1주 차: 기초
레슨 1: 도구 익히기
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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!
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.
Select a Beginner Template
Once your account is set up, head to the Dorian editor 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.
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 realizing 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. If you're an artist, your test episode is a great learning opportunity as you prepare for your final sprites.
Art Dos and Don'ts
✅ 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
Core Understanding, check yourself
- The right mindset for this unit: *"I'll experiment first and figure things out as I go."* (Not: "I need a fully developed concept before I begin," or "I need feedback before I can start.")
- Pick a date to publish your test episode and commit to it.
- Do you have everything you need to create a test episode? If something's blocking you, name it.
Stuck? Join the community
Most creators who succeed on Dorian don't do it alone. In our Discord community you get:
- Direct feedback on your game ideas, writing, and monetization
- Answers in minutes, not hours (no getting stuck alone)
- Collaborators (artists, writers, voice actors)
- A view into what's working right now from top-performing creators
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, and one week or less for a full-length episode.
When do I start earning? Players can start spending Hearts to support you immediately after you publish. Creators who iterate and release weekly tend to earn the most. *Creator results vary.* Learn more about how support works 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 for inspiration? 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.