A Simple Way to Create Character Sprites

What Is a Character Sprite?

A character sprite is a simple two-dimensional video game graphic embedded within a broader environment. For example, characters from Final Fantasy VI, The Legend of Zelda, Pokemon Red, and Castlevania are all sprites. They are two-dimensional bitmap images included in the general game world and move independently of the game's environment.

How Do Sprites Work?

Sprites animate on the screen separately from the game environment. Characters, animals, and even particle effects such as explosions and more animate independently of the environment.

Where Can You Get Free Sprites?

There are several great places to get sprites. One of the best options is OpenGameArt, which hosts thousands of different sprites and designs for use. Beyond OpenGameArt, it's better to just search for the specific sprites you need to find them easily.

How Big Is a Character Sprite?

It depends on the project you are working on. Standard sprite sizes are 16×16, 24×24, 32×32, and 64×64. If you're having trouble determining the optimal format for a character, decide on the resolution.

Why Is a Sprite Called a Sprite?

The term was coined back in the 1970s by Daniel Hillis. Since sprites moved independently of the bitmap, they seemed to float around, much like ghosts—rumored to be called "sprites"—are said to do.

What Do Sprites Do?

Sprites populate your game world and help complete games. Without sprites, classic games like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past would not exist.

Sprites for RPGs

Yes, RPG Maker allows you to draw your own sprites or import them from a painting program after editing them to your liking.

Is There a Free Version of RPG Maker?

Yes, you can use RPG Maker VX Ace Lite instead of the paid version. They recommend that beginner developers use RPG Maker VX Ace Lite, especially if you have a tight schedule and are new to game development. At any time you can upgrade to the full version to get more features.

How to Create a Sprite Sheet? What Is a Sprite Sheet?

Sprite sheets display a ton of different sprite images in a grid format. They usually contain all the different angles from which a sprite can be seen and the actions it can perform. This gives the user everything needed to create their own games and characters.

You can easily create your first sprite sheet or tileset by downloading the free version of TexturePacker. Even in the free version, you can easily flex your muscles creating sprites.

Animation Strips: Sketching Your Actions
These are some of the simplest sprites to create. Draw or color the different actions of the sprite that resemble animation.

Tilesets: Creating the World Around Your Game
Tiles are the same as sprite sheets for game characters; they create the game environment.

Optimize Sprite Sheets!
In game development, it's all about saving memory. What can you sacrifice for better performance? Optimizing sprite sheets is a great way to do this. You reduce sprites and save a ton of memory in the long run.