Mobile games are the go-to source of entertainment for millions of people. The market is growing at an exponential rate and over the years Android games have established themselves as a dominant force in the market. Games like Genshin Impact and PUBG: Mobile have broken platform barriers and provide the same level of immersion on the mobile platform.
If you are a mobile game developer or enthusiast, you might be wondering how to make an Android game that can captivate millions of players. Well, you have landed at just the right spot. In this blog, we will provide a beginner’s guide to creating an Android game from initial conceptualization to post-launch maintenance.
Let’s dive in.
What are Android Games?
Android games are video games that are specifically designed and developed for the Android OS. These games support any Android operating system device including, smartphones, tablets, PCs, Android TVs, etc.
Over the years, Android game apps have evolved from simple 2D platformers like Temple Run to complex AAA titles like Call of Duty and Genshin Impact. Moreover, these games come in various types of genres including adventure, strategy, board, card, simulation, puzzle, RPG, Battle Royale, and more.
Since many investors and gaming entrepreneurs are actively investing in Android game development, Android has maintained its position as the leading mobile operating system with a 71.88% market share, far surpassing the iOS platform which has a market share of approximately 27.65%. (Source)
How to Create an Android Game? Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step beginner’s guide to making an Android game from scratch and capitalizing on the lucrative market.
Step 1: Game Conceptualization
Before you can dive into the Android game development process, you need to come up with a unique idea that will serve as the foundation of your game. You can start by analyzing the various popular games in the market and filtering out the ideas one at a time.
Your idea should be engaging, unique, and gripping enough that players keep coming back to your game. Here are some tips to get you started:
- Target Audience: Different demographics like different types of games. Finalize your target audience to determine the game genre, mechanics, and narratives that will appeal to them. You need to understand whether you are targeting casual gamers, children, hardcore gamers, or another specific demographic.
- Game Mechanics: The game mechanics define the core gameplay. What actions will the main character take? Different game genres have different types of mechanics. A unique gameplay mechanic will appeal to gamers and will set your game apart from the rest.
- Storyline and Characters: Determine what type of story or narrative your game will have. Will it be an open-world adventure or a linear cinematic experience? What kind of characters will you include and how do they tie with the storyline?
- Game Design: The visuals of the game are largely responsible for player engagement. Finalize what will your game look like and what kind of art style will you use. Will it be in 2D or 3D? Will it have themed levels or will they change according to story progression?
- Monetization Strategy: The primary purpose of any entrepreneur is to generate revenue. Luckily for you, making an Android game can be highly profitable. Some common monetization models include paid downloads, in-app purchases, advertisements, subscription plans, and loyalty programs.
Also Read:- 99 Unique Mobile Game Ideas for Android and iOS in 2025
Step 2: Choose the Right Game Engine or Android Development Tools
After you have taken care of game conceptualization, you must choose a game engine that will help you create your Android game. Gone are the days when developers had to write entire lines of code manually.
Game engines are platforms that provide tools and resources to simplify the game development process. While there are many game engines for mobile game development, some of the most popular ones include Unity, Unreal, Godot, GameMakerStudio, and Cry Engine.
Every game engine comes with its own features and perks so it is essential to choose the right one. Consider these factors when choosing one:
- Game Requirements: This includes the complexity of your game. If you are creating a simple 2D game, any game engine will do but a complex AAA title like Wuthering Waves will require robust graphics rendering and performance capabilities. If you want to develop a complex Android game, you can go with Unity or Unreal.
- Ease of Use: If you are not an experienced developer, it is best to choose a user-friendly game engine that does not require extensive coding. However, if you want to develop a complex, high-end mobile game, you will have to hire dedicated Android developers to streamline the development process.
- Cross-platform Compatibility: If you plan to release your game on other platforms(which is usually a good idea), you should go for a cross-platform game engine like Unity.
- Licensing Fee: Different engines have different licensing fees and subscription charges. You can also go for open-source engines but they generally come with limited features. Choose a game engine that fits well with your budget.
Besides the game engine, you also need to choose the right programming language that is compatible with your game engine. For creating Android games, developers usually prefer the Unity game engine with the C# programming language as it is highly compatible with Unity.
