cross-posted from: https://hexbear.net/post/2843304

So, I'm pretty much a layman when it comes to modding, game development, coding, etc. With that said, am I correct in thinking that creating a small to midsized mod for a game like Stellaris is a much smaller/easier undertaking than even a simple indie game?

If I want to get started in that direction, creating a small (functional) Stellaris mod might be a good idea?

  • Comp4 [she/her]
    ·
    3 days ago

    I guess my point is that creating a small mod is probably much easier than creating a small game, right? Especially for someone who is a newbie. Even if I were to create a small game, I would still want to make something cool, which would probably mean a multi-year project. I would want to do a 4X/strategy game if I pursued game development.

    Whereas a mod might be doable in a couple of months. Correct me if I'm wrong on this

    No worries, I would consider game development as a pure hobby project. I'm not in it to chase money. (Like if I had a finished project I would charge money for it but making money wouldnt be the point)

    • Ericthescruffy [he/him]
      ·
      3 days ago

      Sure, it all just depends on how small you're taking. Like assuming you essentially just want it to be Stellaris but with some adjustments and or an additional unit or something: yeah that's almost certainly lot easier than building your own strategy game from scratch.

      If you want to make a total conversion or something using the Stellaris engine...eh....maybe check into unity and see what kind of templates people have made.

      EOD what you learn in one will at least partially carry over so go whatever direction sounds more fun.

      • Comp4 [she/her]
        ·
        3 days ago

        Nah, I think total conversion mods are super cool, but that's not something I would consider. If I were planning something of that scope, I would rather start working on the foundation for an indie game.

        Plus if I ever plan to work on an indie game I would try to limit the scope as much as possible but keep it tight and round and sell it at a low price. Small game for a small price. (like im talking 2-3 bucks) I would consider larger projects only after I have some actual experience.