Custom C++ Game Engine Devlog | FreeType, VFX Editor & Post Processing

Building a custom C++ game engine from scratch! In this Scion2D development log, I replace stb_truetype with FreeType, begin work on a new VFX Editor, and add layer-based post processing to the rendering pipeline. Scion2D is a custom 2D game engine written in C++23 using OpenGL 4.6, SDL3, EnTT ECS, Lua (sol2), and ImGui. Everything in the engine and editor is built from scratch, including the renderer, editor tools, scripting integration, asset pipeline, animation systems, and gameplay features. In this update: • FreeType Integration Replaced stb_truetype with FreeType Improved font rendering quality Better glyph handling and future text rendering support • VFX Editor Early implementation of a visual effects editor Foundation for creating custom effects directly inside the engine Future support for JRPG abilities, spells, particles, and combat effects • Layer-Based Post Processing Apply post-processing effects to specific sprite layers Darken background layers while keeping gameplay elements fully visible More control over scene presentation and visual depth • General Engine Improvements Rendering updates Workflow improvements Continued progress toward shipping a commercial JRPG The goal is to build both a complete custom game engine and a commercial JRPG from scratch. Art used in video: OpenGameArt https://opengameart.org/content/antif... OpenGameArt https://opengameart.org/content/mage-... GitHub Repository https://github.com/dwjclark11/Scion2D JadeiteLite Tutorial Repository https://github.com/Jadeite-Games-Stud... Udemy Course Build Games in the Browser with C++ and WebAssembly https://www.udemy.com/course/build-ga... Discord Community   / discord   If you're interested in game engine development, C++ programming, OpenGL, rendering systems, visual effects, indie game development, or building your own engine from scratch, consider subscribing for future Scion2D devlogs and tutorials. #gamedev #cpp #gameengine #opengl #freetype #indiedev