Age of Silence: Developer Interview - Part 2

Contents:

• Choosing a game engine: why Unreal Engine 4?
• How to motivate a team without financial investment?
• How can developers ensure project security?

Choosing a Game Engine: Why Unreal Engine 4?

When developing our game, we chose Unreal Engine 4, and this decision turned out to be strategically sound. Unreal Engine 4 offers powerful tools for creating high-quality graphics and realistic physics, allowing us to realize our visual and gameplay concepts to a high standard. Furthermore, this engine offers extensive development capabilities, including support for virtual reality and multiplayer, opening up new horizons for gameplay. Its active community and extensive documentation also provide support during the development process, making Unreal Engine 4 the ideal choice for our team.

Initially, we used Unity, which was convenient thanks to my experience with C#. However, as the project developed, it became clear that Unreal Engine better suited our needs. Our programming team tested several game engines and concluded that Unreal Engine offers broader capabilities for implementing our plans. Switching to this engine allowed us to optimize our workflows and improve the quality of the final product.

Unreal Engine 4 delivers high-quality graphics and powerful game development tools, including a built-in C++ programming language. The engine's rapid development makes it the ideal choice for modern game developers. An active community both in Russia and abroad offers comprehensive support, facilitating learning and sharing experiences. In addition, the Epic Games Store, which is actively increasing its market share, is a serious alternative to Steam, which opens up new opportunities for developers and players.

When working with Unreal Engine, developers may encounter various technical difficulties. One of the main challenges is the engine's highly complex interface and functionality, which can make the learning curve difficult for beginners. Also, working with graphics and performance optimization requires in-depth knowledge, which can be a barrier at the initial stages.

However, beginners without experience with Unreal Engine may contact us. We provide support and training to help them master the engine's core concepts and features. Our team is ready to share knowledge and resources to make the transition to Unreal Engine smoother and less stressful.

Using Unreal Engine is associated with many challenges, but similar issues can arise on other platforms. We do not consider candidates without experience with Unreal, as we have high quality standards. Our project has already set certain expectations, and we are focused on attracting only experienced developers who can meet them.

How to motivate a team without financial investment?

With limited game development budgets, a pressing challenge arises: how to attract and retain talented developers. Professionals skilled in Unreal Engine require significant financial investments, so many teams rely on enthusiasm and intrinsic motivation. It's important to create attractive conditions that will encourage talented individuals to not only join the project but also stay with the team. This can include a flexible schedule, remote work options, and support for professional growth and development. Using these approaches, developers can build a sustainable and productive team capable of implementing ambitious gaming projects.

Oleg, one of the project's founders, emphasizes that developing specialists is the foundation of the company's success. He notes that even experienced developers must adapt to the team, which takes time and effort. The company places great emphasis on creating unique opportunities for employees, allowing them to feel valued and involved in the overall project. This approach not only promotes professional growth but also strengthens team spirit, which ultimately leads to increased work efficiency and the achievement of common goals.

Levon notes that many developers join the team because of the ambitious project, which will be a significant addition to their portfolio. "We have virtually no staff turnover – those who stay understand the value of their work and the significance of the project as a whole." This confirms that working on our team not only brings professional satisfaction, but also contributes to career development.

New employees should understand that game development is a complex and labor-intensive process that goes beyond simple entertainment. Oleg emphasizes: "Game development is real work that requires significant effort and professionalism." Understanding this complexity will help the team cope with tasks more effectively and achieve high results.

The Age of Silence project was founded in 2018 by Oleg, who has extensive experience in programming and teaching. Since then, the project team has expanded significantly, with each member bringing their own unique contribution to the overall project. This growth has improved the quality of work and expanded the scope of the project's capabilities, which has positively impacted its development and achievements. Age of Silence continues to attract attention thanks to its innovative solutions and the high level of professionalism of its members.

The team provides a unique opportunity for each member to realize their creative ideas. Unlike standard junior positions in large companies, where strict restrictions often exist, our developers are free to contribute their suggestions and ideas. This approach not only promotes professional growth but also makes the work process more interesting and engaging. The opportunity to influence the project and develop creative solutions inspires the team to achieve high results.

