Making Video Games in 2025 (without an engine) (noelberry.ca)

Article summary

The article discusses the author's experience making video games without using a commercial game engine, instead opting for a custom approach using C# and open-source libraries like SDL. The author argues that this approach can be easier, more fun, and less overhead, allowing for more control over the development stack. The author also shares their workflow, including the use of C# for programming, SDL for platform abstraction, and FMOD for audio. This approach has allowed the author to create games like Celeste and City of None.

Main themes

• Game development without engines
• Custom game development workflows
• Open-source libraries and tools
• Programming languages for game development
• Game engine alternatives

What commenters say

• Using AI tools in game development can be useful for automating repetitive tasks, but some argue that it's often used out of laziness rather than necessity.
• Custom game development can be more efficient and effective than using a commercial engine, especially for smaller teams or projects with specific needs.
• Some developers prefer to use AI-powered tools for tasks like code completion, while others argue that customizable snippets and templates can achieve similar results without relying on AI.
• The use of AI in game development is not a replacement for traditional programming skills, and some developers prefer to focus on coding and problem-solving rather than relying on automated tools.
• Game engines like Unity and Unreal can be bloated and introduce unnecessary overhead, making custom development a more appealing option for some developers.
• The choice between using a commercial game engine and a custom approach depends on the specific needs and goals of the project, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution.