I Made a Game with ChatGPT...

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore how to create a simple game using OpenAI's ChatGPT for coding assistance. The goal is to leverage AI to generate C# scripts in Unity while maintaining an engaging gameplay experience. This guide outlines the key steps and considerations taken throughout the development process, showcasing the potential of AI in game development.

Step 1: Setting Up the Game Concept

• Define the Game Mechanics: Start with a simple idea. In this case, the player controls a cube that shoots projectiles to defeat enemies and can only move by knocking back when shooting.
• Establish Rules: Set clear boundaries for the project:
  • Use only code generated by ChatGPT.
  • Limit development time to three hours.

Step 2: Creating the Player Script

• Request the Script: Use ChatGPT to generate a player script that handles health and game over conditions. Make sure to specify C# and the 2D environment.
• Initial Output:
  • ChatGPT may output Python code initially. Prompt it to use C# again for Unity compatibility.
• Optimize Code:
  • Ask for adjustments to use CompareTag instead of string comparison for better performance.

void OnCollisionEnter2D(Collision2D collision) {
    if (collision.gameObject.CompareTag("Enemy")) {
        // Handle damage
    }
}

Step 3: Implementing the Weapon Mechanics

• Generate Weapon Script: Request a weapon script to shoot projectiles and apply knockback.
• Adjustments Needed: If the code does not correctly handle 2D interactions, ask for modifications to fix this.

public class Weapon : MonoBehaviour {
    public GameObject projectilePrefab;

    void Update() {
        if (Input.GetMouseButtonDown(0)) {
            Shoot();
        }
    }

    void Shoot() {
        // Instantiate projectile and apply knockback
    }
}

Step 4: Creating the Projectile Script

• Request Projectile Functionality: Ask ChatGPT to create a projectile script that destroys itself after a certain period or on collision.
• Make Adjustments: Ensure the script utilizes CompareTag for collision checks.

void OnCollisionEnter2D(Collision2D collision) {
    if (collision.gameObject.CompareTag("Ground")) {
        Destroy(gameObject);
    }
}

Step 5: Adding Enemy Functionality

• Generate Enemy Script: Request a script for enemies that can take damage.
• Spawn Enemies: Create an enemy spawner that places enemies at random positions within defined bounds. Use a Box Collider to visualize these bounds.

Step 6: Implementing Game Loop and Scoring System

• Score Manager: Create a score manager to track player points for defeating enemies.
• User Interface: Ask for guidance on how to implement UI elements to display the score.

Step 7: Enhancing Game Dynamics

• Enemy Movement: Explore using Unity's NavMesh for enemy pathfinding. If this proves complex, ask for alternative non-pathfinding solutions.
• Implementing Restart Logic: Add functionality to restart the game when needed.

Step 8: Adding Audio and Final Touches

• Audio Manager: Request an audio manager script to handle sound effects and music.
• Sound Resources: Use resources like freesound.org for sound effects and opengamemart.org for royalty-free music.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully create a simple game using AI-generated code with ChatGPT. This approach showcases the potential of AI in game development, making it more accessible for developers. As you gain confidence, consider expanding on this foundation by adding more complex mechanics or graphics. Happy game developing!