The Best Way to Become a Game Engineer is to Build Fully Functioning Games

There are many roles in software engineering, and I believe the best way to master any one of them is by building fully functioning projects, and learning as you build. Game Engineering is no different, and I’m going to share a breakdown of the required skills, and also some project ideas.

Basic Skills A Game Engineer Should Know
Math: Trigonometry, Geometry, Algebra, Linear Algebra

Programming: Programming Languages, Version Control, Game Engine/Libraries

Physics: Statics and Dynamics, Physics Engines

Graphics: Graphics APIs, Graphic Optimizations, Rendering, Animation, Texture Mapping, Transformation and Viewing

Basic Algorithms: Search, Sort, Game Specific AI

Terrain: Procedural Generation, Level Design and World building

Game Design: Level Design, Worldbuilding, Game Audio, Networking & Multiplayer, Mechanics, UI/UX

View a comprehensive list of 100s of skills for game engineering

*Project Ideas *

1. Open-World RPG with Procedural Content Generation

Objective: Develop an open-world RPG where the environment, quests, and enemy encounters are generated procedurally.

Techniques: Use noise functions and algorithmic design to create landscapes, structures, and storylines. Ensure that generated content maintains quality and coherence.

2. Physics-Based Simulation Game

Objective: Create a game centered around physics simulations, where gameplay mechanics are deeply tied to realistic physics calculations.

Techniques: Leverage physics engines like PhysX or Bullet Physics for realistic simulations of fluids, cloth, and rigid bodies. Create puzzles or challenges based on physical interactions.

3. Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)

Objective: Design a MOBA game with unique characters and complex arenas where players compete in real-time.

Techniques: Focus on network optimization for real-time gameplay, scalable server architecture, and advanced matchmaking algorithms. Implement character customization and dynamic environments.

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