“Level Design Philosophy” is an introductory class that explores Level Design trains of thought. Whether you’re interested in video games, tabletop games, mobile apps, or other interactive experiences, this class breaks down what makes them engaging, meaningful, and fun. No prior design or development experience is required. The course examines how Level Design can be used to teach players new skills and how we can guide players without additional instructions. Students learn how rules shape behaviour, how systems interact over time, and how choices create emergent outcomes. Through analysis of actual examples, we explore why some designs feel compelling while others fall flat.
A major focus of the class is user-centred design. Students will learn to think from the user’s perspective, considering motivation, challenge, feedback, accessibility, and emotional impact. The class also includes a few practice tasks for everyone to join in on or spectate as examples. By the end of the class, students will understand the fundamental principles of Level Design, be able to analyse objects and features with a critical designer’s eye, and confidently communicate their own game ideas. This class is ideal for aspiring designers and anyone else interested in how interactions work under the hood.
