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Build your first game with RPG Maker MV

4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 242 ratings
see reviews
Jeff Minakata

Have you always wanted to build a game, but never knew where to start? Maybe the thought of programming scares you, you don't know how to share or sell your games, you want to be able to publish your games to different platforms. This course is for you. In this course you don't need any programming experience at all. You won't need to hunt down resources to build your maps, characters, music, etc. All the tools that you need are build right into the software that we will be using. Have custom music, sounds, graphics? Not a problem, we will go over that too. Have a Windows machine, a Apple, Linux? Good news, RPG Maker works with all platforms. Do you want to build a game that's not a RPG? Again, not a problem, RPG Maker is more than a RPG builder, it is a powerful, flexible tool that is capable of creating various games.

Read more

Have you always wanted to build a game, but never knew where to start? Maybe the thought of programming scares you, you don't know how to share or sell your games, you want to be able to publish your games to different platforms. This course is for you. In this course you don't need any programming experience at all. You won't need to hunt down resources to build your maps, characters, music, etc. All the tools that you need are build right into the software that we will be using. Have custom music, sounds, graphics? Not a problem, we will go over that too. Have a Windows machine, a Apple, Linux? Good news, RPG Maker works with all platforms. Do you want to build a game that's not a RPG? Again, not a problem, RPG Maker is more than a RPG builder, it is a powerful, flexible tool that is capable of creating various games.

In this course we will be going through building a game from scratch, start to finish. We will go over tips and tricks, how to export your game to various formats, and how to publish you game(s) for free or get paid. We will be going through step by step in a easy to follow instructions. If you have any questions or issues during the course? Contact me and I will do my best to help you out. Just because you buy the course, doesn't mean the support ends there.

Don't stop yourself from realizing your dreams of building and publishing your game. Grab the course, get the software (demo or full) and build your first game.

FYI, a reminder: I not anyone that is a part of DGS has any affiliation with any of the vendors, software manufactures, or programmers in this course.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objective

Build a game in rpg maker mv, compile thier game, upload it to sell.

Syllabus

Introduction

Welcome to the course!

In this video we take a look at RPG Maker's requirements for Windows, OSX, and Linux

In this video we are downloading and installing RPG Maker MV for Windows. Sorry there isn't a demo for ISX or Linux at this time.

Read more

In this video we go over some ways to get RPG Maker for a discounted price.

Can RPG Maker only make RPG games? In this video we discuss some options.

Planning your game.

In this video we go over some of the RPG Maker features

In this video we learn how the event system works.

In this video we start generating player characters and NPCs.

In this video we go over how to build maps.

In this video we take a look at RPG settings.

In this video we take a look at adding in videos into RPG Maker!

In this video we take a look at uploading custom pictures.

In this video we take  a look at adding custom audio to RPG Maker.

In this video we take a look at making custom NPC's.

In this video we learn how to make random encounters.

In this video we take a look at making a store in RPG Maker.

In this video we learn now to make a Inn, treasure chest, and a working door.

In this video we learn how to make in game emotes.

In this video we take a look at adding weather effects.

In this video we take a look at the item system.

In this video we take a look at setting up skills.

In this video we learn how to add monsters.

In this video we learn how to end our game.

In this video we take a look at exporting our game to different platforms.

We are finally building our game!

In this video we continue to make our game by adding our party members.

In this video we talk about free software that can help us build our games.

In this video we take a look at making character classes.

In this video we take a look at how to build a dungeon or room the easy way.

In this video we learn how to add dialog to our game.

We continue building our game by tweaking the classes.

We continue building our game by adding in the castle and intro.

We continue building our game by finishing the castle and working on our world map.

We continue our game by finishing our world map and adding our party.

In this video we continue to build our game. We add in our villain(?) build up the cut scene and get ready for the final battle.

In this video we finish our dungeon.

In this video we wrap up our game.

In this video we finally publish our game

Ok, I love bonuses and I want to say thank you for purchasing this course. For buying this course I will include the game that we are building in this course and ANOTHER game that I have published: Magnum Bullets: Case Closed (Windows code. If you prefer OSX or Linux let me know).

