Game Design: Art and Concepts Specialization Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
A hands-on, conceptual program that guides you from beginner to game design-ready, balancing theory and practical design projects effectively. This specialization consists of five core courses and a final capstone project, each requiring approximately 4 weeks of effort at 3-5 hours per week. You'll progress from foundational game design principles to creating a fully playable game prototype, culminating in a portfolio-ready project. Total time commitment is approximately 20-25 hours per course, with a strong emphasis on creativity, iteration, and design thinking.
Module 1: Introduction to Game Design
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Game systems and core mechanics
- Rules and player interaction
- Playtesting fundamentals
- History of game design
Module 2: Principles of Game Design
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Player experience and engagement
- Game progression structures
- Feedback loops in gameplay
- Analysis of existing game designs
Module 3: Game Design Document: Define the Art & Concepts
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Character creation and development
- Worldbuilding and setting design
- Visual storytelling techniques
- Creating a comprehensive Game Design Document (GDD)
Module 4: Prototyping and Iteration
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Rapid prototyping methods
- User testing procedures
- Iteration cycles and design refinement
Module 5: Game Design: Capstone Project
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Team collaboration in game development
- Polishing game mechanics and aesthetics
- Presentation and pitch techniques
Module 6: Final Project
Estimated time: 20 hours
- Design and development of a complete playable game prototype
- Submission of a finalized Game Design Document
- Video presentation of gameplay and design choices
Prerequisites
- No prior experience required
- Basic computer literacy
- Access to Unity (free version) and paper prototyping materials
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Understand core game design principles from concept to execution
- Design and test paper and digital game prototypes
- Create engaging player experiences through feedback and progression
- Develop a compelling game world and narrative
- Build and present a portfolio-ready game project