The world of video games has grown tremendously over the years, with players worldwide spending billions of hours lost in virtual realms. The gaming industry is now worth billions of dollars, and there’s no sign of slowing down anytime soon. It’s only natural, then, that gamers would want to take their passion for games into the classroom.
This has led to the creation of video game high schools around the world, where students can learn everything from coding and design to game theory and psychology.
In this article, we will explore the concept of video game high schools, including their history, structure, curriculum, and potential impact on the gaming industry. We’ll also take a look at some real-life examples of video game high schools and discuss what makes them successful.
History of Video Game High Schools
The idea of a video game high school has been around for decades. In the early days of video games, computer science students were often encouraged to pursue careers in gaming development.
As the industry grew, some schools began offering courses specifically focused on video game design and programming.
One of the earliest examples of a video game high school is the University of California at Santa Cruz’s Center for Computer Games and Interactive Media. Established in 1987, the center offered a bachelor’s degree in computer science with a specialization in video games and interactive media. The program was designed to give students hands-on experience in game development and prepare them for careers in the gaming industry.
Another early example is the Guild Academy of Game Design in Dublin, Ireland. Established in 2009, the academy offered a two-year diploma in video game design that focused on game mechanics, level design, and programming. The school also hosted regular workshops and seminars to help students stay up-to-date with the latest trends in gaming.
Over the years, more schools have joined the ranks of video game high schools. Today, there are dozens of institutions around the world that offer programs focused on game design, development, and theory.
Structure of Video Game High Schools
Video game high schools typically follow a traditional high school structure, with students attending classes from 9 to 3:30 or 4 to 6 p.m. depending on the school’s schedule. However, there are some key differences between video game high schools and traditional high schools.
For one, video game high schools often offer specialized programs in game design and development. These programs typically take up more of a student’s time than traditional subjects like math or English, with students spending several hours each day learning about game mechanics, programming, and level design.
Another key difference is the emphasis on hands-on experience. Many video game high schools offer labs or studios where students can work on their own game projects under the guidance of experienced teachers and industry professionals. These opportunities allow students to apply what they’ve learned in class to real-world projects, giving them valuable experience that will be useful later on in their careers.
Curriculum of Video Game High Schools
The curriculum of video game high schools varies depending on the institution, but there are some common subjects that most programs cover. These include:
- Game Mechanics: This subject covers the fundamental principles of game design and development, including game theory, AI, physics, and animation.
- Programming: Students learn programming languages like C++ and Python to create their own games and modify existing ones.
- Level Design: This subject covers creating engaging and immersive game environments, including level layout, lighting, and sound effects.
- Game Art: Students learn how to create art assets like characters, textures, and environments for their games.
- Business of Gaming: This subject covers the business side of the gaming industry, including marketing, distribution, and finance.
- Psychology of Gaming: This subject explores the psychological effects of video games on players, as well as the role that games can play in therapy and education.
Potential Impact of Video Game High Schools
There are a number of potential benefits to the creation of video game high schools. These include:
- Providing students with specialized training in game design and development, which can lead to successful careers in the gaming industry.
- Encouraging innovation and creativity by giving students the tools and knowledge they need to create their own games and contribute to the growth of the gaming industry.
- Fostering a sense of community among students who share a passion for video games, which can lead to lifelong friendships and professional connections.
- Increasing awareness and understanding of the potential benefits of video games in education, therapy, and other fields.
