B-DES in Game Design at Manipal University Jaipur
Jaipur, Rajasthan
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About the Specialization
What is Game Design at Manipal University Jaipur Jaipur?
This Game Design program at Manipal University Jaipur focuses on cultivating creative and technical expertise required for the dynamic gaming industry. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, students delve into concept art, programming, level design, and interactive storytelling, preparing them for India''''s rapidly growing game development ecosystem. The curriculum blends artistic vision with technical execution, preparing graduates for diverse roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative individuals passionate about video games, seeking entry into the burgeoning Indian gaming sector. It suits fresh 10+2 graduates with a keen interest in art, programming, or storytelling, aspiring to become game designers, developers, or artists. It also appeals to career changers or professionals looking to transition their skills into the exciting field of interactive entertainment.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as game designers, game artists, level designers, game programmers, or quality assurance testers within India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aims to align with industry demands, preparing students for roles in major Indian studios like Nazara Technologies, Rolocule Games, or global companies with Indian operations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Portfolio of Foundational Art Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively practice design sketching, 2D art, and digital painting beyond coursework. Create a diverse collection of character concepts, environment art, and UI elements. Focus on mastering fundamental principles of art and design which are crucial for game art.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Photoshop, Krita, ArtStation, Behance, online tutorials (e.g., Ctrl+Paint)
Career Connection
A strong art portfolio is essential for securing entry-level game artist or concept artist roles in the competitive Indian gaming industry.
Master Basic Game Logic and Prototyping- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to understand fundamental programming concepts relevant to games (loops, conditionals, data structures) and experiment with simple game engines. Create small, functional prototypes of game mechanics learned in theory using tools like Scratch or GameMaker Studio to solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
Unity/Unreal Engine (basic tutorials), GameMaker Studio 2, Scratch, Codecademy, free online game development courses
Career Connection
This establishes a strong technical base, crucial for roles in game programming, level design, and technical art.
Participate in Game Jams and Design Challenges- (Semester 2)
Engage in university-level or online game jams to practice rapid prototyping, teamwork, and creative problem-solving under pressure. Focus on completing a small, playable game within the given timeframe, learning to scope projects realistically.
Tools & Resources
Global Game Jam, Itch.io game jams, university hackathons
Career Connection
Builds practical experience, demonstrates initiative, and helps in networking with peers, crucial for early career opportunities in indie or smaller studios.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize and Build High-Quality Assets in a Chosen Art or Tech Discipline- (Semester 3-5)
Based on interests, choose to specialize in 3D modeling, texturing, animation, or advanced game programming. Focus on creating portfolio-quality assets (e.g., a fully rigged character, a detailed environment scene, a complex AI system) that showcase your chosen expertise.
Tools & Resources
Maya, Blender, ZBrush, Substance Painter, Unity/Unreal Engine, GitHub for code repositories
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more attractive candidate for specific roles like 3D Artist, Technical Artist, or AI Programmer in Indian game development companies.
Develop a Comprehensive Game Design Document (GDD) and Prototype- (Semester 4-5)
Independently or with a small team, conceive an original game idea and develop a detailed Game Design Document (GDD). Follow through by creating a polished digital prototype demonstrating core mechanics, UI/UX, and basic art assets.
Tools & Resources
Google Docs, Miro, Unity/Unreal Engine, Figma/Adobe XD for UI/UX wireframes
Career Connection
Demonstrates design acumen, project planning, and ability to execute, highly valued for Game Designer and Lead Designer roles.
Seek Mentorship and Network within the Indian Gaming Community- (Semester 3-5)
Actively connect with professionals in the Indian gaming industry through LinkedIn, online forums, and local meetups/conferences (e.g., NASSCOM Game Developer Conference). Seek feedback on your portfolio and insights into industry trends and career paths.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, NASSCOM Game Developer Conference, local game developer meetups, online communities
Career Connection
Opens doors for internships, collaborations, and future job opportunities through direct industry connections.
Advanced Stage
Lead a Full-Scale Game Development Project- (Semester 6-7)
Take on a leadership role in a major project, ideally a complete game from concept to a near-release state. Focus on managing a team, adhering to production pipelines, quality assurance, and iteration based on player feedback. Aim for a publishable quality product.
Tools & Resources
Jira/Trello, Perforce/Git, Unity/Unreal Engine, professional testing tools
Career Connection
Essential for demonstrating leadership, project management, and product delivery skills, crucial for senior or lead positions in game development studios.
