Making an interactive game is a creative process. You should be confident that you are making a suitable game and have the skills to develop it. To make a game like Subway Surfers, you need to be an expert or hire dedicated developers to do it.
In the fast-paced world of mobile gaming, Endless Runner games have carved a niche for themselves, providing players with exhilarating experiences that keep them hooked for hours. Subway Surfers, with its vibrant graphics, dynamic gameplay, and simple yet addictive mechanics, stands out as a prime example of a successful endless runner. If you’ve ever wondered how to create a game like Subway Surfers, you’re in the right place.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the key steps and features to consider in developing your very own endless runner game.
About Subway Surfers:
Subway Surfers, developed by Kiloo and SYBO Games, was launched in 2012 and quickly gained immense popularity across the globe. Set in a colorful urban environment, the game follows a group of characters who engage in a thrilling chase, avoiding obstacles and collecting coins along the way. The game’s success can be attributed to its engaging gameplay, regular updates, and user-friendly interface.
Additionally, after reaching such heights, other developers are also trying to make games like Subway Surfer. For this, you can contact iOS and Android game development companies to make a great game and succeed in the future.
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How To Develop A Game Like Subway Surfers?
Step 1: Create a Plan
Before diving into the world of coding and graphics, a solid plan is paramount. Define the core concept of your game, including the setting, characters, and unique features. Outline the target audience and establish a monetization strategy, whether through ads, in-app purchases, or a combination. A well-thought-out plan will serve as your roadmap throughout the development process.
Step 2: Develop a Prototype
With a clear plan in hand, it’s time to create a prototype. This step is crucial for testing the basic mechanics of your game. Use simple graphics and placeholders for now, focusing on refining the controls, character movement, and obstacles. The prototype will help you identify potential issues early on and streamline the development process.
Step 3: Design Graphics
Now comes the visual allure of your game. Design eye-catching graphics that complement the theme and engage players. Invest time in creating appealing characters, vibrant backgrounds, and dynamic obstacles. Ensure that the graphics are optimized for various screen sizes to guarantee a seamless experience across different devices.
Features:
a. Captivating Characters
Introduce memorable and relatable characters that players will connect with. Subway Surfers, for example, features a diverse cast with unique personalities.
b. Dynamic Environments
Design visually stunning and diverse landscapes. Change the scenery regularly to keep players engaged and curious about what comes next.
c. Interactive Obstacles
Develop a variety of obstacles that challenge players’ reflexes. Whether it’s dodging trains or navigating through busy streets, create a mix of challenges to maintain excitement.
d. Power-ups and Upgrades
Add power-ups and upgrades to enhance the gaming experience. These can include speed boosts, invincibility shields, or coin multipliers, providing players with a sense of progression.
Step 4: Code the Game
The backbone of your game lies in its code. Utilize a game development framework or engine, such as Unity or Unreal Engine, to streamline the coding process. Implement the mechanics established in your prototype and integrate the graphics seamlessly. Pay attention to performance optimization, ensuring smooth gameplay across a range of devices.
Step 5: Test and Publish Your Game
Before releasing your game to the world, thorough testing is essential. Identify and fix any bugs, glitches, or balancing issues. Consider beta testing to gather feedback from a diverse group of players. Once confident in your game’s stability and playability, prepare for launch.
Features:
a. Extensive Testing
Conduct rigorous testing on different devices to ensure compatibility and smooth performance. Address any issues that may arise during testing promptly.
b. Beta Testing
Engage a group of beta testers to gather valuable feedback. Use this feedback to make necessary adjustments and improvements before the official launch.
c. Social Integration
Implement social features, allowing players to share their achievements and compete with friends. This adds a layer of competitiveness and encourages player retention.
What Is the Cost of Developing Games like Subway Surfers?
Creating a game app like Subway Surfer is not that easy and the cost is high. The estimated cost is between $5,000 and $20,000. This includes designing, manufacturing, and development costs, and maintenance. Also, the cost depends on the additional features and components you want to include in your game application.
The cost of developing a game like Subway Surfers can vary widely depending on various factors, including the complexity of the game, the platform(s) it is designed for, the level of graphics and animation quality, and the development team’s location and experience. Here are some key factors that can influence the cost:
- Development Team: The size and experience of the development team significantly impact costs. Hiring skilled developers, designers, artists, and other professionals will contribute to the overall budget.
- Game Design: The complexity of the game design, including the number of levels, characters, and features, will affect the development time and cost. Subway Surfers, being a relatively simple endless runner game, may have a lower development cost compared to more complex games.
- Graphics and Animation: The quality of graphics and animation plays a crucial role. High-quality 3D graphics and complex animations will require more time and resources, increasing the overall cost.
- Platforms: The cost can vary based on the platforms you choose to develop the game for. Developing for multiple platforms, such as iOS, Android, and others, will increase costs.
- Technology and Tools: The use of advanced game development tools and technologies can impact costs. Licensing fees for certain software or engines may also be a factor.
- Testing and QA: Comprehensive testing and quality assurance are essential to ensure a bug-free and polished game. Testing can add to the overall development time and cost.
- Marketing and Distribution: Budgets for marketing, advertising, and distribution should be considered. Promoting the game to reach a wider audience may involve additional expenses.
- Localization: If you plan to release the game in multiple languages, localization costs should be taken into account.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey to create a game like Subway Surfers requires a combination of creativity, strategic planning, and technical expertise. By following these steps, from conceptualization to publication, you can pave the way for a successful and captivating endless runner game.
Remember to stay open to feedback, continuously iterate on your design, and most importantly, have fun throughout the development process. Now, armed with this guide, go ahead and bring your game to life, and who knows, it might be the next mobile gaming sensation!