Color wheel
Colors next to each other on the wheel make a calm combination, while colors opposite each other make a bold, contrasting one. This simple rule helps with both a character's look and a room.
Techniques
Techniques and mechanics
Creative games have a lot in common, even when they look nothing alike. A character creator, a coloring game and a room design game all rely on the same techniques: choosing colors, layers, symmetry, planning. Learn them once and you'll feel more confident in any new game. We'll also talk separately about in-game currency: it has nothing to do with creativity, but you'll find it almost everywhere.
A technique you learn in one game stays with you in the next. A purchase doesn't.
How this section works: mechanics are described in general terms. Tool names and button layouts differ from game to game, so check the game's own help section.
Basics you'll find everywhere
Mechanics that anyone who loves making things in games runs into sooner or later.
Palette
A limited set of colors for one piece of work. The smaller the palette, the more unified the result; an easy start is a main color, a supporting color and an accent.
Layers
In drawing editors, layers are like transparent sheets. Outlines, colors and shadows on separate layers can be edited on their own without touching anything else.
Symmetry
A mode that mirrors a line onto the other side. It's handy for faces, patterns and building fronts, though a little asymmetry often makes a piece feel more alive.
Saving and versions
Save your work under a new name before making a bold change. Then experimenting isn't scary: you can always go back to the version that worked.
Planning a space
Zones and walkways first, then furniture and details. This order works for a room, a garden and even a whole city made of blocks.
How to learn a new editor
Do the tutorial
Many games start with a short intro. Don't skip it: that's where they show you the main tools.
Make a practice piece
Your first piece is a rough draft. Draw or build something simple to see how the tools behave.
Find the undo button
Learn how to undo your last action. When mistakes are easy to fix, trying new things feels much less stressful.
Recreate something familiar
Try recreating something you already like: your own room, a favorite color combination, a tune you know. It shows you what the editor can do.
Related reading
- Guides
How to plan a room in a design game, step by step. Plus the catalogue of our articles.
- Terms
Glossary: character creator, customization, skin, palette, sandbox, loot box and parental controls.
- How to judge
Your own criteria, no rankings: creative freedom, fair purchases, privacy and accessibility.
- Updates
Patch notes, seasonal events and limited-time items — without the rush or overspending.
What we rely on
- App store help pages on parental controls
We describe genres and techniques in general terms. Every game has its own menus, button names and purchase terms, and they change over time, so check the details in the game's own help section and on its app store page.