How to Make an App Similar To Draw Something?

In a world dominated by digital experiences, mobile applications have become the canvas for our creativity. Imagine a platform that entertains and engages users in a delightful artistic journey. If you’ve ever found yourself captivated by the charm of mobile drawing games like Draw Something, you’re in for an exciting ride. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating realm of app development, guiding you through creating your very own drawing app that captures the essence of the beloved Draw Something.

Whether you’re an aspiring app developer, an entrepreneur with a vision, or simply someone curious about the intricate workings of mobile applications, this guide is tailored for you. We’ll unravel the key components, strategies, and technicalities involved in crafting an app that not only replicates the magic of Draw Something but also stands out in the competitive app market.

Get ready to dive into the world of pixels, brushes, and interactive creativity as we embark on this journey to bring your vision of a drawing app to life. Let the adventure begin!

What is the Draw Something App?

The Draw Something app is a two-player game where participants take turns drawing words for their opponents to guess. Similar to Pictionary, this app is celebrated for its simplicity and addictive gameplay. It offers a convenient platform for connecting with others and engaging in interactive play. Notably popular among drawing apps, Draw Something has gained widespread acclaim for its user-friendly interface and enjoyable gaming experience.

Draw Something is a widely embraced mobile app introduced in 2012 by the game studio OMGPop, receiving recognition and awards shortly after its launch. Subsequently, Zynga, a prominent gaming company, acquired both the game and OMGPop.

The app experienced rapid popularity, amassing an impressive 50 million downloads within a mere two months of its initial release. In 2021, Draw Something recorded a substantial revenue exceeding $90.7 billion.

Features of Draw Something App

Available on both Android and iOS platforms, Draw Something offers various features:

• Users have the opportunity to engage in drawing practice sessions, creating amusing pictures.
• The app employs a turn-based drawing feature, enabling users to take turns drawing and sharing their creations with friends.
• Users can expand their social circle by connecting with fellow artists through daily challenges.
• The “Guess Something” mode allows players to decipher the drawings of others in an interactive guessing game.
• Draw Something incorporates an extensive word list to fuel the guessing game in Guess Mode.
• The app provides a diverse color palette for doodle art, with the option to unlock additional color packs for an enhanced painting experience.
• Users can earn badges by accomplishing various achievements, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the gaming experience.

Growth Impact

Dan Porter, the CEO of OMGPop, the developer behind Draw Something, disclosed that the app was achieving a remarkable daily revenue in the six-figure range. Additionally, users have collectively drawn over one billion pictures using the app, underscoring its widespread popularity and engagement.

Key Market Takeaways for the Art Game App Market

According to MarketWideResearch, for businesses envisioning the development of their own art app, the market’s projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.4% by 2033 unveils a prime opportunity. With revenue set to surge from US$ 581 million in 2023 to US$ 1,867.7 million by 2033, establishing an art app signifies not just participation but leadership in a dynamic and burgeoning digital sector.

Market Drivers

The driving forces behind market dynamics—widespread smartphone adoption, rising interest in digital art, and democratization of art consumption—form the foundation of a unique value proposition. The potential to harness advanced algorithms and AI technologies for personalized recommendations amplifies user engagement, setting the stage for an app that not only entertains but resonates with individual users on a personal level.

Also read, “A Guide To Hire AI Developers In 2024“

Innovations for Competitive Edge

Embracing market trends offers businesses a chance to innovate and stay ahead. Opportunities like integrating Augmented Reality (AR) for immersive art experiences and exploring Virtual Reality (VR) for virtual exhibitions present avenues to create a distinctive and memorable user journey. By aligning with educational initiatives, the art app can position itself as a valuable tool for aspiring artists, contributing not just to entertainment but also to skill development.

Source:  MarketWideResearch

US Dominance and Promising Future

The US emerges as a dominant player in the art app market, holding a substantial share of 23.7% in 2022. With a forecasted CAGR of 10.8%, the US market is expected to witness robust expansion. The rise in mobile app downloads and expenditures, reaching US$ 40.3 billion in 2020, underlines a promising future for art app businesses in the US.

