🎨 Game Design

Learn the art and science of creating engaging gaming experiences through proven design principles and hands-on projects.

10 Lessons Intermediate Level

📋 Course Curriculum

Lesson 1: Foundations of Game Design

60 min

Understand what makes games fun, explore game design history, and learn the core principles that drive engaging experiences.

Game Theory Fun Factor Design History

Lesson 2: Player Psychology and Motivation

75 min

Dive deep into what motivates players, different player types, and how to design experiences that keep players engaged.

Player Types Motivation Flow State Engagement

Lesson 3: Game Mechanics and Systems

90 min

Learn about core game mechanics, how they interact to form systems, and how to balance complexity with accessibility.

Mechanics Systems Balance Complexity

Lesson 4: Level Design Principles

85 min

Master the art of creating compelling levels, from pacing and difficulty curves to environmental storytelling and player guidance.

Level Flow Difficulty Curves Pacing Player Guidance

Lesson 5: Narrative and Storytelling in Games

70 min

Explore different approaches to game storytelling, from linear narratives to emergent stories and environmental storytelling.

Narrative Design Character Development Environmental Story

Lesson 6: User Interface and User Experience

80 min

Learn to design intuitive interfaces that enhance rather than hinder gameplay, including HUD design and accessibility considerations.

UI Design UX Principles HUD Design Accessibility

Lesson 7: Game Balancing and Playtesting

95 min

Master the iterative process of game balancing, learn effective playtesting methods, and understand how to interpret player feedback.

Game Balance Playtesting Feedback Analysis Iteration

Lesson 8: Monetization and Game Economy

75 min

Understand different monetization models, design ethical in-game economies, and balance player value with business needs.

Monetization Game Economy Ethical Design Player Value

Lesson 9: Project - Design Document Creation

Project

Create a comprehensive game design document for your own game concept, applying all the principles learned throughout the course.

Design Document Game Concept Documentation

Lesson 10: Portfolio Review and Advanced Topics

Review

Review your design portfolio, explore advanced topics like multiplayer design and VR considerations, and prepare for Advanced Development.

Portfolio Review Advanced Topics Next Steps

🎨 Ready to Design Amazing Games?

Transform your game ideas into compelling experiences that players will love. Learn industry-proven design principles through hands-on projects.

⬅️ Back to Game School ⬅️ Previous: Programming ➡️ Next: Advanced Development