Hey everyone! I’m diving into the world of game design and excited to share what I’m learning with you. In this article, I’ll be breaking down the basics of the game designer’s role straight from my course notes.
Unfortunately, people often ask if we made Minecraft, assume we play games all day, and are unsure about what game designers actually do. But our job is about much more than just coming up with an idea; we design every aspect of a game. So, let’s break it down with some explanations and key points that I took during my course.
- The goal of a game designer: Our main aim is to create captivating virtual worlds and experiences for players, much like architects design buildings. We meticulously craft every aspect of a game, from its setting and characters to its gameplay mechanics, to ensure an immersive experience that players will enjoy.
- Game design process: We start by creating detailed plans, like design documents or prototypes. These plans serve as the foundation for the game’s development, which involves collaboration with programmers and artists to bring the game to life. It’s a creative process that requires careful planning and teamwork.
- Importance of experience: As game designers, we’re like experience planners, deciding what will happen inside the virtual worlds we create. Every decision we make, from level design to gameplay mechanics, is aimed at providing players with an enjoyable and memorable experience.
- Writing rules of play: We establish the rules of the game, which guide players’ actions and experiences. These rules ensure fair and consistent gameplay, while also allowing for creativity and exploration.
- Teaching through play: We design games to be easy to learn, allowing players to understand the rules through gameplay itself. By providing clear feedback and opportunities for experimentation, we empower players to learn and master the game at their own pace.
- Transition from documents to games: Our design documents and prototypes serve as the blueprint for the game’s development. As the game progresses, we work with a team to refine and update these documents to reflect changes and improvements.
- Ultimate goal: Our ultimate goal as game designers is to create experiences that entertain, inspire, and engage players. Whether it’s exploring a fantastical world or overcoming challenges in a virtual environment, our aim is to provide players with memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact.
For those new to game design, it’s important to remember that the process can be challenging but rewarding. With dedication and practice, anyone can learn the skills needed to become a successful game designer.