Are you interested in working in the gaming industry, but are unsure whether to choose a career as a graphic designer or a game designer? While there are some similarities, they are two very different things.
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between graphic design and game design to help you choose which one is right for you!
What is graphic design?
Graphic design is the art of creating visuals to convey a message. It combines typography, imagery, colour, and layout to produce designs. Graphics are usually the first thing people notice when interacting with a brand/product, which is why they are so important as they need to make an impact and accurately convey the message.
Graphic design is an essential part of marketing and branding as it blends creativity with technical skills to produce visually appealing and effective communication.
What is game design?
Game design is the combination of creativity and design to develop a game for entertainment, it involves creating compelling stories, characters, goals, rules, and challenges.
Game designers are involved in every step of the design process, from conceptualising the storyline and characters to determining the game mechanics and balancing the gameplay. Game design is central to all different types of games, to entertain, educate, and challenge players through interactive experiences.
What are the similarities?
Both share the same goal – how to make something appealing to audiences by creating impressive and alluring visuals. A game designer’s main priority is how the game is visually presented and interacted with, while a graphic designer will be more concerned with how a product/company is going to appeal to the end customer.
What are the differences?
A game designer is present during every step of the process in creating a game. They’ll be interested in how the game feels and looks, as well as what you can do in that game’s world. A game designer usually enjoys playing games and understands how to think from the perspective of a gamer, not only from a designer’s perspective.
On the other hand, graphic designers focus on actual designing rather than coding and tend to only be involved whenever assets need to be built, to be placed into the game. Graphic designers are not limited to the gaming industry as they are needed in almost every field.
An example of the difference can be seen in the game Super Mario. A graphic designer was responsible for creating the brand elements of the game (e.g. Mario, the environment, the other characters etc). The game designer was responsible for the game mechanics and rules, such as how Mario jumps, collects powerups, the time each powerup will be active etc.
Is graphic design used in the video game industry?
Graphic design plays a huge part in the game industry, especially in video games. Amazing graphic design can make a game look and feel immersive and realistic, thus making it more enjoyable to play. One of the ways that having good graphic design is essential to games is that it builds trust for players. Visuals are often the first thing players notice and good ones will create a positive first impression, and keep players coming back for more. For example, this is found in the user interface design (UID), aka the menus, buttons, icons, and HUD elements. Similarly, in the in-game graphics, such as textures, patterns, and environmental/character visual effects.
Graphic design also plays a huge part in the game’s marketing and branding strategies. For example, in promotional materials such as game logos, box art, posters, and advertisements. By creating compelling branding, graphic designers will capture the attention of gamers. A memorable game trailer can generate buzz and drive sales, making it an essential part of any game’s marketing strategy.
Last but not least, having good graphics makes the game more enjoyable to play. It enhances the game’s navigation, meaning players can spend more time having fun rather than trying to figure out how to play.
Where can I study graphic design or game design?
If you fancy enrolling onto a graphic design course, Access Creative College has got you covered! We run a Level 3 Graphic and Digital Design course where you will master the art of typography, hand rendered and digital illustration, web design, layouts, designing for adverts/promotional materials, and so much more.
Or if you fancy a game design course instead, we’ve also got you covered! Check out our Level 3 Games Development course, where you will develop all of the skills needed to design and make games.
Applications are still open for 2024!
What career options are there in graphic design?
There’s no doubt that graphic design is an exciting pathway to go down as it combines technology, communication and art. There is a plethora of exciting career options to choose from, some include:
- Graphic Designer
- Web Designer
- Art Director
- UI/UX Designer
- Brand Identity Designer
- Illustrator
- Motion Graphics Designer
- Packaging Designer
- Environmental Designer
- Freelance Designer
What career options are there in game design?
Game design blends artistry and games, and a career in this industry is the perfect way for someone who loves gaming to earn a living from their passion. The gaming field is rapidly growing and opening up lots of new opportunities, some possible career options include:
- Game Designer
- Level Designer
- Narrative Designer
- Game Developer/Programmer
- UI/UX Designer
- Game Artist
- Animator
- Sound Designer
- Quality Assurance (QA) Tester
- Producer
Choosing graphic design or game design comes down to what you want to do. If you’re a passionate gamer who loves the intricate details of levels, characters, and themes, then game design will be the best choice. However, if you have a passion for design in general and have a broader interest in the marketing process, graphic design will be a better fit for you.
Whether you want to get into graphic design or game design, Access Creative College is the perfect place to start! Apply online today to start your journey.
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