Oleg emphasizes that the key problem for beginning teams is the high probability of an unfinished project. "We strive to create conditions that will help avoid team breakdown," he notes. "Game Gods" Focused on successful completion of the game, which gives each participant confidence in the future. We understand that completing a project not only strengthens team spirit but also increases the chances of success in the industry.

To maintain high motivation, the team systematically celebrates its achievements, even small ones. Every victory and every step towards goals inspires the participants to continue working and helps them not to give up. Regular recognition of successes creates a positive atmosphere, which contributes to improved team dynamics and increased overall productivity.

Oleg is convinced that their project is unique and interesting, which becomes the main source of inspiration for the entire team. He notes: "If we were developing something ordinary, no one would stay with us." This confidence in the project's originality underscores its significance and attracts the attention of both the team and potential clients.

The team has implemented a vertical hierarchy system, which helps eliminate political intrigue and misunderstandings. Oleg emphasizes: "We are not a political party, but a family united by a common goal." This approach helps us effectively achieve our goals and strengthens team spirit.

How can developers ensure project security?

Legal registration plays a key role in ensuring the legality and reliability of a business. Proper document execution helps avoid many problems associated with legal disputes and administrative fines. If you are experiencing difficulties with documents, it is important to contact professionals who will help you understand the nuances and prepare the necessary paperwork. Proper legal registration allows you to protect your interests and reduce the risks associated with your company's activities. Don't miss the opportunity to ensure the legal protection of your business, because this is the foundation of its successful functioning.

Levon: We are currently in the process of formalizing our project, which was previously not promoted due to lack of funding. Since our project is non-commercial, we did not pay due attention to legal security. However, over time, it became clear that successful development required not only energy and enthusiasm, but also legal protection. Proper paperwork and compliance with legal regulations will help ensure the sustainability and reliability of our project in the future.

Are there any cases of attempts to steal your project?

Oleg: The name Age of Silence can be registered by anyone, but our project is not just words. This is the result of a team's work, programming code, visual assets, and achieving our goals. Elements of our project cannot be simply stolen. Our greatest asset is the people behind it. While attackers may try to steal the idea or code, no one can bring the project to life the way we can.

Young developers often experience anxiety about the security of their ideas. They worry that someone might steal their concept and create a perfect game without their participation. This is a natural reaction to the competitive environment of the gaming industry, where original ideas are highly valuable. It's important to remember that protecting intellectual property and actively working on your project can help minimize risks. Developers should focus on implementing their ideas, improving their skills, and creating unique content that will attract players.

Oleg believes that even if all the developments are stolen, it will be impossible to create a quality product, since no one understands the team's internal plans and strategies. Theft is only the first stage, but successfully implementing an idea requires more effort. While speaking with a successful businessman, he received advice on the need to register trademarks in the early stages of business development. This step is essential for protecting intellectual property and strengthening your market position.

Advice for aspiring developers: focus on completing your project, and the legal aspects can be handled later. In Russia, the company registration process is fairly quick, but demonstrating your ability to see things through is key. Successfully completing a project will not only help you strengthen your skills but also attract the attention of potential clients and investors.

Levon: Indie teams need some time to test their effectiveness. The key is the team's ability to collaborate and achieve goals. It's best to start with small projects or prototypes that minimize risks and test ideas. We actively participate in game jams and organize team training sessions, which helps develop essential skills and strengthen teamwork. This not only increases competency but also establishes successful practices for future developments.

Oleg: There are two main approaches to selecting employees. One involves selecting highly qualified professionals, but such candidates can be difficult to communicate with. We've come to the conclusion that preference should be given to people with good communication skills and the ability to work in a team. For larger companies, the first option may be justified, but for our project, it's critical to avoid employees who are difficult to interact with, even if they have significant experience.

Seek like-minded individuals who share your values ​​and passions. Such colleagues will provide reliable support during difficult times and help you achieve significant success. Networking with like-minded people builds strong professional relationships and improves team productivity.