iOS, Android
We build mobile games that run smoothly across devices and meet App Store and Google Play requirements. Updates, live support, and long-term growth are planned into the production process from the start.
Stepico
Full Cycle Game Development Company
Let’s build the next Candy Crush, Tomb Raider, or Half-Life together: turn to Stepico for full cycle game development services that combine structured delivery with room for creative ambition.
Let’s build the next Candy Crush, Tomb Raider, or Half-Life together: turn to Stepico for full cycle game development services that combine structured delivery with room for creative ambition.
Stepico’s Full Cycle Game Development Pipeline
Stepico’s Full Cycle Game Development Pipeline
Every successful game follows a clear production path. Here’s how we structure development at Stepico, from first decisions to a shippable build, and what you can expect at each stage along the way.
1. Pre-Production & Scope Definition
We start by aligning on product goals, technical requirements, and delivery constraints. During pre-production, we define scope, platforms, engine setup, and success criteria for the entire video game development cycle. This phase establishes a clear production plan before active development begins.
2. Prototyping & Core Validation
Core mechanics and systems are validated through game prototyping and testing. Early playable builds are used to assess gameplay feel, technical assumptions, and feature feasibility. This stage provides a shared reference point before scaling production.
3. Technical Foundation & Playable Demo
Before moving into full production, we build a stable technical foundation. This includes validating architecture, performance targets, and core systems through a playable demo. The result is a production-ready baseline that can be evaluated internally or presented externally.
4. Vertical Slice Production
We develop a vertical slice that represents the final game experience in a controlled scope. Visual quality, gameplay systems, animation, and performance are brought together to demonstrate how the game will function as a complete product. This stage confirms production direction before content scaling.
5. Alpha / Beta & Quality Assurance
During Alpha and Beta, content is expanded while stability and performance are actively tested. Our QA team focuses on quality assurance and bug fixing, platform compliance, and optimization across target devices. Feedback and fixes are handled in parallel with ongoing development.
6. Release Preparation & Launch
We prepare the game for release by finalizing builds, handling platform requirements, and supporting submission processes. Release is treated as a coordinated production milestone across all teams, not a last-minute handoff.
7. Post-Launch Support & Iteration
After launch, we continue supporting the game with updates, fixes, and refinements. Post-launch work follows the same iterative game development and polishing approach to maintain consistency and long-term stability.
Full Cycle Game Development Services Stepico Provides
Any platform, any genre and any audience — Stepico’s professionals will follow your creative guidance and deliver a game you’ve been longing for.
PC Game Development
We build PC games with performance, scalability, and hardware variability in mind. Input methods, distribution platforms, and system requirements are considered during production — not after content is complete.
Console Game Development
Planning development around platform requirements and certification standards from the start. Whether you’re planning for PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo, we integrate performance targets, memory limits, and compliance into production to avoid late-stage blockers.
Mobile Game Development
Mobile games are developed with device constraints, performance budgets, and usability in focus. Production decisions support stable builds, smooth updates, and future scaling without restructuring the project.
Learn moreCross-Platform Game Development
We support development across multiple platforms using shared systems and platform-specific adjustments. This approach keeps gameplay consistent while respecting technical differences between devices.
Looking for a team that can actually deliver end-to-end?
Full-cycle development only works when one team owns the outcome. We help studios move from idea to release with clear structure, predictable delivery, and real production accountability. Share your project details, and we’ll outline how it could realistically be built.
Technology & Platforms We Work With
Mobile
PC
Windows, macOS
We build PC games with performance and hardware differences in mind. Systems are planned to support patching, scaling, and long-term support on PC platforms.
Console
PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
We plan console projects around platform requirements and performance limits early on. That makes certification smoother and releases more predictable.
Web3 Games
Smart Contracts, Wallet Integration, On-Chain Logic
We integrate blockchain features directly into gameplay systems. Smart contracts and wallets are implemented with a focus on security, usability, and long-term stability.
unreal
C++, Blueprints, Niagara, Gameplay Ability System
We use Unreal Engine to build complex, scalable gameplay systems with strong performance control. Core logic is implemented in C++ and Blueprints, often using the Gameplay Ability System for flexible, reusable mechanics.
unity
C#, DOTS, Addressables
Unity supports our mobile and cross-platform projects where iteration speed matters. Gameplay systems are built in C#, with Addressables and DOTS used to manage performance and scalable content.
Step toward Full Cycle Game Development with Us
One Team That Owns the Entire Build
You’re not coordinating multiple vendors or stitching stages together yourself. We own decisions and delivery across the video game development cycle, so design, tech, art, QA, and release move as one. When something needs to change, there’s one place it happens.
Progress You Can See Without Babysitting
You get clear milestones, playable builds, and regular check-ins — not vague status updates. Producers track scope, risks, and dependencies so you don’t have to chase answers. You stay in control without living in Slack.
Cut out Surprises in the Middle of Production
Core systems, performance targets, and platform constraints are tested early. That means no sudden “this won’t work on console” or “we need to redo this for mobile” moments halfway through development. Full cycle development only works when assumptions are verified up front.
Games Built for the Platforms You’re Shipping On
Mobile, PC, and console aren’t afterthoughts — they shape how the game is built from day one. Pipelines, assets, and systems are planned around real device and platform requirements. This keeps builds stable and ready to scale.
Builds That Stay Playable as Content Grows
Testing and optimization happen alongside development, not at the finish line. Bugs, performance drops, and integration issues are caught while systems are still flexible. You’re always working with a build that can actually be played and evaluated.
Straight Answers and Clear Communication
You’ll always know what’s done, what’s at risk, and what decisions are coming up. We flag issues early, explain trade-offs, and keep discussions practical. No buzzwords, no surprises — just honest production conversations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does full cycle game development actually include?
Full cycle game development covers the entire production scope, from early planning and prototyping to release and post-launch support. This includes game design, engineering, art production, testing, optimization, and platform submission. The key difference is ownership — one team is responsible for the outcome across the full production timeline, not just individual tasks.
How do you manage the video game development cycle with external teams involved?
We structure the video game development cycle around clear milestones, shared documentation, and regular checkpoints. Dedicated producers coordinate work across disciplines while keeping communication transparent and predictable. This allows external development to integrate smoothly with internal teams or stakeholders.
Can you handle full cycle development for different platforms and genres?
Yes, we support full cycle development for mobile, PC, and console games across a wide range of genres. Platform-specific requirements are considered early, including performance targets, input methods, and certification needs. This ensures the project scales without restructuring later in production.
How do you ensure visibility and control during development?
We work with defined milestones, regular builds, and structured reviews to keep progress visible. Clients are involved in decision-making through scheduled syncs and clear reporting. This approach supports collaboration without requiring day-to-day micromanagement.
Do you provide post-launch support after release?
Yes, post-launch support is part of our production scope when required. We assist with updates, fixes, optimization, and further iteration based on live feedback. This allows the game to remain stable and consistent after release, using the same team and production pipeline.
