Build a computer game in one hour!

paulfo — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 16:15:00 GMT

With Microsoft's games technology it is now easier then ever before to build a computer game. In this activity you will be able to follow a two tutorials; one builds a 2D game and the second builds a real 3D game! Each tutorial takes about one hour once you have your computer set up with all the tools. All you need to get is a Windows computer with Internet access. The rest of the Microsoft tools you need to get started are FREE. Here's what you need.

The bits you need

Windows XP or Windows Vista computer*
Microsoft Visual C# Express 2008 programming tool - FREE
Microsoft XNA Games Studio 3.0 - FREE

*Your computer will need a reasonable graphics card particularly for the 3D game. If you play modern arcade games on your computer already you'll be fine. But give the 2D game a go anyway - it has the least graphical requirements.

Getting started

1. Download Visual C# Express 2008 and install it by running the installation file (vcssetup.exe).

The setup downloads all the required stuff from the web. When it has finished you'll have a proper software development tool - totally FREE. Even better this tool is the starting point for Microsoft's professional development tools. So if you were to get a job writing software for Windows you'd be using the same, familiar tools!!!

2. Download XNA Games Studio 3.0 and install it by running the installation file (XNAGS30_setup.exe).

XNA Games Studio adds additional functionality to the C# ( that's C Sharp) development tool specific to games development. The games you write can run on a Windows computer, or a Zune mp3 player. They can also run on your Xbox 360 - but you need the Creators Club membership for this. If you are at University you can get a 12month membership for free via Microsoft's Dream Spark.

3. Take a look at the 2D Game Tutorial to get going!

4. Once you've conquered that one, take a look at the 3D Game Tutorial!

5. Now you'll really be itching to take your game further. So take a look at the rest of the starter kits and maybe even job the XNA Creators Club to start running your games on your Xbox 360!!!

Note some starter kits are Premium kits that require XNA Creators Club membership to access. (but most of them aren't and are really cool - see the Racing game first if you need convincing!)

6. To get more help and find others building games too - including University students, hobbyists AND professional games developers why not visit the XNA UK user group site for advice and even more samples!

7. Now you might be closer to making some money from your work. Take a look at the new Community Games on Xbox Live! Your own home made games can be published onto Xbox Live for the 17million Xbox 360 owners to review and PURCHASE. Microsoft shares this revenue with you - you'll actually get a cheque from Microsoft!

How To.... : Games

Build a computer game in one hour!

The bits you need

Getting started