Initiatives Driving Adoption

Recent initiatives, such as Artkick and ArtPal, contribute to the adoption of art apps in the US market. These projects enable users to explore and purchase art online, providing platforms for discovering unique works from galleries and independent artists.

European Focus on Localization

In Europe, specifically in Germany, art app companies emphasize localization strategies. With a projected CAGR of 9.2% by 2033, Germany is a key market. Companies tailor their approaches to accommodate regional specifics, including language, culture, and regulatory variations, aiming to enhance their presence in the competitive European market.

How to Create an Art Game App Similar to Draw Something?

Here’s a stepwise guide on how to create a similar app like Draw Something,

1. Understand the Original App

Dive into the world of Draw Something. Explore its unique features, such as turn-based drawing, daily challenges, and the “Guess Something” mode. Understanding the app’s mechanics is crucial for building a successful alternative.

2. Define the Project Scope

Clearly define the scope of your project. Decide on the platforms (iOS, Android) and incorporate features like drawing tools, social sharing, text chat, in-app purchases, and online payments. Consider adding push notifications to keep your users engaged.

3. App Development Methodology

Choose a software development methodology suitable for a customer-facing mobile app. Selecting the appropriate methodology, such as Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall, depends on your team’s proficiency and the project’s needs. Continuously assess and modify your plan as the project advances to ensure optimal progress.

4. Design the Features

Take inspiration from Draw Something’s features. Include turn-based drawing, daily challenges, a robust word list, a variety of colors for doodle art, and in-app purchases. Tailor these features to make your app unique.

5. Choose a Game Engine

Opting for a game engine such as GDevelop or Buildbox can simplify art game development. These engines provide a no-code approach, making them accessible even without advanced programming skills. 

Unity and Unreal Engine are also popular choices among game developers, offering ample community support and being relatively easy to learn. Your selection of a game engine influences how you construct your game, the challenges you may encounter, and even your potential earnings..

6. Start Building

Once your plan is established, you can initiate the art game-building process. It’s crucial to iterate swiftly on game mechanics. This involves making changes, testing them, and refining the game based on feedback.

 Utilizing ready-made behaviors can streamline development; these are pre-programmed actions or events that can be incorporated into your game, saving you time and effort compared to programming them from scratch.

7. Define Your Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

Craft the first version of your app, focusing on essential features that make your art game functional and distinctive. This version will serve as the foundation for future enhancements.

8. Create an App Wireframe

Wireframes act as an intermediary step between low-fidelity sketches and initial interactive prototypes. The wireframing process for mobile applications varies among designers, with diverse approaches to the wireframing process and its transition to high-fidelity design. 

The typical design sequence involves the following stages: Sketch (Conceptual level) → Wireframe (Component level) → Mock/Prototype (Styles level/Interactions level) → Code. Prior to creating wireframes, dedicating sufficient time to user research is essential, as qualitative and quantitative research data will serve as a valuable reference during the wireframing phase.

9. Make an App Mockup

Produce a full rendering of your app’s design and user interface. A detailed mockup helps visualize the final art game product and aids in refining the overall user experience. An app mockup serves as a visual representation of an app idea, conveying its overall structure, core purpose, and aesthetic. 

Unlike wireframes, mockups typically include some or all of the visual elements intended for the final product, such as text, imagery, and branding. Mockups are usually non-functional, lacking clickable links and navigable user flows. It’s important to note that once clickable links are added to the design, the project transitions into the realm of an app prototype.

10. Choose Your Platforms, APIs, SDKs, IDEs, and Frameworks

Select the necessary tools for app development, including platforms, APIs, SDKs, IDEs, and frameworks. These tools play a crucial role in shaping the functionality and performance of your app.

11. Art, Audio, and Polish

Focus on creating captivating art assets, sourcing or composing audio elements, and polishing the game for improved overall quality. Attention to detail in these areas enhances the user experience.

12. Market Your Art Game

Once your app is ready, develop a comprehensive marketing strategy. Utilize app store optimization, social media marketing, influencer collaborations, and other avenues to ensure your game reaches its target audience.

Must-Have Features in an Art Game App Like Draw Something

Here are some of the must-have features, of an art game app,

1. Drawing Tools

Provide users with a diverse array of drawing tools, including various brushes, colors, and effects. Allow customization options, empowering users to tailor these tools to their preferences or even create their own.

