IN THIS LESSON: CREATE A TEST EPISODE

Why a test episode? Learn the basics before you think big!

Before we talk about ideas, we need to understand what we’re working with. By the end of this unit, you’ll know exactly what you can do on Dorian, and you’ll be ready to use this knowledge to tell your story!

⚠️ Don’t lose momentum! Most people finish this in 1 day or less!

What’s a Test Episode?

A test episode is your first step into creating.

Great ideas are shaped by the tools you use to bring them to life! That’s why this comes before you lock in anything else.

  • Before your plot

  • Before your final character designs

  • Sometimes even before your core concept

This is your exploration phase.

You’re not making something perfect, you’re just learning what’s possible, so you need to be flexible.

There will be time for polished storytelling and refined art later.
Right now, your only goal is simple:

Get started.

Create an account

You must be logged into your creator account to get started! [see more]

Select a Beginner Template

Once your account is set up, head to your creator homepage on https://dorian.live to find our free beginner templates:

  • Modern

  • Fantasy

  • Horror

These templates come with pre-loaded backgrounds and characters, so you can start experimenting immediately, or use your own art. [see more]

Your Beginner Template Will Explore…

Dialogue and narration

Choices

Choice Memory

Premium options

Check out our Engine Basics resources for more in-depth articles about each of these elements!

Flexibility is Key!

Imagine finishing your first character sprite and realize it takes up too much horizontal space, and key details of your character are cropped by a vertical screen.

Use this opportunity to see how your designs will look in-game.

Art Dos and Don’ts

If you’re an artist, your test episode is a great learning opportunity as you prepare for your final sprites!

✅ Do

  • Upload unfinished or placeholder art

  • Prioritize speed

  • Be experimental

  • Start with one or two characters

❌ Don’t

  • Use a fully rendered, finished sprite

  • Wait until you have multiple characters ready

  • Overthink it

Lesson 1: Core Understanding

Stuck?

Join our 👉Discord Community to connect with our staff and mentors!

Most creators who succeed on Dorian don’t do it alone.

In our Discord, you get:

Direct feedback on your game ideas, writing, and monetization

Answers in minutes, not hours (no getting stuck alone)

Find collaborators (artists, writers, voice actors)

Learn what’s working right now from top-performing creators

Real examples of games that are making money

FAQ

Do I need coding experience?

No. Dorian is fully no-code! You can build your first episode in under an hour. Check out our engine basics.

How long does it take to make a game?

On average, it takes a creator one day or less for a test episode, one week or less for a full-length episode.

When do I start making money?

Players can start spending hearts to support you immediately after you publish! Creators who iterate and release weekly earn the most. Learn more about making money on Dorian.

What should I make my first game about?

Don’t overthink it. This first stage is about learning the tools! We’ll talk about what works in the next unit! Looking to get inspired by the community? Join our Discord!

Can I collaborate with others?

Yes! Many successful games come from writer + artist partnerships. Learn how to add a collaborator to your project. Looking for collaborators? Join our Discord!