Game Development Reference
In-Depth Information
Now that we have learned a little more about the app lifecycle, you can give your game a try
and see if it will run on Windows 8.
Running Your Game for the First Time
You should have everything you need in place to run your game and see if it works. To test
your game, click on the run button (
Figure 2-11
) at the top of the Visual Studio window.
Figure 2-11. Clicking on the green arrow will start the build process for your game's project.
This will run the game locally in debug mode. Once the project is compiled you will be taken
to the game, which will most likely be full screen if you are running on a single monitor.
NOTE
Windows 8 runs great on multiple monitors. One of the best features of having a two-
monitor setup is being able to run Modern apps on one screen and the “classic” desktop
on the other monitor. What this means is that you can easily build your Windows 8 app
side by side with Visual Studio's debug tools visible, which will increase your productiv-
ity dramtically. If you are thinking about getting a second monitor or upgrading an exisit-
ing one, I highly susggest getting a touchscreen. Not only will you be able to code Win-
dows 8 games better with a two-screen setup, you can also test out touch controls.
In a single monitor setup, you can still switch back and forth between the game and Visual
Studio's debugger. Hopefully your game is running. Depending on your game's controls, you
should also be able to play it. In the event that your game is not working, I suggest checking
out the chapter on debugging and optimization to help troubleshoot the problem.
