HOW TO USE THIS “COURSE”

• Feel free to check the content in advance but don’t rush it.
• Remember! It’s not about how much content you go through but how much you can put into practice.
  • For context, I went through all these materials in about 3 years, during which I created 20+ levels across 3 different projects.
• Take notes—it helps you rephrase concepts in your own words and think critically about them.
• Review your notes regularly, just like studying for a test.
• Teach others what you’ve learned. Explain to friends or colleagues what you’re up to. Recollecting is more powerful than re-learning.
• After each part, practice what you learned to make it stick. No need for moderation. You can make for example 4 levels before you move to another section.

What does “Level Design” even mean?

TL;DR: Level designer creates spaces with the intention to support a specific gameplay dynamic, playstyle, feelings, or experience!

Level design is not about making cool-looking spaces. It’s about making awesome gameplay… in cool spaces. :D

A good analogy for non-gamers is the role of an architect. The key difference is that architects design spaces for long-term use, aiming for the well-being of future occupants.

In contrast, level designers craft spaces that evoke different emotions: fear, struggle, empowerment, mystery, etc. We’re not constrained by real-world physics or building codes, and our visitors usually spend only a few minutes in each section.

WHAT DO LEVEL DESIGNERS ACTUALLY DO?

In essence, level designers create levels. This involves:

• Generating and developing level concepts.
• Planning level layouts and exploring variations.
• Creating and iterating on blockouts until the vision is clear.
• Replacing placeholders with finished assets and adding lighting and sound.