Istinye University Digital Game Design: Shaping the Future Experience
Digital games have become one of the leading artistic, cultural, and economic forms of expression in the 21st century. Surpassing even the Hollywood film industry to become one of the highest-grossing sectors, the digital game industry has amplified its significance with the lightning-fast digital transformation experienced in the post-Coronavirus era.
The Istinye University Digital Game Design Department was established by analyzing successful curricula in America and Europe to meet the dynamic needs of the global game industry.
The Synergy of Engineering and Art
The program distinguishes itself from similar departments by adopting a hybrid approach, enabling students to become both a strong software developer and a visionary designer.
- Software and Programming: In-depth education on modern programming languages like Algorithms, C, C++, C#, software development, Machine Learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI), mobile programming, simulation, and virtual reality.
- Game Engines: Practical development courses in industry-leading game engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine.
- Design and Art: Creative courses focused on 2D and 3D modeling for games, character and environmental art design, animation, game graphics, level design, and user experience (UX/UI).
The education focuses on students creating a professional portfolio/demo to showcase their creative works and technical abilities, offering the opportunity to develop commercial-quality games in a simulated video game studio environment.
Strong Academic Staff and Industry Connections
Our rich academic staff, who completed their master's and doctoral studies all over the world, are united with game design artists experienced in the industry. Esteemed faculty members like Dr. İsmail Ergen, who make significant contributions to the academic sector, convey not only theoretical knowledge but also current research and practical experience to students.
The program conducts joint courses and projects with leading game companies, keeping students in constant contact with industry professionals.
Digital Game Development and Animation Technologies Research Center
The Digital Game Development and Animation Technologies Research and Application Center, recently established within the university, offers a state-of-the-art infrastructure spanning 400 m². This center functions not only as a laboratory but also as an innovation incubator:
- Technological Facilities: Special project offices with digital tablets and computers, a 25-person computer lab, workstation project desks for 200 people, a Virtual Reality (VR) room, and a digital game library.
- Industry Interaction: The center aims to contribute to the local and global game market by providing a platform for academics and students to develop projects together, as well as facilitating the establishment of digital game start-ups and companies.
Current Game Industry Career Opportunities
After four years of education, thanks to the software and design training they receive, students gain the flexibility to pursue careers not only in the game industry but also in the general software and IT sectors. Due to the programming languages and algorithm training learned, graduates can easily find employment in traditional software developer roles (Mobile Developer, Programmer).
The most common and current positions you can find in the sector and that graduates can target include:
- Software and Engineering-Focused Positions:
- Game Developer
- Engine Programmer
- Design and Art-Focused Positions:
- Game Designer
- Level Designer
- Narrative Designer / Game Writer
- Game Artist (Concept Artist, 3D Artist, Technical Artist)
The Digital Game Design program removes the limits, allowing students to orient themselves toward any field they desire.