Before CS 247G, my interaction with games was purely as a player seeking escape or a little challenge. I was on a conventional path in big tech, intrigued by its vastness and technological advancements. But stepping into the realm of game design opened a new chapter that I hadn’t anticipated—it was like discovering a secret level in a familiar game, revealing depths and complexities that captivated my curiosity and creativity.
The course threw us headfirst into the intricacies of game design and development. Every class session was a new challenge, pushing us to conceptualize ideas, understand the technical frameworks that support games, and engage in rapid prototyping. This process wasn’t just about making games; it was about rethinking how games could influence players and communities. This holistic view on game development wasn’t something I had encountered in my big tech experiences, where projects often felt segmented and distant from end-user engagement.
One of the most profound lessons was the delicate balance between gameplay mechanics and player engagement. Understanding the psychological aspects that keep players engaged taught me that game design is as much about psychology and storytelling as it is about coding and mechanics. This insight shifted my approach from a tech-centric view to a more holistic, player-focused perspective.
Implementing these concepts, especially during our P2 project, was both challenging and enlightening. Integrating a meaningful narrative into a simple game design tested my abilities and pushed me to find innovative solutions to maintain gameplay simplicity while delivering rich story experiences. The feedback from peers and instructors was crucial, turning each piece of critique into a valuable lesson in adaptability and resilience—skills that are vital in game design and were not as emphasized in my big tech roles.
What made the class truly special were the playtests. Sharing our creations and seeing them come to life during these sessions was incredibly rewarding. It was a testament to the hard work and passion that everyone poured into their projects. Beyond the technical skills, the class nurtured a sense of community and collaboration. I made lasting friendships and connections, further enriching my learning experience.
This course has profoundly impacted my career outlook. While I value my time in big tech, the allure of game design—its creativity, its impact on players, and its collaborative nature—is something I find increasingly compelling. As I look to the future, I am more inclined to pivot towards a career in game design. I am excited to explore further and utilize the lessons from CS 247G to craft games that aren’t just fun to play but also offer meaningful experiences to players. The path ahead is like a new game level—challenging, unknown, but thrilling, and I am ready to play.
In essence, CS 247G didn’t just teach me about game design; it invited me to become a part of it. As I continue to develop my own games, I’m committed to keeping player experiences at the core of my work and embracing the collaborative spirit that makes game design uniquely rewarding. Here’s to the next adventure in game design, where the possibilities are as limitless as our imagination.
