Hey guys,
I browsed through the game development area of StackOverflow and found quite a few useful topics there. Here is a short list of a selection I figured could be worthwhile for the average indie and / or hobby developer:
- What are good games to "earn your wings" with?
A list of games and micro-genres to start with when you're new to game development, each with an explanation why this might be a good choice for you.
- What should an indie game developer never do?
Common pitfalls for the average indie guy, especially the "lone wolf" kind. Watch out for them - it's easy to fall into a lot of those traps.
- How can I effectively manage a hobby game project?
This one is about time management and keeping up motivation. There's probably a lot of stuff happening in your real-life - how can you still find the time to maintain a project? This one has some hints on this.
- What makes a computer opponent feel alive?
A great AI is a good thing to have, but what if the player never notices? This question explores how to design an AI that adds value to the game by itself.
- Good 2D Platformer Physics
Platformers may be easy to set up, but are incredibly hard to get right. If you need a good starting point, might as well start with reading this.
- Procedurally Generating a House with Rooms
To all of you who work on one of those oldschool Rpgs or Roguelikes - this might add a nice touch.
- How should a one-person team do game audio?
Audio is an eternal struggle if you're not an audio guy, but still need some effects and music. Hopefully, this can provide some useful hints.
- Manageable Game Ideas
If the above list of example projects doesn't help, this is some advice on how to learn to be reasonable when sketching the layout of a new project. Even easy games can grow fast, if left unattended with your imagination - here's how to keep those creeping features at bay.
What are your favourite articles, tips and hints on the topics? If you have any useful links - StackOverflow or not - feel free to share them here and tell everyone why they're great.
