Game designers plan and define all elements of a game such as its setting, structure, rules, story, characters, objects, and modes of play. They communicate this design to the development team who create the art and code to bring the game to life. Game designers are usually part of a team overseen by a lead designer. They must understand different hardware platforms and have skills in collaboration, communication, creativity, and an awareness of game design theory. While no specific qualifications are required, most people entering the industry have a degree, and experience in programming, art, animation, and user interface design is beneficial.

1. Knowledge and Skills
Game Designers devise what a game consists of and how it plays. They plan and define all
the elements of a game: its setting; structure; rules; story flow; characters; the objects, props,
vehicles, and devices available to the characters; interface design; and modes of play. Once
the game is devised, the Game Designer communicates this to the rest of the development
team who create the art assets and computer code that allow the game to be played.
Sometimes the Game Designer comes up with the gameʼs premise. More often, most of the
core ingredients are already defined and they must decide how to create the best game
using these elements, within a certain budget and timescale. Game Designers are employed
by development studios, both independent and publisher-owned. The game design process
is usually shared between a number of different people, overseen by a Lead Designer. Game
Designers should have a deep understanding of the capabilities and benefits of different
hardware platforms (e.g. PC, console, mobile device, etc.), as well as familiarity with software
technologies and techniques appropriate to each platform.
GAMES DESIGNER - COMPUTER GAMES
Career Roles
Be able to work in collaboration with multi-disciplinary teams. Be able to communicate your
vision to artists, programmers, producers, marketing staff, and others involved in the
development process. Be able to accept constructive feedback on your work. Be able to
present your ideas both verbally and on paper. Be imaginative and creative. Have good
written and verbal communication skills. Have good basic visual design and drawing skills.
Be reasonably fluent in a range of 2D and 3D graphics and animation packages, such as 3D
Studio Max, NUKE or Maya. Have some programming skills at least at ʻscriptingʼ level. Have
an awareness of the various games platforms and technologies. Possess a thorough
understanding of game play theory. Have storytelling and narrative development skills. Be
skilled in information design and user interface design. Be able to think systematically and
strategically. Have knowledge of the requirements of the relevant health and safety
legislation and procedure.
Training and Qualifications
You donʼt need a specific qualification to be a Game Designer. However, most people
entering the industry are graduates. Thereʼs no set route you can follow to become a Game
Designer. However, this is not an entry-level role. Game development is a highly complex,
intensive process which can last up to two years or more, requiring teams of programmers,
artists, project managers, writers, musicians and many others.
Tommy Refenes is an American video game
designer and programmer, best known for his
work on the game Super Meat Boy, a platformer
he co-created with developer Edmund McMillan