on the game.
Publishing and Marketing: After the completion of the game, the distribution channels are determined and the game is published. It can be made available to players via physical discs or digital platforms. At the same time, marketing strategies are created, promotional materials are prepared and the target audience of the game is communicated. At this stage, a promotional plan is made for the launch of the game and methods such as advertising campaigns, press releases, trailers or social media events are used.
Support and Update: After the game is released, the developer team provides support to the users of the game. This may include fixing bugs, game balance adjustments, and resolving issues users are facing. Additionally, updates and additional content for the game may be released. Updates often introduce new features, fixes or expansions to the game and are a constant effort to provide a better experience for the game’s users.
Community Management: After the game is released, it is important to interact with the players and build a community. The dev team responds to players’ feedback, answers questions and organizes community events. This helps players develop a sense of commitment and builds a community that ensures the longevity of the game.
Data Analysis: Data analysis is important to understand the game’s success and user behavior. The developer team evaluates player behavior, player preferences and performance of the game by examining the analytical data and player feedback within the game. This data can guide future updates, content expansions and marketing strategies.
The behind-the-scenes process of game production can vary from one game project to the next and can vary depending on the size of the project, the structure of the studio or dev team, the game type, and other factors. But overall, the steps outlined above reflect the core processes of game making.