2. Turn-Based Gameplay

Embrace the turn-based gameplay model seen in Draw Something. This approach encourages interaction as users take turns drawing and guessing, fostering engagement and a sense of competition.

3. Word List

Feature a robust word list for users to draw. Regular updates to this list keep the game fresh and challenging, ensuring an ever-evolving experience for players.

4. Social Features

Foster a sense of community by allowing users to challenge friends and make new connections through daily challenges. Integrate a chat feature to enhance social interactions within the gaming environment.

Also read, “Web3 In Social Networks: Development Steps & Process“

5. Guessing Game

Elevate the gaming experience with a “Guess Something” mode, where players can attempt to decipher each other’s drawings. This adds an extra layer of fun and interaction to the overall gameplay.

6. In-App Purchases

Consider implementing in-app purchases, offering users additional color packs or premium features. This not only enhances user experience but also provides a valuable revenue stream for the app.

7. Achievements and Badges

Motivate and reward players by introducing achievements and badges. Recognizing accomplishments encourages continued engagement and showcases individual player success.

8. Pressure Responsiveness

If feasible, incorporate pressure responsiveness into the drawing tools. Mimicking the feel of drawing on paper enhances the realism of the app and contributes to a more immersive experience.

9. Multiple Layers and Layer Blending Modes

Elevate the app’s capabilities with support for multiple layers and layer blending modes. Advanced drawing features enable users to create intricate and detailed artwork.

10. Touch Gestures and Keyboard Shortcuts

Enhance user-friendliness by incorporating touch gestures and keyboard shortcuts. These features streamline the drawing process, making the app more efficient and enjoyable to use.

11. Additional Features

Customization and Personalization

• Customizable UI: Allow users to personalize the app’s layout and design.
• Avatars and profiles: Enable players to create and customize their avatars and profiles, expressing themselves within the game.
• Sticker integration: Provide creative sticker packs for use in drawings and chats.

Community and Competition

• Live events and challenges: Host themed live events and challenges to keep players engaged.
• Collaboration features: Enable real-time collaboration on drawings.
• Global leaderboards: Showcase top players and achievements on leaderboards.

Technological Advancements

• Augmented reality integration: Use AR technology for drawing on the real world through device cameras.
• AI-powered features: Implement AI-assisted drawing tools and custom word generation for a dynamic experience.
• Voice chat: Introduce voice chat options for communication while drawing and guessing.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

• Color blindness options: Provide alternative color palettes for users with color blindness.
• Multiple language support: Make the app accessible to a global audience with support for multiple languages.
• Text-to-speech and speech-to-text: Integrate features to assist players with reading or writing difficulties.

Tech Stacks Required to Develop an Art Game App

Here are some of the tech stacks required to develop an Art Game app,

1. Frontend Technologies

HTML: The Foundation of Web Design

HTML, a versatile markup language, serves as the bedrock for designing web pages, providing structure and organization.

CSS: Styling Web Pages

CSS steps into style web pages, offering control over layout and color management, and enhancing the visual appeal of the gaming interface.

JavaScript: Adding Interactivity

As a lightweight and cross-platform programming language, JavaScript brings interactivity to the forefront of game development, ensuring a dynamic user experience.

ReactJS: Building User Interfaces

ReactJS, a powerful JavaScript library, is often employed for developing user interfaces, especially in single-page applications (SPAs) and component-based projects.

AngularJS: Framework for SPAs

AngularJS, an open-source front-end framework, specializes in building single-page web applications, contributing to the seamless navigation of gaming interfaces.

2. Backend Technologies

Node.js: Powering Server-side Applications

Node.js, an open-source JavaScript framework, is integral for building server-side and networking applications, facilitating efficient communication between the server and the client.

ExpressJS: Enhancing Node.js Functionality

ExpressJS works atop Node.js, simplifying APIs and introducing valuable features, ensuring a streamlined backend development process.

Django: Python-Powered Framework

Django, an open-source Python-based framework, is renowned for its server-side capabilities, offering rapid development for web-based gaming applications.

PHP: A Widely Used Backend Technology

PHP, a popular backend language, finds extensive usage in web development, contributing to the robust functionality of game applications.

