Make a game in GODOT

Make a game in GODOT

Godot is a free and open-source game engine that supports both 2D and 3D game development. It uses its own scripting language called GDScript, which is easy to learn. I think it's the best overall platform for making your own games at an NCEA Level. 

First, check this guide to see all the features: Features

Then follow this walk through guide to get making and creating!

Spend a bit of time planning your game on paper - follow this simple synopsis video. Define your player, "Win and Lose  Conditions" (e.g., reaching a flag, collecting 5 items, or surviving for 30 seconds), level, etc. 

Remember, this is only a mini game so keep it super simple! 

With only a few weeks available, we'll use an asset store to find the kind of artwork you're after. Kenney really is the best out there so we'll use this.

Go to Kenney Assets.  Look at 2D assets.

When you find one you like simple Download it. Note the tile size - this is important later!!

Create a new project then drag these into the File Explorer in GODOT.  

Create your MAIN scene

Add a character (use your free sprites or a simple shape)

Add movement (left/right or up/down)

Use a simple shape to set up basic collisions e.g. so the player can’t walk through walls

Create the camera to follow the player

Build the world your player interacts with.

Use a TileMap node to "paint" floors and walls, or place StaticBody2D nodes for obstacles. 

Ensure everything has a Collision Shape

Add a background

Add a "challenge" to your level. 

Create a simple enemy (static or just move left and right)

Add collision so touching causes a restart - Use the Node Tab to check for Signals— (e.g., body_entered → get_tree().reload_current_scene()).

Create coins, keys, or points to collect

Make them disappear when touched

Add a simple score counter. 

A game needs to communicate with the player.

Show a “You Win!” screen when the goal is reached

Show a “Game Over” screen when the player loses

Show the Score in a fixed position

Use an AudioStreamPlayer node for background music.

Go to Project > Export. Add a preset for Windows Desktop or Web (HTML5). 

Export your project as a playable file to share with others. Your first game is done!!!