Computer Game Designer

OFO No: 251301

Other names for Computer / Video Game Designer:

What is a Computer / Video Game Designer?

If you love computer / video games, then being a Computer / Video Game Designer may be your dream job.

The computer / video game design industry is a booming and highly competitive industry.

• Video Game Designers are in demand!

A Computer / Video Game Designer is like a scriptwriter for the movies, but works in the field of computer simulation (imitating the appearance of reality).

Their only limitations are their own imagination and their client’s budget.

Computer / Video Game Designers are the creative thinkers in the development of a game, and they become the storytellers in how the game is to be played. They are master storytellers involved from the development of the game right through to its ending.
To be successful, Computer / Video Game Designers need to be extremely imaginative. 

Computer / Video Game Designers may specialise in certain skills: some may be brilliant at designing puzzles, while others may specialise in creating entertaining storylines.  Often computer / video game programmers will seek a Video Game Designer based on what the game needs and the designer’s reputation.

A Computer / Video Game Designer maybe considered a Graphic Designer who specialises in 3D Graphics.

They may be employed in a company, freelance or do contractual work on a part-time basis.

There are different styles of computer games:

Simulation

where the player takes on a real-world situation

Strategy

 where the player takes on opponents using strategic and tactical moves

Role-playing

 where the player controls characters in fantasy or science fiction environments

Action

 where the player needs a quick eye and reaction to make his moves against a character

What does a Computer / Video Game Programmer do?

• meets with clients to discuss requirements
• explains to clients what is technically possible
  
• works with a team of developers, programmers, and other designers
• designs the layouts and settings of different levels in the game
• plans the game’s storyline
• creates characters
• presents finished design to clients
  
• keeps up to date wiht technology developments
  
• tests a copy of the game for snags and problems

Are you … ?

• imaginative?
• willing to work long hours?
• interested in computer programming, animation, and graphics?
• organized?
• able to work in a team?
• analytical?
• a good communicator?

How do I become a Computer / Video Game Designer?

There are a number of ways to study.

PATH 1

Diploma in Multi-Media

• Cape Peninsula University of Technology
• Tshwane Univeersity of Technology
• University of Johannesburg

PATH 2

Bachelor of Technology Multi-Media 

• Cape Peninsula University of Technology
• Tshwane Univeersity of Technology
• University of Johannesburg
• Vaal University of Technology

PATH 3

Bachelor of Multi-Media

• University of Johannesburg
• University of Pretoria

Here are a few other examples:

• NEMISA: (National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa)

Offers a 3 year Animation programme

• THE ANIMATION SCHOOL

• SAE INSTITUTE

Higher Certificate in Animation & Visual Effects

• PRESTIGE ACADEMY

Offers a 2 year Diploma in 3D Dsign & Digital Animation

• BOSTON MEDIA HOUSE

Offers a 3 year Diploma in 3D Animation Concept Art

• UNIVERSITY OF WITWATERSRAND

Offers: 

3 year Bachelor of Engineering Science in Digital Art BEngSc (Digital Art)

Bachelor of Arts in Performing & Visual Arts majoring in Game Design BAPVA (Game Design)

Here is a rough guideline:

Grade 12
English
Mathematics
Portfolio of work

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Graphic Designer … or … Web Designer

Is becoming a Computer / Video Game Designer the right career choice for me?