3. Database Technologies

Storing and Managing Data

Databases are crucial, and the choice between Relational Databases (RDBMS) like MySQL and NoSQL Databases like MongoDB impacts data management in games.

Types of Databases

Explore the array of databases, including In-Memory Databases like Redis and Cloud Databases like Amazon DynamoDB, crucial for efficient data handling.

4. SDKs and APIs

Streamlining Development Processes

Software Development Kits (SDKs) and APIs provide developers with predefined functions, streamlining tasks and enhancing the overall development efficiency.

5. IDEs and Frameworks

Building and Testing Software

Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) equip developers with tools for writing and testing software, while frameworks provide standardized approaches to application deployment.

6. Operating Systems

Impact of OS on Development

The choice of operating system, be it Windows or MacOS, can significantly impact the game development process, catering to the target audience’s preferences.

7. Web Servers

Hosting and Managing Games

Web servers play a pivotal role in hosting and managing games. Cloud-based solutions like Azure and AWS offer scalability and robustness.

8. Python-Django Stack

Rapid Development with Django

Django, a high-level Python-based web framework, facilitates rapid development through its Model-View-Template (MVT) architectural pattern, making it an ideal choice for game development.

Cost of Developing an Art Game App Like Draw Something

Aspect	Description	Cost Range
Concept and Planning	Initial brainstorming, market research, and project planning.	$5,000 – $10,000
Design (UI/UX)	Creating wireframes, mockups, and user interface design.	$10,000 – $20,000
Development	Coding the app, implementing features, and backend development.	$30,000 – $80,000
Quality Assurance (QA)	Testing the app for bugs, usability, and overall performance.	$5,000 – $15,000
Project Management	Overseeing the project, communication, and coordination.	$5,000 – $15,000
Graphics and Artwork	Creating graphics, illustrations, and any required artistic elements.	$10,000 – $30,000
Sound and Music	Composing or sourcing music, creating sound effects.	$5,000 – $15,000
Legal and Licensing	Obtaining necessary licenses, trademarks, and legal consultations.	$5,000 – $15,000
Marketing and Launch	Creating promotional materials, marketing strategy, and launch expenses.	$10,000 – $30,000
Contingency (10-20% of Total)	A buffer for unforeseen expenses or changes in project scope.	$15,000 – $30,000
Total Estimated Cost		$100,000 – $273,000

Now, here are some of the elements that can affect the overall cost of developing an art game app,

Key Elements

• Game Complexity: Complex games demand more time and resources, leading to increased development costs.
• Design and Artwork: The cost of game art services varies based on design intricacy, characters, levels, and overall artwork quality.
•  Technology Stack: The choice of technologies and platforms directly impacts development costs.
• Development Team: The size and expertise of the development team, including game artists, architects, and UX/UI designers, affect costs. 
• Features and Functionality: Intricate features require more development time, leading to increased expenses.
• Testing and Maintenance: Thorough testing and ongoing maintenance contribute to overall costs.
• Marketing and Promotion: Effective marketing strategies influence costs, necessitating resource allocation.

Monetization Strategy

• Freemium vs. Premium: In-app purchases, ads, or subscriptions add complexity and costs.
• NFT Integration: Blockchain and NFT functionality incur additional costs for security and development.

Also read, “NFT dApps Marketplace Development“

Trends and Technologies

• AR/VR Integration: Implementing augmented or virtual reality features increases development costs.
• AI and Machine Learning: Utilizing AI for character behaviors or dynamic content requires expertise, impacting costs.
• Cloud-based Development: Using cloud services for hosting incurs ongoing subscription costs.

Also read, “Top 10 Biggest AR and VR Trends in 2024“

Emerging Platforms and Distribution

• Metaverse Integration: Adapting to the metaverse presents technical challenges and potential fees.
• Third-party Marketplaces: Launching on platforms like Steam incurs additional fees and revenue-sharing.

Other Considerations

• Legal and IP Compliance: Costs for licenses, legal fees, and intellectual property protection are essential.
• Accessibility Features: Implementing features for disabled players adds development time and potential tool costs.
• Community Management: Engaging players and managing support can become ongoing costs based on game popularity.

