Noah Rigden

BA (Hons) Video Game Design and Production student

Did you find it easy to settle in when you first started? 

Absolutely! When we all first started I knew no one and thought I was completely out of my depth. However, I don't think there could have been a better welcome at the start. I got to know all of my classmates very quickly, as well as the teaching staff, who got us involved in ice-breaker activities. 

What types of projects did you do during your first year?

Firstly... a lot of writing! Get used to writing a lot, as it's incredibly important as a developer and producer to be able to write clearly, and effectively. I won't spoil anything but the different assignments/ projects we got as first years developed our skills as both designer and producers. We did did everything from writing a fully referenced document that tackled a very popular debate, to designing our own 2D game, as well as lots of 10 minute presentations. 

What have you enjoyed most about the course so far?

So far, definitely designing and creating our own board game. It's incredibly interesting to fully design it, but also quite difficult to make one that is actually enjoyable and fun to play! I had a blast making and playing it. 

What is the community at the School of Games, Film and Animation like?

I can't say much outside of the Video Game aspect of the School, but I have not met a single person who is not a nice person. Absolutely everyone I have met - the people on my specific course, all the teaching staff and everyone on the other video games courses- have been great! 

Have you had any opportunities to work with people from the video games industry?

I know the plan was originally for us to make a game in our teams to present in front of guests from the video games industry, but unfortunately this was put on hold due to the pandemic. However, I'm certain that there will be some opportunities in future due to the School’s incredible links with gaming companies across the UK! 

Why should someone join the course and what advice would you give to someone about to start?

If you want to get into the video game industry, and specifically as a designer or producer, I literally cannot recommend another course. BCU has incredible opportunities and has the best lecturers I have ever had in my educational life. They're not just teachers; I would go so far as to say that I would consider them all friends because they're all such incredible people. 

As for advice? Be ready to get out of your comfort zone, but know that you’re not expected to know everything when you start. You will build these skills. I personally could not talk very well in crowds before this course. I could barely talk to other people I did not fully know, and now I am able to present to over 60 people at once. You will love this course.