Video Game Design For Dummies

Introduction. 1
Part 1: Getting Started with Game Design. 5
CHAPTER 1: Introducing the Art of Game Design. 7
CHAPTER 2: Knowing Why Game Design Matters. 17
CHAPTER 3: Overviewing the Game Design Process . 33
CHAPTER 4: Becoming a Game Designer. 43
Part 2: Exploring Game Design Elements. 69
CHAPTER 5: Game Design Tools and Software. 71
CHAPTER 6: Getting Into Game Mechanics . 83
CHAPTER 7: Understanding Game Systems. 99
CHAPTER 8: Incorporating Story in Games. 119
CHAPTER 9: Developing an Art Style in Games. 133
CHAPTER 10: Creating an Engaging User Experience. 159
Part 3: Balancing Your Game. 181
CHAPTER 11: What Game Balance Is. 183
CHAPTER 12: Analyzing Feedback and Making Adjustments . 197
Part 4: Designing Your Own Game. 209
CHAPTER 13: Building Your Game Concept. 211
CHAPTER 14: Following a Step-by-Step Game Design Process . 231
CHAPTER 15: Finishing Your Game . 247
Part 5: Publishing and Marketing Your Game. 259
CHAPTER 16: Getting Your Game Noticed . 261
CHAPTER 17: Publishing Your Game. 283
Part 6: The Part of Tens. 293
CHAPTER 18: Ten Game Designers You Should Know. 295
CHAPTER 19: Ten Free Resources for Game Designers. 303
Glossary. 307
Index. 311

 Video Game Design For Dummies teaches you what it takes to design games from concept to completion. You'll learn the theory behind great gaming experiences, and you'll discover tools you can use to bring your game ideas to life. An experienced video game developer teaches you the basics of game design and how to motivate and engage players. Choose the right game engines and design tools for any project and get step-by-step advice on testing and debugging the games you've made.

 Thinking of pursuing game design as a career path and want to know where to start? This Dummies guide has your back. With this easy-to-understand book, you can dip your toes into the world of video game design and see where it takes you. And if you end up wanting to release your game to the masses, you'll find everything you need to know, right here.

• Learn the step-by-step process video game designers use to create great games

• Design characters, worlds, and storylines that will keep players engaged

• Pick a game engine that's right for you and plan out your game development process

• Playtest your video game, then publish it and market it on social media

 This book is a practical guide for beginners who want to start designing games and want to know exactly where to begin. Design a game from concept to completion, with Video Game Design for Dummies.