Secure and Excel in an Industry Internship- (Semester 8)
Actively pursue and complete a substantial internship at a reputable game development studio in India. Focus on learning professional workflows, contributing meaningfully to a commercial project, and building a strong professional network within the company.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, company career pages (e.g., Rockstar India, Games2win)
Career Connection
Internships are often direct pathways to full-time employment and provide invaluable real-world experience, significantly boosting placement prospects.
Refine and Showcase a Professional Portfolio with a Specialization- (Semester 7-8)
Curate a highly polished, specialized portfolio tailored to your desired career path (e.g., Character Artist, Gameplay Programmer). Include your best work, detailing your contributions to team projects and showcasing your unique skills. Practice presenting your work confidently for interviews.
Tools & Resources
ArtStation, personal website, GitHub, professional resume builders, mock interviews
Career Connection
A standout, specialized portfolio is paramount for attracting top recruiters and securing competitive roles in the Indian and global gaming industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 with minimum 50% aggregate marks (PCM/PCB/Commerce/Arts/Vocational Stream with English as compulsory subject) or A Level or IB. A pass in Manipal Entrance Test (MET) and Portfolio Review + Interview.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 174 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DES 1101 | Design Sketching 1 | Core | 3 | Basic Drawing, Form Representation, Perspective, Shading Techniques, Object Drawing |
| DES 1102 | Material and Process | Core | 3 | Material Properties, Manufacturing Processes, Material Selection, Sustainable Materials, Prototyping |
| DES 1103 | Elements of Design | Core | 3 | Line, Shape, Form, Texture, Color Theory, Principles of Design, Visual Hierarchy |
| DES 1104 | History of Art and Design | Core | 3 | Ancient Art, Renaissance, Modern Art Movements, Design History, Cultural Influences |
| GAM 1101 | Introduction to Game Design | Core | 3 | History of Games, Game Genres, Game Mechanics, Player Psychology, Game Development Cycle |
| GAM 1102 | 2D Art for Games | Core | 3 | Digital Painting, Character Design, Environment Design, Concept Art, UI/UX for 2D |
| HSS 1101 | English Communication | Mandatory Non-Credit/Foundation | 2 | Spoken English, Written Communication, Presentation Skills, Group Discussion, Technical Writing |
| VBC 1101 | Value Based Learning 1 | Value Based Course | 1 | Ethics, Professional Values, Social Responsibility, Personal Growth, Community Engagement |
| VBC 1102 | Constitution of India | Value Based Course | 1 | Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Government Structure, Constitutional Amendments |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DES 1201 | Design Sketching 2 | Core | 3 | Advanced Perspective, Human Anatomy, Dynamic Poses, Character Drawing, Environmental Sketching |
| DES 1202 | Ergonomics | Core | 3 | Human Factors, Anthropometry, User Comfort, Workspace Design, Accessibility |
| DES 1203 | Principles of Design | Core | 3 | Balance, Contrast, Unity, Rhythm, Emphasis, Proportion, Design Composition, Visual Harmony, Aesthetics |
| DES 1204 | Introduction to Photography | Core | 3 | Camera Basics, Composition, Lighting, Digital Editing, Photo Storytelling |
| GAM 1201 | Game Level Design | Core | 3 | Level Prototyping, Pacing and Flow, Difficulty Curves, Player Navigation, Environmental Storytelling |
| GAM 1202 | Game Narrative Design | Core | 3 | Storytelling Principles, Character Development, World Building, Dialogue Writing, Plot Structures |
| GAM 1203 | Programming for Games | Core | 3 | Basic Programming Constructs, Data Structures, Game Logic Implementation, Scripting Languages (e.g., C# basics), Debugging Techniques |
| VBC 1201 | Value Based Learning 2 | Value Based Course | 1 | Critical Thinking, Emotional Intelligence, Stress Management, Interpersonal Skills, Ethical Decision Making |
| VBC 1202 | Environmental Science | Value Based Course | 2 | Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Pollution, Climate Change, Conservation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DES 2301 | Digital Painting | Core | 3 | Digital Art Tools (e.g., Photoshop), Color Palettes and Theory, Texture Creation, Lighting Effects, Concept Art Techniques |
| DES 2302 | Typographic Design | Core | 3 | Font Families and Styles, Type Anatomy, Kerning and Leading, Readability and Legibility, Visual Hierarchy with Type |
