A Complete Guide to Video Game Development Timeline

Anuj Abhiwan
May 14
4 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

Video game development is a long process that takes sufficient time. It is an intricate and heterogeneous process that has multiple stages, like pre-production, post-production, and the prototype phase, etc. Whether you are developing a video game 3D or a video game 2D, the development process is similar. The development timeline follows a similar edifice, but there are some notable differences because video game 3D is complex in its graphics, animations, and interface. We mention some video game development times for 2D and 3d video game development.

Pre-production phase (strategies and visualisations)

This is the stage where the development of the game's instauration begins. The key elements of this pre-production phase are art and design, story creation, technical terms, and the game design document. The timespan of this phase is 1 to 6 months.

Art and visuals

This is a first idea for video game development where things initiate, like deciding the Characters, animations, and interface of the game. For video game 2D, developers embrace pixel art and hand-drawn animations, sprite graphics, and tile designs. For video game 3D, developer works on motion, 3D models, and textures.

Movement mechanics

After deciding on character and animation, developers work on their gameplay mechanics. In 3D game development, movement, camera control, and modelling are important tasks. They are possible when developers work deeply on the techniques. Whether 2D game development is easy to handle.

Prototype phase(first playable experience)

The prototype is the playable version of the video game development. This is the testing and experiment process where the designs, ideas, and mechanics are finalized before the publishing. In 2D game development, sprite animations, scrolling, and hitbox mechanics are tested in this phase, and 3D video game development consists of testing of motions, animations, and camera control. The period of this process is 1 to 3 months.

Production

This is the longest and intense phase of the development. It takes around 6 months to 24 months because of the game creation.

Here are some points that are final in this phase:

Art and asset creation

The graphics, UI, models, and textures are built. Pixel art, vector graphics, and UI elements in 2D games are finalised in the stage of production. Whether characters, textures, and the interface of 3D games are developed here.

Audio integration

Sound engineers are trained to decide on sound effects, backgrounds, voice-overs, and music. This is unknown data that 42% of Gen Z players listen to other music while playing games. Music transforms games by emotional depth and immersion.

Level design and environment art

During the game creation, Artists are completely responsible for the game's visual material. These obligations surround the user interface, character design, and all 2D graphics.

Programming and scripting

Programmers work on game development and bring it into users' lives. There are two types of developers such as software developers and engine developers. A software developer creates programs, and the engine developer works on the operation of the development process. Developers take less time developing 2D games and take a longer duration for 3D games.

Testing and debugging

Testing has an important role during the development of a game. It takes 3 to 6 months. Testing is necessary to avoid bugging and stuttering issues. It ensures the game is stable, balanced, and bug-free before launching. Internal testing of the bugs is in alpha testing, and external testing for feedback comes in the category of beta testing. Checking compatibility with PC, consoles, and mobile devices ensures bug-free games.

Pre-launch and marketing

The pre-launch stage of the development includes marketing and launching a plan, setting up the distribution channel. It takes a 3 to 6-month period. It set excitement and buzz to the successful game launch. Developers are using self-advertisement, such as YouTube reviews or sponsored content, to build a fan base and audience.

Launch and post-launch support

It has an ongoing timespan. After release, many updates and support are necessary for maintaining engagement. The launch support includes day one patches and support, community engagement, collecting feedback, live events, and seasonal updates. How to become a video game developer.

How to become a video game developer

To become a video game developer, you have ot learn some languages like C, C++, and Python. You have to understand the gaming industry, programming, game engines, and various components. You are required to have strong coding with mathematics skills and physics skills to perform in specific areas. One of the best ways to get practical skills is to build a strong portfolio with small projects and prototypes. Start developing an easy game to a complexity. Work on skills, collaboration continuously.

Which language is best for game development

The best language for game development depends on the platform which the project is being developed. Generally, C++ is a used language that gives high-performing results. C++ is ideal for Unreal Engine. C# is used for the Unity game engine. Beginners use the Python language because of its simplicity, which is used in game prototyping and AI. JavaScript is used for web games. It powers large-scale projects and Android games. Each language has its strengths, such as Python for quick development and C++ for performance, and C# is easy to use.

Conclusion

Video game development is growing year by year. The timeline for video games depends on their scope, size, and complexity. Video game 2D have a shorter time to develop due to their ease and simplicity. Video game 3D demands a longer production period for development. Moreover, game development is a complex process that needs structured planning, ideas, and strategies. The skilled team is also a most required thing for the development that works on testing and launching with zero errors. The future of development is advancement in technologies such as AR and VR. It is very important to develop the game with structured stages and phases like planning, ideation, and launch.