Top 10 Art Game Apps Similar to Draw Something

Here are the top 10 apps similar to Draw Something,

1. Skribbl

Skribbl is a lively multiplayer drawing and guessing game that unfolds in real-time directly in your browser. Much like Pictionary, players engage in live sessions where they guess what others are drawing.

Target Demographic: Skribbl caters to individuals who relish interactive and social gaming experiences, bringing people together through creativity.

Three Standout Features:

• Real-time, Multiplayer Functionality: Enjoy the thrill of drawing and guessing in real-time with friends or other players.
• Private Room Creation: Create a private gaming space to compete against friends or specific opponents.
• Point System: Earn points for successful drawings and quick guesses, adding a competitive edge to the gaming experience.

2. Sketchful.io

Sketchful.io is akin to Pictionary, where each round features a different player drawing while others attempt to guess. The game is suitable for those who enjoy the art of drawing and guessing.

Target Demographic: Individuals who appreciate drawing and guessing games will find Sketchful.io to be an entertaining and engaging choice.

Three Standout Features:

• Round-based Gameplay: Engage in rounds where different players take turns drawing, adding variety to each gaming session.
• Massively Multiplayer Free to Play: Enjoy the game with a large community of players, making it a vibrant and dynamic experience.
• Point-Based Winner: The player with the most points at the end of the game secures victory, adding a competitive element to the gameplay.

3. Gartic.io

Gartic.io is an online drawing and guessing game that challenges players to sketch and identify words as swiftly as possible. The game is designed for those who revel in fast-paced and competitive drawing games.

• Target Demographic: Gartic.io appeals to individuals seeking the excitement of quick and competitive drawing challenges in an online setting.

Three Standout Features:

• Emphasis on Speed: Challenge yourself and others to draw and guess words as rapidly as you can, adding an element of urgency to the game.
• Join Worldwide Rooms or Create Your Own: Connect with players globally or create your gaming space for personalized competitions.
• Point-Based Victory: Like the other apps, Gartic.io determines the winner based on the player with the most points at the game’s conclusion.

4. Drawception

Drawception is a web-based multiplayer drawing and guessing game that intertwines the classic Telephone game with drawing. It creates unpredictable and chaotic outcomes, targeting individuals who relish large multiplayer games with a creative twist.

Target Demographic: Aimed at those who enjoy the unpredictability of combining drawing with the Telephone game in a large multiplayer setting.

Three Standout Features:

• Unique Combination of Drawing and Telephone: Experience the unexpected as drawings evolve through a chain of players, reminiscent of the classic Telephone game.
• Customizable Game Sizes: Create games with 12, 15, or 24 random players, offering flexibility in the size of your creative community.
• Virtual Store for Cosmetic Items: Purchase cosmetic color palettes and tools to enhance your drawing experience from the in-game virtual store.

5. Adobe Photoshop Sketch

Adobe Photoshop Sketch is a drawing app by Adobe designed for artists and graphic designers. It provides realistic painting and drawing tools, offering a digital canvas for creative expression.

Target Demographic: Tailored for artists and graphic designers seeking a digital platform with sophisticated drawing and painting capabilities.

Three Standout Features:

• Realistic Painting and Drawing Tools: Mimic natural media effects with tools that replicate traditional artistic techniques.
• Seamless Integration with Adobe Ecosystem: Share sketches on Behance or send them to Photoshop for further editing, ensuring a seamless creative workflow.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Available on both iOS and Android devices, offering flexibility in device choices for users.

6. LetsDraw.It

LetsDraw.It is a multiplayer online drawing game that combines guessing and drawing. Players guess others’ drawings and take turns creating their own, fostering interactive and social gaming experiences.

Target Demographic: Geared towards individuals who enjoy engaging and social drawing games, offering themed rooms and a variety of creative challenges.

Three Standout Features:

• Themed Rooms: Each room has its own theme, challenging players to create drawings that align with the designated theme.
• User-Created Rooms: Exercise creativity by creating new rooms with themes of your choice, customizing the gaming experience.
• Multi-Window Mode: Play multiple games simultaneously by switching to multi-window mode, enhancing the interactive and social gaming dynamics.