Step 3: Game Visual Design
Once you have finalized the technicalities, you can get started with the process of making an Android game. The first step is to create the visuals and artwork for the game. This includes elements like characters, user interface, backgrounds, environments, levels, objects, and props.
Depending on your game type and requirements, you can design the visuals in 2D or 3D. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Art Style: Make sure to keep a consistent art style throughout the game. Whatever anime style you choose, consistency is important for a streamlined gaming experience.
- Vibrant Colors: Use colors effectively to guide players throughout the game world. For instance, open-world games can use a vibrant colored pathfinding light to help players traverse to the next mission or points of interest. Also, color theory triggers psychological effects on the player (Red=Danger, Green=Safe, etc.).
- Simple UI: Since mobile screens are small, you have to work in a limited space. Make sure the UI is simple and clean enough that users can easily navigate it. Avoid clutter and too many multimedia elements as it makes the game look laggy and unresponsive.
- Performance Optimization: Mobile devices are limited by hardware, meaning you will have to properly optimize your game to ensure proper performance across various devices. Use texture compression, asset optimization, improve code efficiency, and other optimization techniques to ensure proper performance.
- Avoid Large Files: Most mobile gamers have limited data plans. Avoid making your game too large and try to keep file sizes as small as possible. However, if your game is extremely complex with vast open worlds and different game elements, try to optimize it and do not worry about game files.
Step 4: Game Development
The next step is to develop the Android game. This includes coding the game’s logic and defining the game mechanics. The backend of the game is also built during this process.
Since programming the game takes the longest time, you can hire an Android game development company to handle the entire process while you can focus on things like creatives and marketing. If you want to make the game yourself, you can follow these actionable tips to streamline the workflow:
- Break Down Game Elements: Mobile games can be incredibly complex depending on the genre and type. To streamline coding and management, you can break down the game into smaller chunks, making it easier to manage and test.
- Organize the Code: Make sure your code is organized and easy to read. This will help you make future adjustments and maintain it over time.
- Test Your Code: Testing is a crucial phase in any game development process. Test your game code extensively to ensure that it works properly across various devices and platforms.
- Gather Feedback and Improve: Be open to feedback from playtesters and stakeholders and refine your code and game elements accordingly. This will help you achieve the desired result and create an Android game that stands out in the competitive market.
Step 5: Testing and Quality Analysis
After the development phase, the next step is to conduct extensive testing to ensure that the game works perfectly without any bugs or glitches. Gather feedback from testers and iterate the game before launching it. There are various types of testing phases, including:
- Unit Testing: Test each component of the game individually
- Compatibility Testing: Test the game on different devices and platforms to ensure compatibility with different screen sizes, resolutions, and hardware.
- Stress Testing: If you are creating a multiplayer game, test the game under extreme conditions to ensure that it can handle a large number of concurrent users without compromising performance.
- User Experience Testing: Test the overall responsiveness and user interface to ensure the game offers an engaging and smooth gaming experience.
- Optimization Testing: Test for performance across various hardware and optimize frame rate, loading times, and memory usage to ensure seamless performance.
Step 6: Game Launch
After testing and iteration, you can launch your game. Most Android games are featured on the Google Play Store. However, you can also deploy your game on third-party app stores like the Amazon AppStore, Aptoide, or Softonic.
However, that’s not all. You will have to promote your game app on AppStores using App Store Optimization (ASO) techniques to ensure your game reaches the intended target audience.
Also Read:- 10 Best Mobile Multiplayer Games for Android & iOS in 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Make an Android Game?
