Foundations of Video Game Design: From Concept to Narrative
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Foundations of Video Game Design: From Concept to Narrative
This course is part of Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design Specialization
Instructor: Wiley Skills Network
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What you'll learn
Learn the fundamental principles of video game design, including ideation and documentation.
Understand how to create narrative-driven game concepts and characters.
Develop essential game design documents for organizing and refining ideas.
Details to know
June 2026
4 assignments
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There are 4 modules in this course
This course introduces the fundamental aspects of video game design, focusing on concept ideation, narrative development, and the creation of structured game designs. It covers the evolution of gaming, highlighting industry roles and the creative process involved in shaping game ideas into well-defined concepts. Through structured game design documentation and narrative design, learners will gain the tools to transform their creative ideas into viable game designs.
The course emphasizes a mix of conceptual frameworks, real-world examples, and practical guidance to help learners understand the mechanics of video game design. By applying these principles, learners will explore ways to develop engaging narratives, create memorable characters, and ensure their concepts are suitable for production. What sets this course apart is its emphasis on balancing theoretical foundations with real-world application. It equips learners with the skills to document, refine, and improve game concepts, creating a strong foundation for aspiring game designers. This course is suitable for anyone interested in game design, especially those looking to enter the industry. Whether you're just starting out or seeking to formalize your knowledge, this course offers a structured approach to video game design. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to provide a comprehensive learning pathway in this subject area. While it delivers standalone value and practical skills, learners seeking a more integrated and in-depth progression may benefit from completing the full Specialization. From Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design Copyright © 2025 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights, including for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies, are reserved. Illustrations in this course are copyright © 2025 Scott Rogers. Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
This module introduces the foundational concepts of video games, including their history, key components, and the various roles involved in game development. Learners will explore how games have evolved over time, the distinctions between AAA and indie games, and the responsibilities of different team members such as designers, composers, and community managers. By the end, you'll have a broad understanding of the game development landscape and the people who shape it.
What's included
1 video8 readings1 assignment
1 video•Total 1 minute
- Overview•1 minute
8 readings•Total 49 minutes
- Introduction•5 minutes
- A (Somewhat) Brief History of Video Games•8 minutes
- The Brave New World of Gaming: Mobiles, Online Distribution and Touchscreens•5 minutes
- What's the Difference Between AAA and Indy?•7 minutes
- Who Makes This Stuff?•6 minutes
- Designer•5 minutes
- Composer•6 minutes
- Community Manager•7 minutes
1 assignment•Total 16 minutes
- Foundations of Game Development•16 minutes
This module guides learners through the process of generating and refining video game ideas, exploring creative techniques, overcoming mental blocks, and considering player preferences. Learners will also examine the iterative nature of innovation in game design and analyze what makes games engaging beyond the concept of 'fun.'
What's included
1 video4 readings1 assignment
1 video•Total 1 minute
- Overview•1 minute
4 readings•Total 24 minutes
- Introduction•7 minutes
- Getting Ahead of the Game•6 minutes
- Brainstorming•6 minutes
- Why I Hate "Fun"•5 minutes
1 assignment•Total 16 minutes
- Exploring Game Design Fundamentals•16 minutes
This module explores how narrative and gameplay intertwine in game design, examining techniques for crafting engaging stories, developing memorable characters, and appealing to diverse player audiences. Learners will analyze the impact of story structure, game endings, and titles, as well as considerations for inclusivity and licensed properties. By the end, you'll understand how to create compelling narratives that enhance player experience.
What's included
1 video9 readings1 assignment
1 video•Total 1 minute
- Overview•1 minute
9 readings•Total 49 minutes
- Introduction•3 minutes
- Narrative Design•5 minutes
- Anything is Gameplay•4 minutes
- A Likely Story•6 minutes
- Time to Wrap It Up•7 minutes
- A Game by Any Other Name•6 minutes
- Creating Characters Your Players Care About•9 minutes
- Games Are About Everyone•5 minutes
- Writing for Licenses•4 minutes
1 assignment•Total 16 minutes
- Crafting Engaging Narratives in Games•16 minutes
This module guides learners through the essential steps of creating effective game design documentation, from concise one-sheets to comprehensive game design documents. You will explore best practices for structuring and refining your ideas, adapting documentation for different game genres, and fostering responsible design habits. By the end, you'll be equipped to communicate your game concepts clearly and professionally.
What's included
1 video11 readings1 assignment
1 video•Total 1 minute
- Overview•1 minute
11 readings•Total 65 minutes
- Introduction•5 minutes
- The Game Design Document•6 minutes
- Writing the GDD, Step 1: The One-Sheet•5 minutes
- Writing the GDD, Step 2: The Ten-Pager•4 minutes
- The Ten-Pager Outline•13 minutes
- Writing the GDD, Step 3: The Beat Chart•5 minutes
- Writing the GDD, Step 4: The Game Design Document•8 minutes
- Writing the GDD, Step 5: Be Responsible•6 minutes
- Writing the GDD, Step 6 – Other Game Genres•6 minutes
- Battle Royale•4 minutes
- Sports Games•3 minutes
1 assignment•Total 16 minutes
- Game Design Communication and Documentation Essentials•16 minutes
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