How to make a visual novel with GameMaker?

It's not too complicated. You need to start by understanding the basic structure of a visual novel and then learn how to implement it in GameMaker. Use the tools and functions provided by GameMaker to handle graphics, text, and user interactions.

First, open Gamemaker Studio. Then, create a new project. In the project settings, make sure to set the appropriate resolution for your visual novel. Next, start importing your assets like character sprites, backgrounds, etc. After that, use the built - in scripting language in Gamemaker Studio to code the interactions, dialogues, and story flow of your visual novel.

Gamemaker offers a wide range of features for visual novel creation. Its room editor is very helpful for setting up different scenes in your visual novel. You can define the layout of each room, which can represent different locations in your story. The variable system is also important. You can use variables to store information such as the player's name, the choices they've made, and the current state of the story. This allows for a more personalized and interactive visual novel experience. Moreover, Gamemaker has a community where you can find useful resources and get help if you encounter problems during the creation process.

The key features include a user - friendly interface that makes it easy to design the layout of your visual novel. There's the object - oriented programming system which is great for handling characters, items, etc. in your story. And the audio management feature is also important as it allows you to add background music and sound effects to enhance the atmosphere of your visual novel. For example, you can play a sad music when a character is in distress.

Keep the characters simple yet recognizable. Use high - contrast colors so they stand out on different backgrounds. Also, make sure their expressions are clear and can convey different emotions.

To make a visual novel, you first need a solid story idea. Then, you should focus on character development and art design. You'll also need to choose the right tools and software for programming and implementing the various elements.