Foundations of Video Game Design: From Concept to Narrative

This point in the year is perfect for 40% off 10,000+ programs. Save now.

Foundations of Video Game Design: From Concept to Narrative

This course is part of Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design Specialization

Instructor: Wiley Skills Network

Included with

Learn more

4 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

Recommended experience

4 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

4 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

Recommended experience

4 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

Learn the fundamental principles of video game design, including ideation and documentation.
Understand how to create narrative-driven game concepts and characters.
Develop essential game design documents for organizing and refining ideas.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

Learn more about Coursera for Business

logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design Specialization

When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.

Learn new concepts from industry experts
Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 4 modules in this course

This course introduces the fundamental aspects of video game design, focusing on concept ideation, narrative development, and the creation of structured game designs. It covers the evolution of gaming, highlighting industry roles and the creative process involved in shaping game ideas into well-defined concepts. Through structured game design documentation and narrative design, learners will gain the tools to transform their creative ideas into viable game designs.

The course emphasizes a mix of conceptual frameworks, real-world examples, and practical guidance to help learners understand the mechanics of video game design. By applying these principles, learners will explore ways to develop engaging narratives, create memorable characters, and ensure their concepts are suitable for production. What sets this course apart is its emphasis on balancing theoretical foundations with real-world application. It equips learners with the skills to document, refine, and improve game concepts, creating a strong foundation for aspiring game designers. This course is suitable for anyone interested in game design, especially those looking to enter the industry. Whether you're just starting out or seeking to formalize your knowledge, this course offers a structured approach to video game design. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to provide a comprehensive learning pathway in this subject area. While it delivers standalone value and practical skills, learners seeking a more integrated and in-depth progression may benefit from completing the full Specialization. From Level Up! The Guide to Great Video Game Design Copyright © 2025 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights, including for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies, are reserved. Illustrations in this course are copyright © 2025 Scott Rogers. Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This module introduces the foundational concepts of video games, including their history, key components, and the various roles involved in game development. Learners will explore how games have evolved over time, the distinctions between AAA and indie games, and the responsibilities of different team members such as designers, composers, and community managers. By the end, you'll have a broad understanding of the game development landscape and the people who shape it.

What's included

1 video8 readings1 assignment

1 videoTotal 1 minute

Overview1 minute

8 readingsTotal 49 minutes

Introduction5 minutes
A (Somewhat) Brief History of Video Games8 minutes
The Brave New World of Gaming: Mobiles, Online Distribution and Touchscreens5 minutes
What's the Difference Between AAA and Indy?7 minutes
Who Makes This Stuff?6 minutes
Designer5 minutes
Composer6 minutes
Community Manager7 minutes

1 assignmentTotal 16 minutes

Foundations of Game Development16 minutes

This module guides learners through the process of generating and refining video game ideas, exploring creative techniques, overcoming mental blocks, and considering player preferences. Learners will also examine the iterative nature of innovation in game design and analyze what makes games engaging beyond the concept of 'fun.'

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

This module explores how narrative and gameplay intertwine in game design, examining techniques for crafting engaging stories, developing memorable characters, and appealing to diverse player audiences. Learners will analyze the impact of story structure, game endings, and titles, as well as considerations for inclusivity and licensed properties. By the end, you'll understand how to create compelling narratives that enhance player experience.

What's included

1 video9 readings1 assignment

1 videoTotal 1 minute

Overview1 minute

9 readingsTotal 49 minutes

Introduction3 minutes
Narrative Design5 minutes
Anything is Gameplay4 minutes
A Likely Story6 minutes
Time to Wrap It Up7 minutes
A Game by Any Other Name6 minutes
Creating Characters Your Players Care About9 minutes
Games Are About Everyone5 minutes
Writing for Licenses4 minutes

1 assignmentTotal 16 minutes

Crafting Engaging Narratives in Games16 minutes

This module guides learners through the essential steps of creating effective game design documentation, from concise one-sheets to comprehensive game design documents. You will explore best practices for structuring and refining your ideas, adapting documentation for different game genres, and fostering responsible design habits. By the end, you'll be equipped to communicate your game concepts clearly and professionally.

What's included

1 video11 readings1 assignment

1 videoTotal 1 minute

Overview1 minute

11 readingsTotal 65 minutes

Introduction5 minutes
The Game Design Document6 minutes
Writing the GDD, Step 1: The One-Sheet5 minutes
Writing the GDD, Step 2: The Ten-Pager4 minutes
The Ten-Pager Outline13 minutes
Writing the GDD, Step 3: The Beat Chart5 minutes
Writing the GDD, Step 4: The Game Design Document8 minutes
Writing the GDD, Step 5: Be Responsible6 minutes
Writing the GDD, Step 6 – Other Game Genres6 minutes
Battle Royale4 minutes
Sports Games3 minutes

1 assignmentTotal 16 minutes

Game Design Communication and Documentation Essentials16 minutes

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructor

Wiley Skills Network

John Wiley & Sons

130 Courses8,176 learners

Offered by

John Wiley & Sons

Explore more from Software Development

John Wiley & Sons
Gameplay Mechanics and Interactive Systems in Game Design
Course
John Wiley & Sons
Advanced Game Design: Platforms & Monetization
Course

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.

Learner since 2018

"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."

Jennifer J.

Learner since 2020

"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."

Larry W.

Learner since 2021

"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."

Chaitanya A.

"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Frequently asked questions

To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.

When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.

Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.