Hello everyone! Gael Here.
It’s been quite a while since I last posted an update, and I wanted to explain what’s been going on and share some thoughts about game development.
Starting Fresh with My YouTube Channel
The free time I have these days is mostly spent working on my game, which is why my YouTube channel has been so quiet. However, I’ve always wanted to have a YouTube presence alongside my game development journey. So, Iâve decided to do a âsoft resetâ of the channel, aiming to post simple, weekly videos. These videos will just be me talking to the camera about what Iâve been up to, challenges I’ve faced, and my general thoughts on game development.
I’m aware that these videos are far from perfect since I’m still learning the ropes of content creation. But you have to start somewhere, right? Every successful creator out there says that your first hundred videos wonât be great because you’re still figuring things out, and that’s okay. So, Iâm embracing this learning process and pushing past any hesitation.
About “Silent Corruption”
Silent Corruption is a survival horror game heavily inspired by classic titles like Silent Hill and Resident Evil, as well as more modern influences like The Long Dark and Stranger Things. The game features a fixed camera system for that retro horror feel but also incorporates sandbox elements such as thirst, hunger, and fatigue, which add a layer of survival strategy. I want players to experience the raw fear and tension of being at ground zero in a post-apocalyptic world, where gathering resources is crucial to survival.
Currently, Iâm focused on building a prototype, and I’ve developed the main character, Jane. I created her 3D model, rigged it, and added some basic animations. As someone whose strengths lie in game design, programming, and 3D character art, animation has been a challenging but fun new skill to learn. While Janeâs animations are still quite rudimentary, theyâre sufficient for the prototype stage. The goal right now is to test the core gameplay mechanics and see if the concept holds up.
The Long Road to Development
I came up with the idea for Silent Corruption back in 2017 when I first started learning game development. However, as a beginner, the project was too ambitious, and life got in the way. The idea sat in the back of my mind for years.
Then, when the gaming industry faced a downturn and job opportunities became scarce, I had a tough time finding work as a 3D character artist. Despite trying to improve my portfolio, the competition was fierce, especially with many experienced artists being laid off. After my contract with Squid Shock Studio ended in October last year, I found myself in a difficult position. Money was tight, and I had to take on a part-time job unrelated to game development to make ends meet.
Instead of pouring years into refining a portfolio for a potentially unstable job in the industry, I decided to use this time to work on Silent Corruption. Making my own game has always been my dream, and if job stability is uncertain, why not take the risk doing what makes me happy?
The Engine Dilemma: Unity vs. Unreal
In January 2024, I began developing the prototype in Unity, the engine I was most familiar with. But then came the controversy surrounding Unity’s proposed runtime fees and other shady practices. The uncertainty led me to switch to Unreal Engine, which has an intimidating learning curve. Although Unreal Engine is powerful, the productivity drop from learning a whole new toolset was substantial.
Eventually, I decided to go back to Unity. By then, the company had addressed some of the community’s concerns, removing the problematic runtime fees and making necessary changes. It was a relief to return to an engine I already knew well. I resumed work on Silent Corruption in July, and despite setbacks throughout the year, Iâm making progress.
Whatâs Next?
Even though I wish I had more to show by now, I’m hopeful that Iâll have a solid prototype ready soon. The journey has had its share of challenges, but the experience has been invaluable. If you’d like to follow along, stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to check out my next video for more details.
Thank you for supporting my journey as a solo indie developer. I hope to keep you entertained and inspired as I continue bringing Silent Corruption to life!
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