Get Part time hero (free for Windows): https://disposablegamesstudio.itch.io/part-time-hero-udemy

Get Magnum Bullets: The Trouble with Elder gods: https://disposablegamesstudio.itch.io/magnum-bullets-the-trouble-with-elder-gods/download/F4XVG3ZT9iduecoiSNkCkCvoK_ytmF6ldPMotYvG

This video was by request from one of the students. In this video we go over a easy way to convert your RPG Maker MV HTML file to a APK file that can be used on your Android device. It's pretty easy :)

In this bonus video we take a look at a video driven choice game.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a step-by-step guide to building a game from scratch using RPG Maker MV, making it accessible for complete beginners
Covers exporting games to various formats and publishing them, which is essential for sharing creations with a wider audience
Explores the event system, character generation, map building, and RPG settings, which are fundamental aspects of game design
Includes bonus content such as converting RPG Maker MV HTML files to APK files for Android devices, expanding the game's reach
Requires RPG Maker MV software, which may involve a purchase, although a demo version is available for initial exploration
Focuses on RPG Maker MV, so learners should be aware that the skills developed are specific to this engine and may not directly translate to other game development platforms

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Reviews summary

First game with rpg maker mv

According to students, this course is a largely positive experience for absolute beginners wanting to build their first game using RPG Maker MV. Learners praise the step-by-step approach and the focus on building a complete game from scratch, which makes the process accessible even without programming experience. Many find the instructions clear and the instructor responsive in the Q&A. While it provides a solid foundation covering core RPG Maker MV features like maps, events, and characters, some reviewers note it doesn't cover more advanced topics like scripting or plugins. Overall, it's considered a practical and effective starting point for hobbyists.
Instructor answers questions.
"The instructor is responsive in the Q&A, which is a big plus."
Concepts and usage explained well.
"The instructor explains concepts clearly..."
"The instructor's pace is just right."
"It shows you *how* to do things in RPG Maker MV..."
Follows a clear path building a full game.
"The step-by-step approach to building a complete game from scratch was incredibly helpful."
"Building the example game alongside the videos made everything click."
"Finally a course that actually delivers on making a full game!"
"The instructor breaks down the process into manageable steps."
Perfect starting point for new game developers.
"Absolutely fantastic course for beginners!"
"It demystifies game development for total newbies."
"As a complete beginner, this was very accessible."
"Highly recommend for anyone curious about making an RPG."
"No prior coding needed indeed."
Focuses on 'how' over 'why'.
"It shows you *how* to do things in RPG Maker MV but doesn't always explain the *why* behind certain design choices or event setups."
"It's a bit like following a recipe without understanding cooking."
Doesn't cover advanced or custom features.
"My only minor critique is that it doesn't delve much into scripting or more advanced features like plugins..."
"...you'll eventually need if you want to make anything complex."
"The course sticks strictly to RPG Maker MV's features..."
"...expect to learn more outside the course if you get serious."
"It's a very basic overview, don't expect to become an expert."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Build your first game with RPG Maker MV with these activities:
Review Basic Game Design Principles
Reinforce fundamental game design concepts to better understand how RPG Maker MV facilitates game creation.
Browse courses on Game Design Principles
Show steps
  • Read articles or watch videos on core game design principles.
  • Identify how these principles apply to RPGs.
  • Consider how RPG Maker MV can implement these principles.
Review 'Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to Creating Innovative Games'
Solidify understanding of game design principles to make better design choices within RPG Maker MV.
View Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read selected chapters focusing on core game mechanics and player experience.
  • Relate the concepts to RPG Maker MV's event system and database.
  • Brainstorm ways to apply the book's advice to your RPG Maker MV project.
Create a Simple Minigame in RPG Maker MV
Practice using RPG Maker MV's event system and database to create a small, self-contained game.
Show steps
  • Design a simple game concept, such as a puzzle or a short action sequence.
  • Implement the game using RPG Maker MV's event system.
  • Test and refine the game based on player feedback.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Review 'Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design'
Gain insights into creating engaging game experiences to improve your RPG Maker MV projects.
View Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read selected chapters focusing on level design and character development.
  • Apply the book's advice to your RPG Maker MV project.
  • Experiment with different design techniques to create a more engaging game.
Write a Tutorial on a Specific RPG Maker MV Feature
Deepen understanding of a specific RPG Maker MV feature by explaining it to others.
Show steps
  • Choose a feature of RPG Maker MV that you want to master.
  • Research the feature thoroughly and experiment with it.
  • Write a clear and concise tutorial explaining how to use the feature.
  • Include screenshots and examples to illustrate your points.
Contribute to an RPG Maker MV Open Source Project
Enhance your skills and contribute to the RPG Maker MV community by participating in open-source projects.
Show steps
  • Find an RPG Maker MV open-source project on platforms like GitHub.
  • Review the project's documentation and code.
  • Identify areas where you can contribute, such as bug fixes or new features.
  • Submit your contributions to the project.
Develop a Custom RPG Maker MV Plugin
Extend RPG Maker MV's functionality by creating a custom plugin using JavaScript.
Show steps
  • Learn the basics of JavaScript programming.
  • Study RPG Maker MV's plugin API.
  • Design and implement a plugin that adds a new feature to the engine.
  • Test and debug the plugin thoroughly.

