Game Design Foundations I
Learn to deconstruct games, tackle design problems, create great user experiences, write design documents, and develop a game pitch. Finish with a playable game!
Qualification
Duration
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Value
Learn game design from the experts
Uncover what makes a video game compelling and build a foundation in designing game systems
This course emphasizes the importance of moving beyond design theories and quickly turning game ideas into playable prototypes. Game designers can easily become immersed in design theories and abstract concepts, but most ideas truly come to life through hands-on experience. In this course, you’ll learn how to transform your ideas into playable realities and discover the essential elements that make a game engaging and enjoyable.
The NJIT // Flatiron Difference
Learn from game experts with real-world experience
Small group classes
We are an Unreal Authorized Training Center and Academic Partner
Blizzard Entertainment training partner
Upon completion of this program, you'll be able to move on to Game Design Foundations II.
Program prerequisites: Game Design Essentials
Curriculum
Industry-focused online course to launch your career as a game designer
Core Game Design Principles and Prototyping - 12 weeks
In this program, you'll learn how to bring your ideas to life and find out what goes into making a fun and compelling game. Using the concepts, processes, and theories you learned in essentials, you'll learn how to validate and express your ideas then apply your new skills and knowledge of level and game systems design to tackle a more complex level design problems and areas by creating your own playable game prototype in Unreal Engine.
What you'll learn:
- Design advanced game systems, maps, and assets
- Create a compelling game pitch
- Use the Unreal Engine to design and build games
- Whitebox a level in Unreal Engine
Portfolio project: UE beautiful corner prototype
Weekly breakdown:
- Core Systems
- Player Systems
- Level Design
- Implementing Gameplay
- Systems in Levels
- Whiteboxing
- Combat Systems
- Characters & Animations
- NPCs
- Advanced Level Gameplay
- Detailing Levels
- Polishing
Tuition
Upfront - Save 8%
$4,100
Pay as You Go
$4,500
3 monthly payments of $1,500
FAQs
Yes! Upon the completion of each program in the pathway, you will receive a certificate of completion from Flatiron School.
Yes, all programs offered by NJIT + Flatiron are delivered entirely online. This format provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to learn from anywhere while balancing other commitments. The online experience includes live interactive virtual classes led by skilled instructors, collaborative projects, and comprehensive support services to ensure a rich and engaging learning journey.
Your monthly financed payment is based on your credit score. The amount shown reflects the lowest possible rate. To explore your financing options, schedule a call with an admissions representative today.
Our programs are not currently set up to accept military benefits, such as the GI Bill, as a form of payment directly from the student at this time. However, if your military benefits can be arranged to pay the school directly, this may be an option in rare cases.
No, you do not need a college degree to enroll in our programs. A high school diploma or GED is the only educational requirement. Our programs are designed to be accessible to a wide range of students with diverse backgrounds.
No, we do not accept FAFSA or traditional financial aid for our programs. However, we do offer loans for full-time students, as well as interest-free installment plans and upfront payment options for everyone else. Please contact us for more details about these flexible payment options.
It is occasionally possible to skip the Essentials program and go directly to Foundations I. However, we highly recommend that most students do not skip Essentials as it covers a tremendous amount of information and skills that will be used throughout the entire career pathway program and will require some catching up if skipped. The Essentials program is still difficult and covers a great deal of material that is necessary for proceeding in the following programs and won't be reviewed in Foundations. All of the future program material will build upon the essentials. If you would like to be considered to enter directly into the Foundations-level programs, you'll be required to submit materials demonstrating your proficiency in the materials covered in the Essentials program.
Nope! This program is designed for complete beginners—no experience required.
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Ready to Change the Game?
Whether you want to build games, design products, prevent the next cyber attack, or create the next internet-breaking AI, we provide the training to bring your ideas to life.
Let's build your future together.