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Game Mechanics & Systems Design

About This Course

This course focuses on refining existing game designs and the final play experience. You'll examine game balancing, costing, and the design principles behind successful digital and tabletop games. You'll also focus on playtesting games to create production-ready designs, and work in groups to redesign and improve classic board games, which will be reviewed by peers and industry professionals.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

  • Core game developmental heuristics and design processes
  • Frameworks for grouping and segmentation game mechanics
  • Costing and balancing strategies for game elements
  • Advanced tools for iterative playtesting and game analytics
  • Techniques for organizing and leading game design teams

Course Sessions

Hybrid

January 2027
Dates Jan 9 - Mar 13
Location Downtown Seattle, Online
Instructor Glenn Jones
Cost $1,765
Scheduled Meetings
Date
Day
Time
Location
Jan 9, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Downtown Seattle
Jan 16, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Online
Jan 23, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Downtown Seattle
Jan 30, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Online
Feb 6, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Downtown Seattle
Feb 13, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Online
Feb 20, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Downtown Seattle
Feb 27, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Online
Mar 6, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Downtown Seattle
Mar 13, 2027
Sat
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Downtown Seattle

All times are Pacific Time.

Course Note

This course runs from January 9, 2027, to March 13, 2027, and includes both online coursework and in-person classes.

Noncredit Course

You'll earn 3.0 continuing education units (CEUs) for successfully completing this course.