Prof. Dr. Volkan Yücel
The digital game industry is an interdisciplinary field where art, technology, and interactive storytelling converge, continuing its rapid growth on a global scale. At Istanbul Kent University’s Department of Digital Game Design, our mission is not only to equip students with technical knowledge in game development but also to nurture creative individuals who can approach game design with aesthetic, psychological, and experiential dimensions.
Digital games are interactive media that center around user experience. The game design process integrates visual arts, game engines, artificial intelligence (AI), user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design, 3D modeling, sound design, game economics, and psychology. Our department ensures that students gain in-depth knowledge in these areas while developing technical skills necessary to adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the industry.
A Comprehensive Education in Game Development
Students at Istanbul Kent University learn the entire game development process, gaining hands-on experience with:
- Game Engines (Unity, Unreal Engine)
- Programming Languages (C#, Python, C++)
- Art & Animation Tools (Blender, Adobe Suite, Substance Painter, ZBrush)
- Game Design Methodologies
Our goal is to train students not only as game developers but also as effective game designers, problem solvers, and creative thinkers.
Additionally, we focus on game psychology, player experience research, data analytics, and game marketing strategies to provide a modern, industry-relevant education. The curriculum also covers emerging technologies such as e-sports, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR).
Strong Industry Connections and Practical Experience
Our department offers a practical, industry-driven education, where students get real-world experience through collaborations with leading game companies.
Opportunities include:
- Internships at game studios
- Game development competitions (Game Jams, Hackathons)
- Workshops with industry experts
- Participation in international gaming conventions
We also support students in indie game development and game entrepreneurship, providing the tools and knowledge needed to develop and publish their own projects.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
The digital game industry extends beyond entertainment, encompassing health, education, simulation, AI development, and interactive media. Graduates can pursue careers in:
- Game Designer
- Game Developer (Unity / Unreal Developer)
- Technical Artist
- 3D Modeler and Animator
- Level Designer
- Narrative Designer
- UI/UX Designer
- AR/VR Developer
- Indie Game Developer
- Quality Assurance Tester
Additionally, our graduates are encouraged to establish their own game studios and develop independent projects.
The Department of Digital Game Design at Istanbul Kent University is committed to training individuals who will shape the future of the gaming world, both technically and creatively. If you aspire to merge your imagination with technology and pursue a career in the game industry, we invite you to join this exciting journey.