GDC Courses

Tile-Based Map Generation Using Wave Function Collapse in Caves of Qud

Explore innovative tile-based map generation techniques using Wave Function Collapse for procedurally generated ruins in 'Caves of Qud', as presented by Freehold Games at GDC 2019.

• YouTube
• 22 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Breaking the Ankh - Deterministic Propagation Netcode in 'Spelunky 2'

Explore deterministic propagation netcode implementation in Spelunky 2, covering rollback, liquid physics, interpolation, latency issues, and multiplayer challenges.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 5 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Final Fantasy VII Remake - Automating Quality Assurance and the Tools for the Future

Explore Square Enix's innovative replay system for Final Fantasy VII Remake, revolutionizing game QA with automation and cost-effective tools for future projects.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

The Flappy Bird That Laid the Golden Egg - Success in Hyper-Casual

Uncover the secrets behind hyper-casual game success, exploring key factors and quality elements that drive profitability in this rapidly evolving mobile gaming genre.

• YouTube
• 28 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Using Lean Analytics to Make Better Games

Learn how to apply lean analytics in game development to understand users, make data-driven decisions, and improve game performance without slowing down production.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 3 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Master of the Katana - Melee Combat in 'Ghost of Tsushima'

Explore the intricacies of melee combat design in 'Ghost of Tsushima', uncovering key insights on player skill, game balance, and iterative development for an immersive samurai experience.

• YouTube
• 50 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Super Powering Technical Artists Using Deep Learning

Explore generative models in game development, focusing on style transfer, neural doodling, and image translation. Learn how deep learning enhances technical artistry and animation in Unity.

• YouTube
• 32 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

User Story Mapping - Developing a Shared Understanding

Learn user story mapping techniques to align teams, reduce waste, and define clear goals in game development.

• YouTube
• 59 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Beyond NPCs - AI for Game Operations

Explore Zynga's innovative use of AI in mobile game operations, from user acquisition to personalized experiences, enhancing gameplay and strategic decision-making.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

The Defining Themes of the Modern Console Market

Explore key themes shaping modern console gaming, from hardware generations to evolving business models and ecosystem strategies. Gain insights into market trends and manufacturer approaches.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Root - A Usability Postmortem

Joshua Yearsley shares insights on Root's development, discussing usability challenges, design decisions, and lessons learned in game creation, with a focus on improving player experience and rule clarity.

• YouTube
• 41 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

2D Animation for Games - A Primer

Explore essential 2D character animation skills for game development, covering principles, techniques, and industry insights to enhance your animation prowess and create engaging game visuals.

• YouTube
• 56 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Reinforcement Learning in Action - Creating Arena Battle AI for Blade & Soul

Discover how NCSOFT created pro-level AI agents for arena battles in Blade & Soul using reinforcement learning, addressing complexity and real-time response challenges.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

How to Represent Mental Illness in Games

Explore realistic portrayals of mental illness in gaming with Dr. Jennifer Hazel. Learn about stigma, statistics, and specific disorders to create more authentic and respectful representations in game design.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 7 minutes
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk

Interactive Wind and Vegetation in 'God of War'

Explore the development of interactive wind and vegetation systems in 'God of War', enhancing player immersion through dynamic environmental elements and character interaction.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 1 minute
• On-Demand
• Conference Talk