A large number of companies and independent teams are involved in the creation of computer games. Specialists of different professions are involved in the development: programmers, game designers, artists, QA specialists, etc.
Large professional teams of 100+ specialists are involved in the development of large commercial gaming products. And such projects in development can cost tens of millions of dollars.
However, quite successful game projects can be implemented by small teams of enthusiasts. This is facilitated by the presence on the market of a large number of open and widespread platforms, high-quality and practically free engines, platforms for attracting “people’s” investments (crowdfunding) and affordable distribution channels.
Gaming Platforms
Hardware and software systems that allow you to run interactive gaming applications. Among the main types are:
Personal computers based on Windows, Mac / OS X or Linux
Game consoles (specialized devices for games, now in the 8th generation – Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Wii U)
Mobile devices (iOS, Android, Windows)
Universal web platforms, social networks (FB, VK, MM)
Arcade machines
Innovative virtual reality platforms
Game engines
The software layer between the platform and the actual game code. The use of a ready-made game engine makes it possible to significantly simplify the development of new games, reduce the cost of their production and significantly reduce the time to launch. Also, modern game engines provide cross-platform products. The most advanced engines are: Unity 3D, Unreal Development Kit, CryENGINE 3 Free SDK.