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Joseph Graham
Courses Plus Student 58 PointsHTML5 Game without a framework
I am looking to get into game development, after a lot of searching I have decided to try with html5 and, while I can see the advantages of frameworks, I would like to learn the basics without a "crutch".
Is it realistic to even try and start learning game development without using a framework? Also, if I decide to use one, what should I consider when deciding on one?
1 Answer
Dane Parchment
Treehouse Moderator 11,075 PointsI believe that if you want to make a very simplistic game then sure, learning without a framework or engine of some kind is great, but if you are looking to make a long and engaging game then it is best that you use frameworks that will do all of the heavy lifting for you.
I am a software engineer, so while I may not know too much about game development, if I was making a game I believe these are what I would create along side it:
Physics Engine: All games utilize physics in some degree, if only for collision detection, I would create a physics engine to calculate things like force, acceleration, velocity, etc. of any object I add to the game.
Game Engine: All the pieces need to fit together somehow, and this game engine will allow me to work on the foundation of my game, I could create a game engine that works off of a 2D-Array and build a mapping system off of that, or I could go the 3D route.
Audio/Animation/Effects Manager: As it states, manages the audio, animation, and effects of the game could be packaged in the game engine.
Finally you also the need the artwork and idea.
So while theoretically you could create a very bare bones game without these things, it won't be to good, however, if you feel comfortable enough to tackle creating the things above, and then implementing them into a game that you design then of course have a go at it. The frameworks are only there to do the heavy lifting for you (building the game engine, physics engine, etc.) no one is gonna think you are any worse for using them. But not using them will only give you more knowledge and experience than the average developer.