A game engine is a kind of operating system that exists within a game and provides an appropriate set of basic functions for its correct operation. To write a game engine, you need to have a good knowledge of this or that programming language. Ideally, such programs are best written in C, since most modern games are written in C.
Instructions
Step 1
Establish an engine specialization that determines the design of the entire kernel. If you are writing a simple 2D arcade game, then it makes sense to create the engine as a static or dynamic library. It will be possible to describe several high-level functions that will output sprites, palette animations or play sounds. Then, when you go directly to writing games, you just connect this library and use a specific function.
Step 2
If you plan to write a large-scale project with a non-linear plot and an interactive environment, then pay more attention to the scripting system. When creating a 3D engine, take care of the render part, which is responsible for drawing textures. Choose the system you plan to use (BSP, portal engine or quad).
Step 3
Separate the functions that are necessary for the engine and play the main role (support for multiplayer games), and which you want to see (volumetric fog or improved detail). Start with the implementation of the main part, since the rest may not be needed at all in the future.
Step 4
Plan ahead before implementing. Choose the genre of the game to make it popular, research the modern video game market. It will be more pleasant for you to do what has a certain demand. Specify all requirements for the project exactly. It can be simplicity, or it can be an application with absolutely realistic graphics that can take years to develop. Record performance requirements, character counts, and plot features. Consult with your friends and acquaintances-gamers.
Step 5
Describe the architecture and create a hierarchy of functions through a top-down approach. Design pseudocode to implement the most important bottom functions. He must implement the algorithm relatively and focus on the most difficult points. Try to test the correctness of the program and create tests for the lower functions.
Step 6
Start coding. Implement the bottom functions and pseudocode, get a working program. Stick to a specific formatting style. Don't forget to debug and test your code.