Path to Level Design
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Alright, here's the deal...
I've gone through six months of Full Sail's Game Development program. For those that may not be familiar with it, the program focuses on programming aspect of game development. It's been loads of fun and programming has proven to be a rewarding endeavor that, so far, never offers a dull moment. I even think I have a bit of a knack for programming.
I, however, am interested in level design. I'm fascinated by designing and developing game worlds; I love architecture too, which I feel further fuels my interest in level design. I've looked around and found that most level designer positions require:
1) Experience with Maya, 3DS Max, asset creation, etc.
2) Being design positions, all job postings I've seen require previous experience in the industry
3) Scripting/programming experience is often a plus
Example: Contract Level Designer
So far, it seems like a tough-ish position to get. Furthermore, it doesn't look like landing a job designing levels is easy if at all possible with a background in programming. Currently, I have the opportunity to switch to Full Sail's Game Art program which focuses on all the artistic aspects of game development. Switching would grant me that background in art/3D Modeling that I think I need but it's a tough choice and quite possibly an expensive one.
Now that I've bored you quite enough with details, what I am looking for is some good advice. Would switching to the Game Art program (and getting that background in 3D modeling, animation, etc.) land me the position I want in the industry? Is there a way to get into design with a background in programming?
Any advice is greatly appreciated. :)
Level designer is a tricky position because you're directly interfacing with pretty much every specialty in the biz. Your best bet will be to have, well, designed levels. Love for architecture is a big plus if you can prove you know what you're talking about. It's hard to design a level that works well with real life architecture and many games need that.
Game Art will probably get you closer to tools which you actually build levels with but you'll still need a game to run those levels in. Modding is a good way to go for this; I've seen lots of people transition from working on Unreal powered mods to jobs in the industry. I'm sure there are plenty of UDK and Unity projects looking for people to make levels right now.
Every job posting lists years of professional experience. It's BS, plain and simple. Just build an awesome portfolio.
Game Art will probably get you closer to tools which you actually build levels with but you'll still need a game to run those levels in. Modding is a good way to go for this; I've seen lots of people transition from working on Unreal powered mods to jobs in the industry. I'm sure there are plenty of UDK and Unity projects looking for people to make levels right now.
Every job posting lists years of professional experience. It's BS, plain and simple. Just build an awesome portfolio.
Moved to Breaking In.
No it won't. But it is a step in the right direction. As LockePick stated it will give more access to the tools that level designers use and many level designers do also do some elements of the art/modeling associated with their levels - so exposure to that will be a plus.
However to get an entry level, level design roll you will need to show off levels that you have designed. That means getting to grips with level editing tools and building levels. Joining a mod project is a good way to go about this or just create levels for one of the more recent games that includes level editing tools. It doesn't matter which one you pick (provided it is relatively recent) as your aim is to show that you can learn to use the necessary tools and create fun levels.
As for all those jobs that require experience - they aren't entry level. Employers don't need to advertise entry level positions as the get so many applicants on spec. They need to advertise to fill rolls that require experience as experienced staff are harder to find. when it comes time to get a job you will need to contact studios directly to inquire about entry level positions and then send your resume/cover letter.
Quote:Original post by vonzom
Would switching to the Game Art program (and getting that background in 3D modeling, animation, etc.) land me the position I want in the industry?
No it won't. But it is a step in the right direction. As LockePick stated it will give more access to the tools that level designers use and many level designers do also do some elements of the art/modeling associated with their levels - so exposure to that will be a plus.
However to get an entry level, level design roll you will need to show off levels that you have designed. That means getting to grips with level editing tools and building levels. Joining a mod project is a good way to go about this or just create levels for one of the more recent games that includes level editing tools. It doesn't matter which one you pick (provided it is relatively recent) as your aim is to show that you can learn to use the necessary tools and create fun levels.
As for all those jobs that require experience - they aren't entry level. Employers don't need to advertise entry level positions as the get so many applicants on spec. They need to advertise to fill rolls that require experience as experienced staff are harder to find. when it comes time to get a job you will need to contact studios directly to inquire about entry level positions and then send your resume/cover letter.
I know of a former tech prog who has turned level design lead. I'd say get a way in (prog) and learn everything you need to for the eventual switch. Your experience in the business as a programmer will be relevant when trying to go into level design. But you have to be opportunistic when that chance rises.
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