| DES 2303 | Illustration | Core | 3 | Drawing Styles and Techniques, Storyboarding, Character Design, Vector Graphics, Digital Illustration Tools |
| GAM 2301 | Game Art 1 | Core | 3 | Low Poly Modeling, UV Mapping, Basic Texturing, Prop Creation, Asset Optimization |
| GAM 2302 | Game Mechanics | Core | 3 | Core Gameplay Loops, Player Actions, Game Rules and Systems, Balancing Mechanics, Interaction Design |
| GAM 2303 | Prototyping for Games | Core | 3 | Rapid Prototyping, Paper Prototypes, Digital Prototyping, User Testing Fundamentals, Iterative Design |
| GAM 2304 | Introduction to Game Engines | Core | 3 | Engine Interface (e.g., Unity, Unreal), Scene Setup, Scripting Basics, Asset Management, Build Process |
| VBC 2301 | Value Based Learning 3 | Value Based Course | 1 | Empathy, Inclusivity, Diversity, Teamwork, Leadership, Conflict Resolution |
| OEC 23XX | Open Elective 1 | Open Elective | 2 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DES 2401 | Publication Design | Core | 3 | Layout Design, Grid Systems, Editorial Design, Digital Publications, Print Production |
| DES 2402 | Information Design | Core | 3 | Data Visualization, Infographics, UI/UX Principles, Usability Testing, Information Architecture |
| GAM 2401 | Game Art 2 | Core | 3 | High Poly Modeling, PBR Texturing, Environment Modeling, Character Rigging, Animation Principles |
| GAM 2402 | Game Production | Core | 3 | Project Management, Team Roles, Agile Development, Quality Assurance, Marketing Basics |
| GAM 2403 | Game Design Document | Core | 3 | GDD Structure, Concept Art Integration, Technical Specifications, Monetization Strategy, Pitching |
| GAM 2404 | Serious Games | Core | 3 | Gamification, Educational Games, Health Games, Simulation Design, Impact Measurement |
| GAM 2405 | AR/VR for Games | Core | 3 | Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality, Interaction Design, Development Platforms |
| VBC 2401 | Value Based Learning 4 | Value Based Course | 1 | Innovation, Adaptability, Global Citizenship, Ethical Technology Use, Future Foresight |
| OEC 24XX | Open Elective 2 | Open Elective | 2 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GAM 3501 | Character Design for Games | Core | 3 | Concept Art, Anatomy for Artists, Expressive Poses, Costume Design, Style Guides |
| GAM 3502 | Environment Design for Games | Core | 3 | Architectural Design, Level Art, Asset Creation, Lighting Principles, World-Building |
| GAM 3503 | Game Programming 1 | Core | 3 | Object-Oriented Programming, Game Physics, AI for Games (basic), Data Structures in Games, Performance Optimization |
| GAM 3504 | Game UI/UX | Core | 3 | User Interface Design, User Experience Principles, Wireframing, Prototyping, Usability Testing |
| GAM 3505 | Major Project 1 | Project | 6 | Project Planning, Game Development Cycle, Team Collaboration, Design Iteration, Playtesting |
| VBC 3501 | Value Based Learning 5 | Value Based Course | 1 | Entrepreneurship, Financial Literacy, Brand Building, Networking, Intellectual Property |
| OEC 35XX | Open Elective 3 | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GAM 3601 | Game Animation | Core | 3 | Principles of Animation, Rigging, Skinning, Motion Capture, Keyframe Animation |
| GAM 3602 | Game Audio Design | Core | 3 | Sound Effects, Background Music, Voice Acting, Audio Implementation, Psychoacoustics |
| GAM 3603 | Game Programming 2 | Core | 3 | Network Programming, Multiplayer Games, Advanced AI, Shaders, Optimization Techniques |
| GAM 3604 | Game Monetization | Core | 3 | Business Models, In-App Purchases, Free-to-Play, Premium Games, Market Analysis |
| GAM 3605 | Major Project 2 | Project | 6 | Advanced Project Management, Production Pipelines, Market Research, Beta Testing, Launch Strategy |
| VBC 3601 | Value Based Learning 6 | Value Based Course | 1 | Mentorship, Self-Reflection, Conflict Resolution, Public Speaking, Leadership in Crisis |
| OEC 36XX | Open Elective 4 | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GAM 4701 | Portfolio Development | Core | 3 | Resume Building, Portfolio Curation, Personal Branding, Interview Preparation, Presentation Skills |
| GAM 4702 | Game Industry Trends | Core | 3 | Emerging Technologies, Market Dynamics, Indie Games, AAA Studios, Future of Gaming |
| GAM 4703 | Major Project 3 | Project | 12 | Full Game Production, Commercialization Strategy, Team Leadership, Marketing and Promotion, Post-Launch Support |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GAM 4801 | Internship | Internship | 18 | Industry Experience, Professional Workflow, Real-world Projects, Mentorship and Guidance, Networking Opportunities |