VFS Game Design Fundamentals (Online) MARCH 11 - APRIL 22, 2026

Jump into the world of game design with this exciting introductory course. Game Design Fundamentals will take you from game design theory and industry “war-stories” to hands-on lessons with simple game design tools, and finish off by outlining and pitching your very own game! Additionally, students with access to a Nintendo Switch will be able to try out their new skillset in Super Mario Maker 2, as a class assignment (*see learning outcomes below).

Course Details:

Dates: March 11 to April 22, 2026

Duration: 7-week course, one online class per week

Time: Wednesdays, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. PST

Cost: $950

Learning Outcomes – Participants Will:

• Learn about the different types of game designers in the industry and what they do day-to-day.
• Explore the fundamentals of game design theory and some advanced concepts.
• Design a game level on paper and implement it in the 3D software tool Sketch Up.
• Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing spreadsheets to design systems and balance a game.
• Design characters, content, and narrative for an existing game of your choice.
• Create a Super Mario Maker 2 level with level design best practices (alternative Assignment Available for those without a Nintendo Switch).
• Collaborate on a game pitch with other students and present it to the class.

Requirements:

• Computer with a microphone & camera
• Sketchup (free)
• Google Sheets (free)
• Google Docs (free)
• Google Presentation (free)
• Nintendo Switch console with Super Mario Maker 2 (recommended) – those who do not have a Nintendo Switch will be able to complete an alternative assignment using Sketchup

Prerequisites:

Students are not required to have any previous training or experience.