Gameplay designers are responsible for the central part of the game experience – how it plays.They design the mechanics of the game - how high a character can jump, how long it takes to accelerate to maximum speed or when you can gain points. They plan and define the game’s structure, its rules, characters, objects, props and vehicles and think about different modes of play, like story mode or multi-player.
Gameplay designers are a bridge between the technical and arts teams. If the gameplay is too difficult to achieve technically, they figure out what’s possible and re-write the specification accordingly. Likewise, if the programmers develop the game engine in a way that means new, exciting things can be done, the gameplay designer works out how to incorporate those into the game. They also train testers to play the game, making sure that they understand what’s expected of the finished product.
People become gameplay designers having worked in games for several years. They come through the art department or through programming. Have a look at the generalist programmer job profile or the 3D modelling artist job profile for full details of how to get into the games industry through these routes.
At school or college: This is a role where both art and science is useful.
If you want to go to university: Take A-levels, Highers or Level 3 BTECs in a combination of arts and sciences from the following subjects.
Art
Art and design
Graphic design
Graphic communication
Computer science
Mathematics
Physics
BTEC Diploma in Computing
If you want to go straight into a job or apprenticeship, the following Level 3 qualifications will help equip you:
BTEC Diploma in Computing for Creative Industries
AQA Technical Level IT: Programming
OCR Technical Diploma in IT (Digital Software Practitioner)
Play games: Play lots of different games. Think about how the game mechanics works.
Build a portfolio: Create work that you can show off to employers. This is essential. Go to build your games portfolioto learn how.
Start modding: Create levels of a game using software provided by the publishers.
Get a degree: Most people in the games industry have a degree. Get one in games art, graphic design, 3D digital art, computer science or programming. Have a look at ScreenSkills’ list of recommended courses in games. We recognise courses with our ScreenSkills Select award where they offer training in the relevant software, dedicated time to building a portfolio and have strong links with the games industry.
Network: Get to know people in the games industry by attending events, including games conferences and expos. Meet professionals and ask them questions about their work, while demonstrating interest and knowledge in the industry. Offer to provide them with your professional contact details and try to stay in touch with them. Go to how to network well to learn how to do this.
Search for jobs: If you already have experience as a games programmer or artist, use the UK Games Map to find out if there are games companies near you. Then go to their websites directly and check out their open roles. Look for roles as a junior programmer or junior artist first as a way of getting into gameplay design.
Network: Go to games expos and conferences. Talk to people in the industry. Ask if there are any jobs going.