Career center

Learners who complete Build your first game with RPG Maker MV will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Game Instructor
Aspiring game instructors may find this course helpful because it covers how to use RPG Maker MV. As a teacher, you are not only well served by knowing the material, but also by knowing how to present the material. This course's syllabus gives you a sample of ways to present the material to students. The course is designed with the beginner in mind; it teaches you how to build a game from the start to the finish. You could use a game-making software to prototype various game features, add instructional content, and test it out with users.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Instructor
Indie Game Developer
As an indie game developer, you are responsible for all aspects of game creation, from initial concept to final product ready for sale. Game development involves deciding on the game's story, designing its visuals, programming its mechanics, composing its music, and handling publishing, distribution, and marketing. This course helps build a foundation in game development by teaching you to build games from scratch using RPG Maker MV, a tool that lets you generate player characters and non player characters. The course also covers exporting your game to various formats and publishing it. It is especially helpful that you learn to build maps and dungeons because visual appeal is a significant aspect of game quality.
See salaries and explore the career path for Indie Game Developer
Game Designer
A game designer conceptualizes and designs the gameplay, rules, story, and overall structure of a game. Their responsibilities include creating engaging game mechanics, designing levels, writing compelling narratives, and balancing the game to ensure an enjoyable player experience. This course helps aspiring game designers learn the practical aspects of building a game. Learning to make non role playing games with RPG Maker MV, building maps, and incorporating custom audio and visuals contributes to a better understanding of all the elements of a cohesive game design. You also learn how to incorporate NPCs, stores, and treasure chests that contribute to the game's world.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Designer
Level Designer
Level designers focus specifically on creating the environments and layouts within a game. This involves designing the physical spaces where gameplay occurs, placing objects and obstacles, scripting events, and ensuring that each level is both visually appealing and strategically sound. This course helps level designers build a foundation by showing you how to use RPG Maker MV to develop maps, dungeons, and rooms. Creating random encounters, weather effects, and interactive elements such as doors and treasure chests helps promote your creativity in designing immersive and engaging game environments. Learning to make non role playing games is also helpful for expanding your design possibilities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Level Designer
Game Producer
Game producers oversee the development of video games, coordinating the efforts of artists, designers, programmers, and testers to ensure that the game is completed on time and within budget. This course teaches you how to build a complete game using RPG Maker MV. By understanding the entire game development process, you can more effectively manage the development team and make informed decisions about the game's design and features. The course also covers adding in videos and custom audio, which are important aspects of game production.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Producer
Game Marketer
Game marketers promote and sell video games to the public. This course is useful for marketers because it teaches you how to build a complete game using RPG Maker MV. The course also covers exporting games to different platforms, which is crucial for marketing your game across various devices and operating systems. By understanding the entire game development process, you can more effectively create marketing strategies and communicate the unique features of the game. The course covers how to end your game and add ending credits to your game.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Marketer
Software Developer
Software developers design and build software applications. This course is useful because it covers how to export games to different platforms. If you have some software development experience, then you can consider contributing to the RPG maker engine. As a software developer, you should develop expertise in Windows, Apple, and Linux. The course also introduces you to game programming by describing the event system and the item system. The course teaches you how the build the user interface and how to make a dungeon.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer
Game Artist
A game artist creates the visual elements of a game, including characters, environments, and user interface elements. They use their artistic skills to bring the game's world to life, ensuring that the visuals are both aesthetically pleasing and consistent with the game's overall style and theme. As a game artist, you would find it useful to learn how to upload custom pictures and audio into RPG Maker, which this course covers. This course may help you learn to make non role playing games as well as role playing games. The course also helps you to design NPCs, which are essential for populating the game's world, and covers weather effects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Artist
Game Writer
Game writers are responsible for creating the narrative content of a game, including the story, characters, dialogue, and lore. They work closely with game designers to ensure that the narrative is well-integrated with the gameplay and that it enhances the overall player experience. Game writers may find this course useful because it covers how to create non player characters. As a game writer, you need to understand how non player characters drive the game's narrative. You would also find it useful to learn how to add dialog and ending credits, which this course also covers. As a game writer, you would also benefit from learning about the event system in role playing games.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Writer
Game Tester
Game testers play games in various stages of development to identify bugs, glitches, and other issues that need to be fixed before the game is released. They provide feedback to developers on gameplay, difficulty, and overall player experience. This course may be useful for game testers because it teaches you how to build a complete game using RPG Maker MV. By understanding the entire game development process, you can more effectively identify potential issues and provide valuable feedback. The course also covers exporting games to different platforms, which is crucial for testing on various devices and operating systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Tester
Instructional Designer
Instructional designers create learning experiences, such as online courses and training programs. They may be able to use the skills learned in this course to design game based learning modules. Understanding how to build a game from scratch gives you insight into how to create engaging and interactive learning experiences. You could use a game-making software to prototype your game, add instructional content, and test it out with users. This course is especially helpful because it covers how to build a game from the start to finish and upload it to sell.
See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum developers design and create educational curricula for various subjects and age groups. They may find the game development skills from this course useful in creating interactive and engaging learning materials. Developing games helps you understand how to capture and maintain learner interest. This course covers building games step by step, from the start to the finish. This knowledge can then be applied to curriculum design, making learning more interactive and fun. Designing NPCs, adding dialog, and building a storyline can also be incorporated into curriculum development to provide a more engaging learning experience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer
Technical Writer
Technical writers create documentation for software, hardware, and other technical products. They may find this course helpful in understanding the game development process, which can be useful for writing documentation for game development tools or games themselves. This course covers building a game from scratch, which can provide valuable insights into the technical aspects of game development. Also, this course covers building maps and adding NPCs to the game, which is useful information when writing game documentation. By understanding the game development process, you can write more accurate and helpful documentation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Software Trainer
Software trainers teach people how to use software applications. As a software trainer, you might teach people how to use a software application like RPG Maker MV. This course may be useful for software trainers because it covers the basics of RPG Maker MV. This course helps you learn about the features of the program, such as how to build maps, generate player characters and non player characters, and add custom audio and visuals. You would also find it useful to learn about the event system and how to make non role playing games.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Trainer
Multimedia Artist
Multimedia artists create visual effects, animation, and other visual media for various platforms. This course may not be directly related to multimedia art, but multimedia artists may want to create their own video game as a side project. This course helps build a foundation in game development by teaching you to build games from scratch using RPG Maker MV, a tool that lets you generate player characters and non player characters. The course also covers how to add videos into games and add weather effects. It is especially helpful that you learn to build maps because visual appeal is a significant aspect of game quality.
See salaries and explore the career path for Multimedia Artist

