Videogame design is a fascinating blend of creativity, technical skill, and passion for interactive entertainment. It involves the creation of a simulated environment wherein players can engage and interact. Creating a compelling video game demands more than just a big idea. It involves rigorous planning, scripting, and programming, but even before diving into those, understanding the medium, foundation, and applying concepts of digital design and media are elemental.

Why is digital design important in video games?

The world of video games has progressed drastically, from pixel art of the 80s arcade games to the hyper-realistic design of the modern era. The advancement links directly to the evolution of digital design and media. Digital design allows game designers to create complex and visually stunning game environments. It enhances the user experience, making games feel more immersive and realistic.

Beginning a video game project

A video game project starts with a core idea. It could be anything, like a unique gameplay mechanism, a compelling storyline, or a distinctive art style. Once you have that core idea, you build around it – shaping characters, environments, and plotlines.

Game Mechanics

Game mechanics are the rules that guide the player’s actions and interactions within the game. While they might seem simple, they form the structure of the game. This structure can guide or restrict a gamer’s actions in the virtual world. Designing these requires a good understanding of the game environment, as well as a comprehensive understanding of user interface and user interaction principles.

Narrative

While some games do not need a comprehensive narrative and focus solely on gameplay, most games utilise some form of narrative to engross players. A well-structured narrative augments the gaming experience, making it more emotionally engaging.

Aesthetics

This is where digital design and media shine the most. Art direction affects how a game feels and looks. It has a considerable influence on the game feels and attracts players. Aesthetic design includes character design, environmental design, and interface design. A designer should have a clear idea of the aesthetic of the game, whether it’s bright and colorful, dark and gritty, or something else entirely.

Sound

Sound design in video games is critical as it enhances the gaming experience. It helps strengthen the game’s immersive quality by adding another layer of realism and can also serve a functional purpose by signalling to players about off-screen events or an enemy’s approach, among other things.

Technology and Platforms

Designers have wide choices of programming languages, game engines, and platforms to develop games. Depending on the game idea, required capabilities, the target audience platforms such as PC, mobile, console, or virtual reality could be selected. Additionally, game engines like Unreal and Unity are prominent tools in the game industry that aid in game development.

Conclusion

To successfully design a video game, one must master the concept of digital design and media, narrative structure, game mechanics, aesthetics, sound design, and a technical understanding of game engines and platforms. As the gaming industry continues to evolve and grow, it will increasingly provide opportunities for digital designers to create unique, engaging and immersive video games.