Designer games, also known as board games or tabletop games, have seen a resurgence in recent years, driven by an increasing desire for physical social interaction as an alternative to digital engagement. The artistry involved in creating these games is often overlooked, and requires a distinctive blend of skills across design, storytelling, and mechanics. Designer games are not just fun to play; they are also treasured for their physical aesthetics and can be seen as works of art in their own right.
In stark contrast to video games, which rely extensively on the latest technology, designer games have their roots in a more traditionalist approach. Their allure lies in their tangibility – beautiful artwork on the game board and cards, meticulously crafted game pieces, and the tactile sensation of handling physical items during play. The creation of these elements requires significant expertise, often necessitating qualifications such as a visual communication course Australia.
A visual communication course in Australia can equip aspiring game designers with the necessary skills to excel in the realm of designer games. Moreover, these courses could prepare students for the challenges faced during the game development process. Designing board games demands a deep understanding of visual elements, design principles, and an ability to effectively communicate an idea or theme through imagery and physical components.
During such courses, students can learn about typography, colour theory, and layout design. This learning provides the ability to create visually compelling and easy to understand game components. Further, advanced modules may delve into the creation of symbols and iconography, essential skills when designing game tokens or cards. Understanding cultural sensitivities and perception can also be intrinsic in conveying a theme accurately, especially crucial for games set in particular historical periods or geographic locations.
Aside from aesthetics, a well-designed game must be functional and enjoyable to play. Game mechanics and rules need to be carefully considered and iteratively tested to ensure balance and engagement – skills that can be honed through studies in game theory and user experience design. Narrative development, another crucial aspect of game design, involves crafting a compelling backstory or theme that can captivate and immerse players in the game world.
A designer game usually requires a team of creatives to produce. A project lead that drives the vision of the game, artists and designers to bring the aesthetics to life, writers and researchers for narrative development, and engineers to design and test game mechanics. A visual communication course can prepare individuals to take on multiple roles within this team, providing a holistic understanding of what makes a game engaging and visually stunning.
In conclusion, designer games are much more than simple entertainment tools. They are a medium through which stories, cultures, and experiences are communicated. Each game is a unique blend of art, science, and storytelling which resonates with players in deeply immersive ways. The resurgence of designer games has revealed a complex and diverse field where creatives from vastly different disciplines come together to craft games that engage, intrigue, and ultimately brings people together – and a visual communication course Australia can provide an aspiring game designer the essential skills needed to embark on this creative journey.
