Articles, Online Course, Game Design
Gabe Mac
How to Design a Video Game: A Beginner’s Guide ...

Want to build your first game but don't know where to start? Read our step-by-step guide to video game design, from core hook to the magic of "game feel."

How to Design a Video Game: A Beginner’s Guide (Step-by-Step)
Podcast, Online Course
Gabe Mac
Thinking Like a Designer - The Game Beyond ...

Learn why top game designers focus on systems rather than just "fun." Discover how to harness Cognitive Surplus to turn players into problem solvers.

Thinking Like a Designer - The Game Beyond Podcast Season 2 Episode 1
Articles
Gabe Mac
Game World Generator

Not another random generator.

This one thinks like a game designer:
• Worlds
• Gameplay verbs
• Tone & audience
• Visual direction

Here’s a sneak peek 👇
#GameDesign #WorldGenerator

Game World Generator
Articles
Gabe Mac
Why Serious Game Design is the Future of ...

Serious game design is changing how we solve problems. These games are fun but also teach important lessons. Our masterclass will show you how to make these games and use them to tackle real-world issues.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand the history and evolution of serious game design.

  • Learn the key principles for balancing fun and educational value in game design.

  • Discover the various applications of serious games in industries like healthcare, corporate training, and education.

  • Grasp the importance of playtesting and iteration in creating effective games.

Why Serious Game Design is the Future of Problem-Solving
Online Course
Gabe Mac
Game Design Masterclass

In 2012 I set out to teach the secrets I had learned, of Serious Game Design. Since then thousands of students have taken my Basic Game Design Course online so far. Since I launched it 6 years ago, I have had lots of great feedback about how it helped inspire and change people's lives. This makes me so excited to announce the following news.

Game Design Masterclass

holiday

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7 Holiday Gift Exchange Games to Brighten Your Celebrations

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7 Holiday Gift Exchange Games to Brighten Your Celebrations

🎁✨ Unwrap the Fun This Holiday Season! ✨🎁

Looking for unique ways to spice up your holiday celebrations? 🎉 We've got you covered with our latest blog post on 7 heartwarming gift exchange games! 🎲🎅 From the laughter-filled White Elephant to the intriguing Dutch Santa, discover games that bring joy and connection to your festive gatherings. 🌟

Plus, delve into the magic behind the joy of giving. 🧠💖 Learn how these traditions do more than just spread cheer – they're a key to stronger community bonds!

Curious? Head over to our blog to read more and start planning your holiday fun now! 📖🎄

Latest News
How to Learn Game Design Without a Degree (Step-by-Step Roadmap)
How to Learn Game Design Without a Degree (Step-by-Step Roadmap)

Can you become a game designer without spending thousands on a college degree? Yes. Read our step-by-step roadmap to self-taught game design mastery in 2026.

Can Game Design FIX the Real World? - TGB Podcast S2 E10
Can Game Design FIX the Real World? - TGB Podcast S2 E10

The world is full of broken systems (education, health, finance) that are filled with anxiety or boredom. Game designers have the tools to fix them.

Minecraft vs. The Last of Us: Narrative or Declarative Design? - TGB Podcast S2 E9
Minecraft vs. The Last of Us: Narrative or Declarative Design? - TGB Podcast S2 E9

Do you want to tell a story, or let the player build one? We compare Narrative (scripted) design with Declarative (emergent) design and show you how to choose the right path for your project.

3 Real-World Game Design Document Examples to Inspire Your Next Project
3 Real-World Game Design Document Examples to Inspire Your Next Project

Want to see what a professional game blueprint looks like? Analyze three legendary real-world Game Design Document (GDD) examples.

AAA vs. Indie Game Design Documents: What’s the Difference?
AAA vs. Indie Game Design Documents: What’s the Difference?

How do AAA studios like Rockstar or Nintendo document their games compared to a solo indie dev? Learn the difference and find the right style for your project.