Discover 5 Incredible Books on Game Development
Book RaiderIn the sprawling universe of game development, it's easy to feel a bit like a brave lost in the wilderness. You have a compass (your computer), a satchel of sustenance (an endless supply of coffee), and a burning desire to discover the unknown (to create the next viral game). It's a thrilling adventure that can be as overwhelming as it is exciting. But fear not, fellow explorer, because at our fingertips is a treasure trove of guidance - books on game development.
Now, we’re not talking about that drones on like a history professor on a Saturday afternoon. No, these are books with a sense of flair, brimming with anecdotal wisdom and tips from people who've made the climb, lost a few lives, and returned victorious. These aren't just your one-up mushrooms or triforces, they're cheat codes to levelling up in the game development world. Ready to kickstart your quest? Let's dive in!
Introduction to Game Design, Prototyping, and Development: From Concept to Playable Game with Unity and C#
by Jeremy Gibson Bond
Why Introduction to Game Design, Prototyping, and Development: From Concept to Playable Game with Unity and C# is on this list: Let's be clear, one cannot talk about phenomenal books on game development and skip this gem by Jeremy Gibson Bond. You want to delve into the mind-boggling world of game creation the very ideation stage to the construction of an actual playable game? Then this is your go-to guide.
This book provides readers with a fantastic tour of the churning, intriguing world of game development. It doesn't just offer a rudimentary glance, but rather, a deep, insightful plunge into game design, prototyping, and hurls you right into game development. It's not a boring textbook—it's an exciting journey filled with Unity and C# concepts that transform you from absolute beginner to a confident game creator. And the best part? It's a hands-on tour. You'll get your hands dirty (not literally, don't worry) by creating actual playable games.
What readers like: Readers love the practical approach that the book takes. Nothing beats learning by doing, and this is what the book offers—a comprehensive, step-by-step guide that walks readers through the process of game development using actual examples and exciting projects. They appreciate the clear, relaxed style of explanation and the seamless progression from basic to complex concepts. They've found it to be an invaluable guide for all those who want a comprehensive understanding of game creation, and especially for those aiming for a career in this field.
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The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses Edition
by Jesse Schell
Why The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses Edition is on this list: If you're seeking to be a game developer, then you'll absolutely need a book that goes beyond just the lines code. This book fits into our list because it delves into the less explored aspects of game development, by viewing game design from numerous different perspectives or 'lenses'.
This edition of 'The Art of Game Design' dives deep into every element that affects a game's development. From storytelling to mechanics to aesthetics, it's like the Swiss army knife of game designing. Jesse Schell ensures that you're not just creating a game, but you're crafting an unforgettable experience for every player. By the time you complete this page turner, you'll be designing games that will become the talk of the gaming community.
What readers like: Readers appreciate how Schell breaks down seemingly complex aspects in a way that's easy to grasp, so you don't need an Ivy League degree to understand the topics. The book's down to earth approach and light-hearted humor make it an enjoyable read beyond the academic learning. They also love the 'lenses' concept that the book uses, which motivates them to think from a variety of viewpoints which can greatly enhance the gameplay experience.
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Android Programming for Beginners: Build in-depth, full-featured Android 9 Pie apps starting from zero programming experience, 2nd Edition
by John Horton
Why Android Programming for Beginners: Build in-depth, full-featured Android 9 Pie apps starting from zero programming experience, 2nd Edition is on this list: Ever looked at an addictive game app and thought, 'Hey, I bet I could make something like that'? Well, this is the book to help you dive into the world of game development, even if words like 'Java' and 'Android Studio' sound more like fancy coffees to you right now.
John Horton takes you on a journey from not knowing your bytes from your bits to being able to create full-featured Android 9 Pie apps. You’ll get to grips with Java, Android Studio, and object-oriented programming, by creating 16 cool and fun projects that coax you into getting your hands dirty. By the end of the book, you won't just understand the basics of Android programming; you'll also have a shiny new collection of Android apps to your credit.
What readers like: Folks are raving about John Horton's approachable writing style. He breaks down complex concepts into easily digestible bits, making you feel like you're learning from a wise friend, not a stuffy textbook. The practical projects also give readers a chance to learn by doing, which is often the best way to pick up new skills.
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Unity 3.x Game Development Essentials
by Will Goldstone
Why Unity 3.x Game Development Essentials is on this list: If you're looking to soak in some game development knowledge while chilling on your couch, Unity 3.x Game Development Essentials should be a top contender. It’s a match made in heaven for anyone wanting to dive into the world of game making with Unity, a massively powerful, widely used game engine.
Authored by Will Goldstone, this insightful book provides a step-by-step guide to mastering the basics of one of the popular game engines around. It dives deep into the fundamentals of Unity, unleashing its power in a reader-friendly way. By the time you close the last page, you'll have gone from Unity novice to someone who knows their way around the engine, ready to bring your game ideas to life.
What readers like: Readers of this book have praised it for its clear, uncomplicated language, practical examples, and the way it breaks down complex concepts into digestible bites. If a book could be a sizzling pizza delivery guy delivering game development skills, this book would be that guy.
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Python Crash Course, 2nd Edition: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming
by Eric Matthes
Why Python Crash Course, 2nd Edition: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming is on this list: This book embraces the complexities of game development and provides a hands-on approach to mastering it. Plus, the fact that it uses Python, one of the go-to languages for game devs, propels it to our list.
Python Crash Course serves as your perfect wingman in navigating the world of programming and game development. It starts with the basics to get you comfortable, then goes full throttle, throwing you into quite a few project-based learning scenarios, including game projects. Breaking down complex concepts into digestible tidbits, this book makes dancing with Python as easy as pie. Now, only if cooking was as easy.
What readers like: Readers appreciate how this book takes the dread out of coding and adds a fun spin to it. They love the hands-on projects that let them improvise, giving a refreshing twist to learning. The clear instructions and practical approach also get tons of brownie points. Oh, and the 'no prior programming experience necessary' part? That's pretty neat too.
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