Some rights reserved by César Poyatos

Dreams of creating a gaming app that earns you a decent living aren’t so far-fetched in 2014. Provided you know how to go about it. Knowledge of coding and the design of games on programs like Stencyl won’t help you with everything. You need an understanding of the implementation of the business side too.

The initial idea

Every creative venture, be it making a game, writing a book or producing a film, starts with an idea that buds and blossoms over time. Many app developers build the app though, regardless of whether or not there is a feasible possibility people will like the idea as much as they do. And then they wonder why it didn’t take off. Whatever your initial idea, expand it by discussing it with others (people who won’t steal the idea), brainstorm creatively and work out how they would fit with one another. Don’t be afraid to research other games, because they are your basis for what components could be successful, and which ones aren’t.

Is it marketable?

An idea is never enough. You have to not only understand the market you are hoping to appeal to with your new gaming app, but also the intricacies of social media marketing that will promote your game once completed. Start out by checking the App Stores of the biggest operating systems – Android, iOS, Windows Phone etc. Browse through the relevant categories your game would fall under and pinpoint which games are rated highly by consumers. For example, someone with plans to make a poker app would scan through that category and use poker blogs to research the game in question. Invest time into experiencing the niche that you want to make the game for to further your understanding of its appeal from the point of view of a customer. Take notes, figure out what people are downloading, read the reviews and listen to various points of view.

Registering as a developer

With an idea mapped out and a clear idea of how you could market your game on the App Stores, it’s time to register as a developer. Start with the platform you ideally want to target and register with them. For example, Registering on GooglePlay for a publisher account involves a visit to the Google Play Developer Console. Enter your basic information, read and accept the Developer Distribution Agreement, pay the $25 USD registration fee using Google Wallet and go forth.

The internet and the progression of technology has opened up many possibilities in game development. Don’t let them pass you by.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Aside from being a tech blogger, Sookie Lioncourt is a fitness enthusiast who works out everyday with her father. Their favourite workout sessions include the Thumbells, which is part of O2’s “Fit for 4G” campaign. You can ask for other exercise tips by following her Twitter.