Video game designers are there to translate ideas into images. In the past, video games were mainly designed in 2D, but 3D is now firmly established in the industry.
What is a video game designer?
A video game designer translates ideas into images. In the past, video games were mainly designed in 2D, but 3D is now firmly established in the industry.
The graphic designer is essential for successfully designing the visuals of games and giving them artistic coherence.
Qualities and skills
Video game designers are curious and passionate about the arts. Using their pencils or mouse, they are capable of analysing and expressing an idea through images.
To help them in their work, graphic designers must master specialist software. They must also be rigorous, producing quality elements that fit together perfectly. There are always a huge number of elements to produce in a short space of time, so it’s all about being efficient and fast!
Making video games today means working in a company, as part of a team. It’s a job “like any other”, but with a playful aim: to create entertainment.
ESMA AT THE HEART OF THE PROFESSION
Computer graphics for video games is commonly referred to as Game Art, because the profession, whatever its specialisation, is becoming increasingly technical.
ESMA’s Illustrator Concept Artist and Video Game Designer courses are accessible after the baccalauréat. Students are selected on the basis of their academic and artistic records, and a motivational interview.
There is a compulsory internship of at least 8 weeks during the two years of study, which covers both artistic and general subjects. The emphasis is on illustration, 2D and 3D graphics, mastery of games production software and video game culture, which is central to the curriculum
Career opportunities
A video game graphic designer may be called upon to do a number of different jobs in the course of their career, depending on their specialisation.
They can work as ‘generalist’ graphic designers in a small studio, or become Concept Artists, Character Designers, Environment Designers, 3D Computer Graphics Artists, 2D Computer Graphics Artists, Game Artist Modellers, Digital Sculptors, or even Art Directors!