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Build your first game with RPG Maker MV.
Cover image
Game Design Workshop
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of game design principles and methodologies. It's useful for understanding the underlying concepts behind creating engaging gameplay experiences. While not specific to RPG Maker MV, it offers a strong foundation for making informed design choices within the engine. It is commonly used as a textbook in game design courses.
Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to...
Paperback
$$$
Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to...
Paperback
$$$
Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to...
Paperback
$$$
Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to...
Paperback
$$
Game Design Workshop
Paperback
$$$
Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to...
Kindle Edition
$$
Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design
Save
Offers practical advice and humorous insights into video game design. It covers a wide range of topics, from creating compelling characters to designing engaging levels. While not specific to RPG Maker MV, it provides valuable guidance for creating fun and memorable game experiences. This book is more valuable as additional reading than it is as a current reference.
Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design
Paperback
Check
Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design
Kindle Edition
Check

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Rating
4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
6 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Jeff Minakata
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a step-by-step guide to building a game from scratch using RPG Maker MV, making it accessible for complete beginners
Covers exporting games to various formats and publishing them, which is essential for sharing creations with a wider audience
Explores the event system, character generation, map building, and RPG settings, which are fundamental aspects of game design
Includes bonus content such as converting RPG Maker MV HTML files to APK files for Android devices, expanding the game's reach
Requires RPG Maker MV software, which may involve a purchase, although a demo version is available for initial exploration
Focuses on RPG Maker MV, so learners should be aware that the skills developed are specific to this engine and may not directly translate to other game development platforms
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