Character Design for Video Games

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/game-character-design

Introduction

### Course Review: Character Design for Video Games on Coursera If you’re an aspiring artist or a fan of video game design, "Character Design for Video Games" on Coursera may be just what you are looking for. This engaging course takes you on an immersive journey through the essentials of character design, featuring insights from industry veterans who have brought beloved characters to life. #### Course Overview "Character Design for Video Games" offers a well-structured curriculum spanning four weeks. The course kicks off with foundational concepts of character creation, providing students with a strong theoretical base. The following weeks transition into practical applications, allowing participants to observe and learn from three distinguished professionals in the field: Andy Ristaino, Jacky Ke Jiang, and Robertryan Cory. This blend of theory and practical insights makes the course both informative and inspiring. #### Week by Week Breakdown **Week 1: About Character** The first week dives deep into what makes a character compelling and purposeful. By exploring major concepts such as character traits, motivations, and visual storytelling, learners are prepared for the practical aspects that will follow. Assignments during this week encourage participants to apply their understanding creatively, laying a solid groundwork for the upcoming collaborations with professional designers. **Week 2: Technical Challenges with Andy Ristaino** In the second week, Andy Ristaino, known for his innovative character designs in "Adventure Time," leads students through technical challenges intrinsic to character creation. His insights into the nuances of crafting unique characters in animated storytelling are invaluable. Ristaino’s experience allows students to benefit from his vast knowledge about character functionality within narratives, making this week a pivotal part of the course. **Week 3: Design with Purpose with Jacky Ke Jiang** The focus shifts in week three as participants learn from Jacky Ke Jiang, whose credits include work at Disney Feature Animation and video game design. Jiang discusses the differences and challenges of working with both 2D and 3D mediums, providing students with crucial insights into adapting their designs according to the platform. This session is integral for those looking to create characters that resonate across different formats, enhancing their creative versatility. **Week 4: Find Your Character with Robertryan Cory** The final week wraps up the course by featuring Robertryan Cory, celebrated for his work on iconic shows like "SpongeBob SquarePants." Cory’s masterclass focuses on encouraging students to find their unique style and voice in character design. His approach to design encapsulates both fun and depth, motivating participants to think about how their characters can connect with audiences. #### Conclusion and Recommendation Overall, "Character Design for Video Games" is a comprehensive course that effectively marries theoretical knowledge with practical expertise from industry leaders. The weekly masterclasses provide a rare opportunity to gain insight from successful character designers whose work has shaped popular culture. Whether you’re a novice eager to enter the world of character design or an experienced artist looking to refine your skills, this course offers valuable lessons and inspiration. I recommend enrolling in this course for anyone interested in enhancing their understanding of character design within the video game industry. You’ll walk away not only with enhanced skills but also a deeper appreciation for the art of character creation. Investing time in this course could very well set the foundation for your journey into the vibrant world of video game design. Happy designing!

Syllabus

Week 1: About Character

In this first week of the course, we will explore some of the major concepts involved in creating compelling, unique, and purposeful characters. These ideas will provide the basis for your assignment this week and lay the groundwork for our visits with professional designers in the coming weeks.

This week, we visit Andy Ristaino, a character designer who has created many of the ingenious characters for the animated series Adventure Time.

This week, we visit Jacky Ke Jiang, an animator who has worked as a character designer for both Disney Feature Animation and in video games. Jacky will discuss working in both 2D and 3D modes as he completes his challenges.

This week, we see Robertryan Cory in action. Cory is an a character designer known for his work on shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, Ren & Stimpy, and Gravity Falls.