On average, the cost of creating an Android game can range anywhere from $20,000 to $500,000+. This is because the actual cost depends on several factors:
- The complexity of the game
- Platform compatibility
- Location of the Developers
- Design and Features of the Game
- Technology Stack
- Marketing Budget
- Customization
- Game Design
Here is a cost breakdown table to give you a rough idea:
| Stage | Component | Estimated Cost (USD) | Details |
| Pre-Production: | Game Design Document (GDD) | $500 – $2,000 | Core concept, mechanics, and design planning |
| Market Research & Prototyping | $1,000 – $3,000 | Competitor analysis, MVP, basic prototype | |
| Game Development: | Game Engine Licensing | Free – $1,500+ | Unity (free/premium), Unreal (royalty-based) |
| Developer Salaries (1–3 devs) | $5,000 – $50,000+ | Varies by duration and team location | |
| UI/UX Design | $1,000 – $5,000 | Layout, menus, game navigation | |
| Game Logic Programming | $5,000 – $30,000+ | Core functionality, physics, mechanics | |
| Art & Animation: | 2D/3D Art Assets | $2,000 – $25,000+ | Characters, environment, items |
| Character Animation | $1,500 – $10,000+ | Walk cycles, actions, VFX | |
| Sound Design & Music | $500 – $5,000+ | Background music, sound effects | |
| Testing & QA: | QA Team or Tools | $1,000 – $5,000 | Bug testing, performance, and compatibility checks |
| Backend & Features: | Server Setup (if multiplayer) | $3,000 – $20,000+ | Firebase, PlayFab, or custom backend |
| In-App Purchase Integration | $500 – $3,000 | Payment gateways, virtual currency setup | |
| Ads Integration | $300 – $2,000 | AdMob, Unity Ads, etc. | |
| Publishing & Marketing: | Google Play Store Account | $25 (one-time) | Required for publishing on the Play Store |
| App Store Optimization (ASO) | $500 – $3,000 | Keywords, store listing, screenshots | |
| Marketing & Promotion | $2,000 – $30,000+ | Influencer marketing, paid ads, PR campaigns | |
| Post-Launch: | Maintenance & Updates | $500 – $5,000/month | Bug fixes, content updates, feature patches |
Total Estimated Budget Range:
- Simple 2D Casual Game: $5,000 to $20,000
- Mid-range 2D/3D Game: $20,000 to $100,000
- High-end 3D Game: $100,000 to $500,000+
Top Game Engines for Creating an Android Game
Developing an Android game can be a rewarding experience if you know which game engines and development tools to use.
| Game Engine | Best For | Pricing | Pros | Cons |
| Unity | All-round 2D & 3D mobile games | Free (up to $100K); Paid tiers | Massive asset store, cross-platform, AR/VR ready, strong community | Resource-heavy, optimization is needed for complex projects |
| Unreal Engine | High-end 3D & visually rich games | Free (5% royalty after $1M) | AAA graphics, Blueprints (no-code logic), full access to engine tools | Large app size, overkill for simple mobile games |
| Godot | Indie, minimalist 2D games | Free (open-source, MIT license) | Lightweight, customizable, fast iteration | 3D features still maturing, and smaller community |
| GameMaker Studio | 2D casual, puzzle, and arcade games | Paid (starts at $9.99/mo) | Drag-and-drop UI, beginner-friendly, quick prototyping | No 3D support, Android export behind a paywall |
| CryEngine | AAA-quality 3D games | Free + royalties | High-fidelity graphics, powerful rendering engine | Complex to learn, not mobile-optimized out-of-the-box |
| Cocos2d | Lightweight 2D mobile games | Free (open-source) | Great performance on low-end Android, small footprint | Limited tools/UI, small global dev community |
- Cross-platform mobile games (2D/3D): Unity
- Ultra-realistic visuals, 3D RPGs: Unreal or Cry Engine
- Lightweight 2D Games: Godot or Cocos2D
- Fast 2D game prototyping: GameMakerStudio
Benefits of Developing an Android Game
Every entrepreneur cares about profits, and as a developer, you can generate significant ROI by making an Android game. Here are some reasons you should definitely invest in game development.
Global Reach
Android is the dominant operating system that commands a market share of over 71%. Moreover, most smartphones and mobile devices in the world support the Android OS, making it a preferred choice for mobile game developers. Android mobile games have the potential to reach a global audience and become a sensation worldwide.
Immersive User Experience
Since Android games are built using advanced game engines and development tools, they are optimized for a large number of screens and devices. These games are generally bug-free and deliver an engaging experience that players love. High-end AAA Android games like Genshin Impact, Wuthering Waves, Call of Duty, and PUBG take this immersion to the next level.
