What should I expect from a Video Game Design Major?

Hey, I'm super interested in video games and I've been thinking about taking it up as a major in college. Could anybody enlighten me on what studying a Video Game Design major typically entails? What subjects should I expect, and what skills do I need to succeed in it?

Video Game Design majors learn how to create, design, and manage video games, discovering both the artistic and the technical aspects of the field. The coursework typically includes areas like computer science, graphic design, storytelling and narrative development, character creation, animation, game theory, and even psychology.

The curriculum usually emphasizes learning programming languages like C++ and Python that are crucial for game development. You'll also study 2D and 3D modeling, animation, and digital painting to build worlds and characters that are visually compelling. On the storytelling side, you'll work on creating engaging narratives and character development which are very important to engage players and retain their interest in the game. Another important area is game theory, where you'll learn about how games are structured and what makes a game enjoyable or challenging.

However, it's not all coding and computers. You'll also likely cover topics like game marketing and player psychology. Understanding customer behavior and the business side of gaming can be just as important as knowing how to develop a game, particularly if you see yourself becoming involved in the business or entrepreneurship sector of the gaming industry.

Apart from the coursework, working on a lot of projects will be a major part of the learning experience. These projects will give you a chance to apply what you've learned, work in teams, and develop a portfolio that can be crucial when applying for jobs after graduation.

As for skills, in addition to a passion for gaming, problem-solving is crucial in this field because a lot of game design involves overcoming technical and design challenges. Artistic ability can be helpful, especially if you're interested in the visual aspect of game design. Programming skills are also important, and the more languages you're fluent in, the better. Since many games are developed by teams, good communication and collaboration skills are also beneficial. Lastly, it's essential to stay up-to-date on technology trends within the gaming industry since it's ever-evolving.

Remember that the specific courses and experiences will vary depending on the program, so researching and comparing program descriptions from different schools is a good idea. It's always beneficial to learn from others working in the field or studying this major, and they can offer insight into their experiences as well.