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I'm writing my first game at the moment, inspired somewhat by the challenge put forward a few weeks ago to make $1 from a game by the end of October. I'm writin

I'm writing my first game at the moment, inspired somewhat by the challenge put forward a few weeks ago to make $1 from a game by the end of October. I'm writing a very simple game, and it's taken way longer than I expected. I'm not using standard widgets, so I'm having to create a library of custom widgets. Everything is 100% vector graphics (no images at all), so I've have to write a library of vector routines, (very) basic physics, etc Transitions; Every non-game object (text, menus etc) has custom animate-in and animate-out transitions. nothing just 'appears' on the screen. Games need sound, which I've never used in a desktop or web app before. This is a whole new world to me. and so on... I'm not entirely sure It'll be done by October 31, and when it is I fully expect to receive comments like "This is a very basic game, should be free, not worth $2". I'm pretty much doing it for the experience, but I'm also creating a game I (think) that I'd like to play.

dpcan 16y ago
Games also need - instructions - high scores - online high score boards - update mechanisms / announcements - options that can be turned on and off - methods for purchasing - a website - and more.... The idea and implementation is only the first step. I've been in the game business for a while now, and one thing I've learned is, if I say "oh, that's a simple idea, I can do that in a week..." I should add 3 to 4 weeks, and that's for a simple indie game idea. Good luck though. I feel like you're doing yourself a disservice going for the $1 from a game by the end of October however. Why not go for "significant additional income to your bottom line"?
- cubicle67 16y ago
  I'm using the app store, so the purchasing side of things is not too bad, but yes, all the rest still apply. Haven't even started on a website yet, and I'm planning on making a simple video too as these seem like a good way to show off the game Why not go for "significant additional income to your bottom line"? I'd love to, but you've got to learn to crawl before you can run, as they say
  - dpcan 16y ago
    I have found the app marketplace to be mixed bag - it's somewhat of a marathon, but more of a slot machine. You can put in the hours, but you also have to have a little luck. If your app hits, then all that work pays off, if not, then it can be very frustrating. I have 1 big hit, 1 smaller hit, and 5 losers in the market. Some of my losers took a lot of time. You're willing to put in the work, so I personally believe you are a step ahead. I never had any intention of crawling - but I guess I did, so I see where you're coming from.
    - cubicle67 16y ago
      thanks. I'm getting there; things are finally starting to come together, which is nice to see. if you ever read this comment (it's been a few days now since your reply) could you please email me as I wouldn't mind getting some feedback from you.

dpcan 16y ago

Games also need - instructions - high scores - online high score boards - update mechanisms / announcements - options that can be turned on and off - methods for purchasing - a website - and more.... The idea and implementation is only the first step. I've been in the game business for a while now, and one thing I've learned is, if I say "oh, that's a simple idea, I can do that in a week..." I should add 3 to 4 weeks, and that's for a simple indie game idea. Good luck though. I feel like you're doing yourself a disservice going for the $1 from a game by the end of October however. Why not go for "significant additional income to your bottom line"?

cubicle67 16y ago
I'm using the app store, so the purchasing side of things is not too bad, but yes, all the rest still apply. Haven't even started on a website yet, and I'm planning on making a simple video too as these seem like a good way to show off the game Why not go for "significant additional income to your bottom line"? I'd love to, but you've got to learn to crawl before you can run, as they say
- dpcan 16y ago
  I have found the app marketplace to be mixed bag - it's somewhat of a marathon, but more of a slot machine. You can put in the hours, but you also have to have a little luck. If your app hits, then all that work pays off, if not, then it can be very frustrating. I have 1 big hit, 1 smaller hit, and 5 losers in the market. Some of my losers took a lot of time. You're willing to put in the work, so I personally believe you are a step ahead. I never had any intention of crawling - but I guess I did, so I see where you're coming from.
  - cubicle67 16y ago
    thanks. I'm getting there; things are finally starting to come together, which is nice to see. if you ever read this comment (it's been a few days now since your reply) could you please email me as I wouldn't mind getting some feedback from you.