7. Adobe Illustrator Draw

Adobe Illustrator Draw is a vector illustration app by Adobe, designed for professional artists and designers seeking precision in their work.

Target Demographic: Geared towards professional artists and designers looking for advanced features in vector illustration.

Three Standout Features:

• Crisp, Scalable Graphics: Create detailed and scalable graphics suitable for professional use.
• Advanced Color Options: Explore a spectrum of color options and manipulate lines and shapes with precision.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Accessible on both iOS and Android devices, ensuring flexibility in device choices for users.

8. Autodesk Sketchbook

Autodesk Sketchbook is a professional-grade painting and drawing application, catering to creative professionals such as architects, designers, and concept artists.

Target Demographic: Aimed at creative professionals seeking advanced painting and drawing tools for their projects.

Three Standout Features:

• Radial/Pie-Menu UI: Navigate a user-friendly interface with radial menus, providing quick access to tools.
• Traditional Material Effects: Achieve effects resembling traditional art materials like pencils, markers, and brushes.
• Adobe Photoshop Compatibility: Supports layers with import and export functionality to Adobe Photoshop (.psd) format.

9. Astropad Studio

Description: Astropad Studio transforms your iPad into a professional graphics tablet for Mac or PC, offering features tailored for creatives both in the studio and on the go.

Target Demographic: Targeted at creatives who desire a versatile graphics tablet solution compatible with various creative programs.

Three Standout Features:

• Customizable Shortcuts and Gestures: Personalize your workflow with customizable shortcuts, gestures, and Apple Pencil settings.
• Wide Software Compatibility: Compatible with creative programs like Adobe, Affinity, Clip Studio, and Krita.
• LIQUID Technology: Proprietary video technology ensures low-latency performance and stunning image quality.

10. Affinity Designer

Affinity Designer is a vector graphics editor developed by Serif, catering to professional graphic designers.

Target Demographic: Tailored for graphic designers seeking powerful vector editing capabilities.

Three Standout Features:

• Support for Custom Brushes: Create and use custom vector and raster brushes for diverse artistic expressions.
• Non-Destructive Editing: Enjoy non-destructive editing features across unlimited layers, allowing experimentation without permanent changes.
• Color Model Support: Support for various color models, including RGB, RGB Hex, LAB, CMYK, and Grayscale, along with PANTONE color swatches.

Conclusion

The development of a drawing app like Draw Something is a creative and exciting journey that combines innovative technology with artistic expression. Throughout this blog, we explored the essential features and considerations for creating a successful drawing application, from user-friendly interfaces to advanced drawing tools. As technology continues to advance, the potential for these apps to enhance the digital art experience is limitless. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a budding artist, the world of drawing app development offers a canvas for endless possibilities.

Looking to Develop an Art Game App?

If you’re passionate about diving into the realm of drawing app development, Ideausher is your ideal partner. From conceptualizing unique ideas to transforming them into seamless mobile and web applications, Ideausher is committed to bringing your vision to life. Our team of experienced developers and designers is ready to collaborate with you, ensuring that your drawing app stands out in the digital landscape. Let’s turn your artistic dreams into reality with Ideausher’s expertise in app development.

FAQs

Q1. What technologies are suitable for a drawing app?

A1: To develop a drawing app, consider utilizing native technologies like Swift for iOS and Kotlin/Java for Android to leverage platform-specific capabilities. Alternatively, explore cross-platform frameworks such as React Native or Flutter, providing a unified codebase for efficient multi-platform development.

Q2. What features are essential for a drawing app like Draw Something?

A2: Critical features for a drawing app include real-time drawing, multiplayer functionality, a diverse color palette, brush customization, in-app chatting, and seamless social media integration. These elements collectively enhance the user experience, fostering creativity and interaction within the app.

Q3. How can I ensure smooth real-time drawing?

A3: Ensure a seamless real-time drawing experience by implementing a robust backend powered by technologies like WebSockets. This technology facilitates low-latency communication between users during drawing sessions, enhancing overall responsiveness and user satisfaction.

Q4. What security measures should be in place for user data?

A4: To protect user data, prioritize secure data transmission using encryption protocols. Additionally, implement stringent user authentication mechanisms to ensure user privacy, safeguarding sensitive information within the app’s ecosystem.