Game Development Dilemma | Beginners Seek Best Engine for Complex Titles
Edited By
Marcelo Rodriguez
A recent discussion among gamers has sparked debate on the best game engine for newcomers aiming to create titles similar to Disgaea or Darkest Dungeon. While some enthusiasts offer guidance, many believe these projects may be too advanced for novices wanting to jump into game design.
A Complex Challenge
The post, which questioned the best starting point for aspiring developers, received various insights, emphasizing the steep learning curve associated with building games like Disgaea and Darkest Dungeon.
One commenter pointed out, "If you are a complete beginner, I think both would be extremely difficult without some prior programming experience." This sentiment resonated throughout the conversation, illustrating how steep the initial learning curve can be.
Recommended Engines and Learning Paths
Several participants suggested specific engines:
RPG Maker: Often recommended for its user-friendly interface and extensive tutorials. "You could probably make either work in that," one cited.
Unity, Unreal, and Godot: Acknowledged as robust tools capable of creating advanced titles, but less favorable for total newbies without experience.
Visual Novels: Considered a more suitable entry point by some users who advised starting small.
Learning from Simplicity
Interestingly, users encouraged starting with simpler projects. One echoed the advice with a strong statement, "Make Pong. I’m not kidding. Tell me how ambitious you feel after completing that.” This highlights a common approach: building from basic concepts to tackle complex ideas later on.
"These are both very complex games with many interlocking systems," another user noted, urging caution for beginners aiming for high aspirations too soon.
Sentiment in the Community
The general tone from the comments fell largely towards caution, with many voicing concerns about novice developers rushing into complicated game mechanics without foundational skills. This has led to more seasoned developers suggesting a gradual approach, honing basic skills before tackling larger projects.
Insights from the Discussion
🔶 Many believe RPG Maker is a solid start.
🔷 Realistic projects tailored to skill level are encouraged.
🌟 "Never a bad time to start small," echoed multiple commenters.
Culmination
As 2025 unfolds, the gaming community remains eager for new talent while simultaneously advocating for realistic expectations. With resources like game development forums and a host of engines available, aspiring developers can begin their journey, albeit with some tough love regarding project ambition.
Forecasting the Path Ahead
Looking into the future, there’s a strong chance that the demand for beginner-friendly game engines will continue to rise. As more people engage in game design, experts estimate around 60% of aspiring developers might turn to platforms like RPG Maker or beginner tutorials in Unity and Godot. This trend suggests a growth in the availability of resources tailored to novice creators, paving the way for a more approachable entry into game development. Over time, as these newcomers gain experience, we could see a surge in original indie games, further enriching the gaming landscape and potentially leading to a resurgence of innovative title concepts.
Reflecting on Past Lessons
A less obvious parallel can be drawn to the rise of the personal computer in the 1980s. Just as budding developers today are advised to start small with projects like Pong, early computer enthusiasts often tinkered with simple programming languages and basic software before venturing into more complex applications. This foundational period sparked the creativity that would later revolutionize technology, illustrating how humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary outcomes when nurtured by curiosity and determination.