High ROI
Developing an Android game can be a very profitable business venture if you properly market your game. While it may take significant investment, the best Android games break even within weeks of launch. They have a large user base and multiple monetization models that can be converted into a high ROI.
Popular Types of Android Games in 2025
As the mobile gaming industry grows, more and more players are interested in playing Android games. This is because various types of genres are dominating the mobile gaming industry. Here are some types of Android games that you can develop:
Action
Fast-paced games focused on combat, reflexes, and precise gameplay. It is one of the most-played mobile game genres in the market.
Examples: PUBG: Mobile, Shadow Fight 4, Call of Duty: Mobile.
Adventure
Story-driven games that focus on exploration and puzzle solving. These games involve a strong narrative.
Examples: Life is Strange, Children of Light, The Walking Dead
Arcade
Simple addictive games that focus on reflexes and skills. These games do not have any existent storyline and are purely driven by gameplay.
Examples: Subway Surfers, Jetpack Joyride, Crossy Road
Role-playing Games
Complex games where you control a character through a detailed story or world.
Examples: Genshin Impact, Summoners War, Eternium
Simulation
These types of Android games mimic real-world activities or scenarios
Examples: SimCity Buildit, The Sims Mobile, Plague Inc.
Strategy
Skill-driven games that involve planning, resource management, and tactical decisions.
Examples: Clash of Clans, Clash Royale, State of Survival
Puzzle
Simple games focused on logical thinking or problem-solving.
Examples: Candy Crush Saga, Monument Valley, Brain Out
Casual
Light, easy-to-play games ideal for quick sessions. Suitable for both casual and hardcore players.
Examples: Angry Birds, Helix Jump, Among Us
Sports and Racing
Competitive games that simulate a real-life sport like Cricket, Basketball, or Hockey.
Examples: Real Cricket, FIFA Mobile, Asphalt 9: Legends
Card and Board
Digital versions of classic card or board games like Ludo, Chess, and Poker.
Examples: Solitaire, Hearthstone, UNO!, Ludo King
Idle/Clicker
Games that progress over time and require players to perform simple actions like tapping or swiping.
Examples: Tap Titans 2, Idle Miner Tycoon, AFK Arena
Battle Royale
Multiplayer survival games where the last man standing on the map wins.
Examples: PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, Fortnite
MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena)
Team-based real-time battles with defined roles and strategy
Examples: Arena of Valor, League of Legends: Wild Rift, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
Final Words
Creating a mobile game may seem like a daunting task especially if you are not from a technical background. It requires creativity, dedication, technical know-how, and a strategic approach. However, if you follow this step-by-step guide, you can streamline the entire process and create an Android game that stands out among the competition.
By choosing the right development tools, experienced developers, and game genre, you can create a standout Android game that captivates players and also generates significant ROI.
Or, you can hire an Android game development company like BR Softech that will take care of the entire development process, from ideation to post-launch maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Ans. The best game engine for developing Android games depends on the type of game you are developing. If you want to develop a cross-platform 3D game, Unity is a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you want to create an open-world RPG with ultra-realistic visuals, Unreal or Cry Engine will be the best choice.
Ans. Yes, it is possible to make a basic Android without coding. Many game engines offer zero-coding user interfaces that allow developers to create games with just the drag-and-drop feature.
Ans. It takes around 3 to 6 months to create a simple Android game from scratch. However, this is just an estimated timeline as the total duration of the development process depends on the complexity of the game, the development team, and the game genre.
Ans. To publish an Android game on the Google Play Store, you will need to create a Google Play Developer Account, prepare your game, and then follow the steps in the Play Console to upload and submit it for review. Besides that, developers also need to pay a one-time registration fee of $25.
Ans. Android mobile games can take advantage of multiple monetization strategies to generate significant revenue. Some of the most common monetization models for Android games include microtransactions, advertisements, subscription models, and paid apps.
Ans. While a full-fledged development team will streamline the entire process, it is possible to make a simple Android game without one. As an independent developer, you can create an Android game by leveraging the right game engines.
Ans. The cost to hire an Android game development agency depends on the company’s pricing model. Different companies have different partnership models. While some charge hourly rates or revenue sharing, others take a one-time fee for the whole project.
