Almost everyone loves games. I went from being practically obsessed with computer games in high school to having multiple consoles in college to now spending at least an hour every day playing on my smartphone. For years, I wished I could be a part of the creative process.
Unfortunately, life got in the way, I ended up in a different field altogether, thinking that I will never be able to work in game development. How could I? I did not have enough time. It was never meant to be. Or was it?
How to Get into Mobile Game Development
1) Understand Game Development
Gradually, I realized that my tight schedule shouldn’t stand in my way. Even if I had only ten minutes per day at my disposal, I would use those ten minutes to get acquainted with the game development process. I had practically no clue how such apps were made.
It took me a while to find the right online resources and get a grasp of the idea. Still, I somehow managed to create a clear mental image and get what it takes to start.
Only after becoming thoroughly informed and finally understanding the basics did I decide to learn game development and potentially turn it into a career.
2) Take an Online Course
I still didn’t have enough time to take a proper college course, and, frankly, my budget wouldn’t have allowed for it anyway. As tuition shoots through the roof, I think more and more people will find themselves in a similar situation.
The good news is – you don’t need a college degree to get into game development. Online courses and a good tutorial will set you on your way. You’d be surprised to know how much you can learn this way.
Believe it or not, such resources are free. Your lack of money is not an excuse anymore. It’s time to get moving towards your goals.
3) Create a Portfolio
As you learn and progress, you will want to join and team and start working. This won’t be possible unless you have a decent portfolio. Showing the apps that you have already created during your learning process will be important when you are trying to negotiate a salary.
All of this will usually take a while, but it will be well worth it in the end. I have dedicated a decent chunk of my time to this effort, and I must say that I am comparatively satisfied with the results. These apps, in particular, have helped me achieve my goal.
Conclusion
Everyone who loves games must have considered making them at least once in their life. A busy schedule and a lack of funds may seem like an obstacle, but it doesn’t have to be.
If you want to get into mobile game development, you need to understand what the process entails, take a few online courses, and work on building up your portfolio. It may take a while, but, once you complete your first paid project, you can expect to see new ones arriving in reasonably quick succession.
