How to Build a Simple Game Using AI Coding Tools in 3 Days

Building a simple game can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re a beginner or a solo founder. The good news? AI coding tools have come a long way and can help you get from idea to playable game in just three days. Whether you're looking to create a quick prototype or a fun side project, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Day 1: Ideation and Tool Selection

Brainstorm Your Game Concept

Before diving into the tools, spend some time brainstorming your game idea. What genre are you interested in? A puzzle game? An adventure? Keep it simple. Aim for a concept that can be executed in a short timeframe.

Choose Your AI Coding Tools

Here’s a list of AI coding tools that can help you build your game quickly:

| Tool Name | Pricing | Best For | Limitations | Our Take | |----------------------|-----------------------------|-----------------------------|------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------| | OpenAI Codex | $19.99/mo | Generating code snippets | Limited to text-based game mechanics | We use this for quick coding tasks. | | Unity with ML-Agents | Free for personal use | 3D game development | Steep learning curve for beginners | Great for 3D games, but complex. | | Construct 3 | $16.99/mo | 2D game development | Limited to web-based games | Perfect for rapid prototyping. | | ChatGPT | Free tier + $20/mo pro | Game design brainstorming | Can generate inaccurate code sometimes | Good for brainstorming and dialogue. | | GameSalad | $29/mo, no free tier | Drag-and-drop game creation | Limited customization | Great for non-coders. | | Godot Engine | Free | 2D and 3D game development | Smaller community, fewer resources | Solid choice for indie developers. | | PICO-8 | $15 one-time purchase | Retro-style games | Limited graphics capabilities | Fun for nostalgic projects. | | GDevelop | Free | 2D game development | Limited to simpler games | Easy to use for beginners. | | RPG Maker | $79.99 one-time purchase | RPG game development | Niche audience; RPG-focused | Great if you want to create an RPG. | | Twine | Free | Interactive storytelling | Not for traditional game mechanics | Perfect for narrative-driven games. |

What We Actually Use

For our projects, we typically start with OpenAI Codex for coding and Unity with ML-Agents for 3D games. If you're focusing on 2D, Construct 3 is a fantastic choice.

Day 2: Development

Set Up Your Development Environment

• Install Required Tools: Depending on your choice, install Unity, Construct 3, or any other tool you’ve selected.
• Familiarize Yourself: Spend a few hours getting to know the interface and basic functionalities.

Start Building Your Game

1. Create a Basic Game Loop: This is the core of your game. Use Codex to generate code snippets for player movement or interactions.
2. Add Game Elements: Use the drag-and-drop features in Construct 3 or Unity’s asset store to add graphics, sound, and other elements.
3. Implement AI Features: If applicable, integrate AI features using Codex or other libraries for NPC behavior.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Debugging Code: If the game doesn’t run as expected, use the debugging tools available in your chosen platform.
• Performance Issues: Keep an eye on loading times and responsiveness. Optimize assets if necessary.

Day 3: Testing and Polish

Playtest Your Game

• Get Feedback: Share your game with a few friends or fellow builders to gather feedback.
• Iterate Quickly: Make adjustments based on their suggestions and your own observations.

Final Touches

• Polish Graphics and Sound: Spend a few hours enhancing the visuals and audio to make your game more engaging.
• Prepare for Launch: Set up a simple landing page or a social media post to showcase your game.

What’s Next?

Once your game is complete, consider:

• Publishing: Use platforms like itch.io or Game Jolt to publish your game.
• Marketing: Share your project on social media, relevant forums, or through our podcast, Built This Week, to gain traction.

Conclusion: Start Here

Building a simple game using AI coding tools in just three days is not only possible but can be incredibly rewarding. Start by selecting the right tools, create a small but engaging game concept, and leverage AI to streamline your development process.

If you’re looking for more tips on building in public and shipping products every week, check out our podcast, Built This Week, where we share our experiences and tool recommendations.