Game Development

Game development courses are aimed at people who love animation, coding and of course, gaming. Game development is  becoming increasingly sophisticated. That may be due to the fact that the average gamer is between the ages of 32 and 36. Like gamers, the industry has matured. It is now a major source of revenue, outperforming even the film industry.

Smartphones and tablets have opened up new gaming markets too. With this continuous growth, there is an ongoing demand for well-trained game developers and designers.

Education

Several institutes of technology, as well as the University of Limerick, run games development courses. Students will do modules in programming and software design. However, they also do specific modules on subjects such as Game Design, Interactive Storytelling, 3D Graphics, and Audio Technology, as well as Animation and Modelling.  Many of these courses have work placement opportunities as well.

In addition, there are several PLC programmes that introduce school-leavers to the computer game design and development industry. Among the places offering courses are Ballyfermot College of Further Education, Cavan Institute, O’Fiaich Institute, Templemichael College, and St John’s Central College.

Work

Graduates generally work as games developers and graphics programmers. However, they also have other options. As they understand programming, computer architecture and operating systems, they may also move into the adjacent realms of software development or systems analysis and design.

However, most graduates want to work in the games industry itself. This is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. As a result, the chances of graduates finding work are high.

Did you know?

The PSone was originally planned as a Nintendo console, with Sony set to design its electronic components. When Nintendo ditched the project, Sony decided to go ahead with the console anyway.