The increasing global advancement in internet technologies and digital platforms has led to the widespread use of computer games. By the end of 2016, statistics indicated that the number of individuals playing digital games worldwide exceeded two billion, leading to increased investment in this field and profits for many companies and independent designers. In 2020, the number of digital game users multiplied several times, and the new generation, across various ages and genders, became more connected to the digital world. Digital game developers who understand the needs of the digital age and the economy and who possess the infrastructure and fundamental concepts for developing innovative businesses to produce digital games and content are the actual sponsors of the real growth of the digital games market.
Digital game design combines technology and artistic creativity to create distinctive video games that suit players’ tastes. It is one of the artistic specialties that expands and evolves according to modern advancements, the development of computer software usage, and the innovation of new programs that facilitate the professional game design process.
The game design process begins with selecting an idea, visualizing it, and then designing the visual effects of images and graphics, audio effects, the game’s scenario, and creating the game’s main characters. In the final stage, the designer starts the implementation phase through programming.
Tasks of a Digital Game Designer
Designing various components of the game, including:
- Designing game characters
- Designing the environment and world where game characters exist
- Designing game levels and the content of each level
- Designing the game interface with its details
- Designing visual and audio effects in the game
- Preparing a software system to run the game
Academic Program Content for Digital Game Design
The study of digital game design is divided into practical and theoretical parts, with practical application predominating the theoretical part. Universities provide students with modern computers and various software programs to assist them in conducting professional applications in the world of digital game design. Below is the academic program content for the specialization at one of the Turkish universities. You can learn about the program content at the university where you wish to study by visiting its official website.
First Academic Year
- Programming Basics
- Design Thinking
- Game History and Analysis
- Art, Culture, and Society
- Game Design Fundamentals
Second Academic Year
- 3D Digital Art
- Communication Skills
- Introduction to Game Engines
Third Academic Year
- Media and Communication Theories
- Game Production
- Turkish Language and Literature
Fourth Academic Year
- Digital Game Design Project
- Summer Internship
Job Opportunities for Digital Game Design Graduates
- Video game programming
- Digital game development
- Software development
- Working in technical support departments
