Best Game Design software for an Amateur???

[LondonBroiler]

Hi! I'm new here.  Just another KQ fanatic.  

I was wondering....I would like to try designing short, point and click type adventure games for Christmas presents for my family (we're all into gaming)..

...so what programs are out there that I could get the most out of being a complete programming amateur.  I've tried a few, but I would like some opinions if you've had experience with certain ones you like/dislike.

Thanks!

[Yonkey]

Unfortunately, since you're an amature, it will take you much longer than 20 days to create an adventure game -- even a short one.  

Don't forget, there's a lot more to a game than just programming, you'll need artwork too.

[Say]

Even a simple game, as for example like our flash games (which are not point and click are arcade, 1 player) were difficult because you must plan, organize and then develope, eventually coordinate it to actually get to finish it someday. And we did it among Neil and myself, but truth is if you're doing to do it yourself it may take more than just ONE month, just one simple game like that.

[LondonBroiler]

Good Point! I realize it's a very involved process.  

But still...where can I start looking for software?

[Say]

going through the whole idea of it you first need to know what you want to do exactly, in order to find a software that will fit you and your needs

and you will most likely will have to purchase it or purchase the license or whatnot unless it's a free software itself, but other than that we won't encourage you to download ilegally or something like that,   sorry.

[Yonkey]

Exactly.  Planning should always be your first step, because diving right into a project without conceptualizing first will lead to major problems later.  You don't want to work on something for months then realize it's not even necessary for the overall game.

The only free adventure game engine I know of is AGS, but I don't know how easy that is to learn.

[Storm]

Welcome to the forum, LondonBroiler!!

The only free adventure game engine I know of is AGS, but I don't know how easy that is to learn.

I'd go with AGS as well.
It's the only game engine I ever tried, but from what I saw, it's pretty simple to use the template game to make a demo (or a even a small game if you don't mind doing some scripting). If all you want is to have your character walk around a bit, pick up/use items and talk to other characters, you can be done in one day
There are also some sites with ready-made resources you can use, so you don't have to go all the art/interface design yourself.
Anyways, good luck!

[LondonBroiler]

Welcome to the forum, LondonBroiler!!

The only free adventure game engine I know of is AGS, but I don't know how easy that is to learn.

I'd go with AGS as well.
It's the only game engine I ever tried, but from what I saw, it's pretty simple to use the template game to make a demo (or a even a small game if you don't mind doing some scripting). If all you want is to have your character to walk around a bit, pick up/use items and talk to other characters, you can be done in one day
There are also some sites with ready-made resources you can use, so you don't have to go all the art/interface design yourself.
Anyways, good luck!

Thanks!!!!

I was so freaking happy when I found this site.

MAJOR props to you guys for this game undertaking. I'm so impressed and excited.  I adore KQ and think this is fantastic!

I've been playing with AGS all afternoon and it's pretty straightforward and fun. I find myself being a bit cliche with the interactions and scripting, but I'll get creative as time goes on.

thanks again. I'm glad to be here.

[Oldbushie]

Captain Comic was started and finished in 30 days. And it's really good besides.