This relatively short book attempts to cover a very large topic. While this book is considered an introduction to building HTML5 games with Impact, a JavaScript game framework, it is also intended to be a companion guide to help you get started making, and more importantly, finishing your games. I have created a high-level overview of what I consider to be the most important parts of making a game with Impact, along with what you should keep in mind or research further in order to become a better game developer. This book will take you step-by-step through the process of creating a 2D side-scrolling game with Impact, and how to publish it to the web and even package it up as a native iOS app.

I have also worked very hard to condense all this material as much as possible. That being said, when topics are larger than the scope of this book, I do my best to point you in the right direction so you can find more information. Making games is hard work and requires not only technical skills, but also a lot of planning and commitment to completing the project. While following this book may not guarantee a hit game, it will most certainly prepare you to complete the game you start, which any game developer will tell you is probably the hardest part.

Making video games is hard work that requires technical skills, a lot of planning, and—most critically—a commitment to completing the project. With this hands-on guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to create a real 2D game from start to finish. In the process, you’ll use Impact, the JavaScript game framework that works with HTML5’s Canvas element.

Not only will you pick up important tips about game design, you’ll also learn how to publish Impact games to the Web, desktop, and mobile—including a method to package your game as a native iOS app. Packed with screen shots and sample code, this book is ideal for game developers of all levels.

• Set up your development environment and discover Impact’s advantages
• Build a complete game with core logic, collision detection, and player and monster behavior
• Learn why a game design document is critical before you start building
• Display and animate game artwork with sprite sheets
• Add sound effects, background music, and text
• Create screens to display stats and in-game status
• Prepare to publish by baking your game files into a single file