Starting freshman year in Drexel’s Game Design & Production (GDAP) program is an exciting first step toward a career in the gaming industry. This year is all about building foundational skills in game development, design principles, and digital art while exploring different aspects of the gaming world. Whether you’re interested in game design, programming, 3D modeling, or narrative development, the first year lays the groundwork for future specializations.
Freshman-year courses introduce students to the fundamentals of game development, focusing on design, interactivity, and digital creation tools. The first year builds a strong foundation in game design and development. Sophomore year will introduce more advanced programming, 3D modeling, and interactive storytelling, helping students find their specialization in the gaming industry.
Core Classes
Freshman-year courses introduce students to the fundamentals of game development, focusing on design, interactivity, and digital creation tools. Key classes include:
- Game Design Lab (GMAP101, GMAP102): Covers image creation and editing tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, blending digital and physical fabrication. Introduces interactive text, 2D/3D engines, grey-boxing, and rapid prototyping.
- Basic Portfolio (GMAP123): Teaches portfolio creation and presentation while reviewing examples from professionals across game development roles.
- Overview of Game Playtesting (GMAP121): Introduces UX, usability testing, QA, and hands-on testing techniques used in real projects.
Skills You’ll Learn
- Game Mechanics & Player Interaction: Designing engaging and balanced gameplay
- 2D & 3D Asset Creation: Learning digital art and basic modeling techniques
- Basic Game Programming: Understanding logic and scripting in game engines
- Prototyping & Iteration: Creating and refining simple games based on feedback
Projects & Challenges
Expect hands-on projects that apply fundamental skills to small-scale game prototypes. Common assignments include:
- 2D Platformer Prototype: Design and code a simple side-scrolling game
- Concept Art & Game UI Mockups: Create visual assets and design user interfaces
- Game Design Document (GDD): Write a structured plan outlining game mechanics, story, and style
- Paper Prototyping: Test gameplay ideas with physical tools before going digital
A major challenge in freshman year is learning to work across disciplines. Game development involves art, programming, storytelling, and player psychology—and balancing these elements can be complex.
Tips for Success:
- Start learning game engines early—Unity and Unreal are industry standards.
- Develop your art or coding skills. Versatility is valuable in team settings.
- Play games critically. Analyze what makes them fun, balanced, and memorable.
- Collaborate with your peers. Teamwork is essential—start now.