Aelyss Game Development Academy
Learn how to make video games with access to over 140 curated tips on game design.
What is Aelyss Game Development Academy?
The Aelyss Game Development Academy is a comprehensive educational platform that explores the video game development process from the perspective of a game designer—whether you are working independently or as part of a team.
A game designer is anyone involved in making decisions about how a game will function and feel. Whether you are a programmer, artist, writer, or hold another role within game development, if you are shaping a game’s direction and mechanics, this platform is designed to help you grow into a more capable and insightful game designer.
Not a game designer, but a game enthusiast? Aelyss is also an excellent resource for anyone interested in understanding how emotionally compelling and engaging games are created.
What You Will Get
Game Design Tips
- Access to 140+ topics covering various aspects of the game development process
- Regular updates to existing tips and ongoing additions in both new and existing areas
- A powerful search feature to easily locate relevant topics and terminology
- Numerous examples provided through screenshots, gameplay footage, illustrations, and sound recordings for clearer understanding
- 100+ accessibility features, with more being added regularly
- 280+ common player complaints addressed to help you avoid common pitfalls
- 130+ methods for adjusting difficulty, catering to various player skill levels
Topics Covered
Key Incentives for Playing Games
Discover what motivates players to immerse themselves in virtual worlds and create their own experiences.
Forming the General Idea of Your Game
Understand the key elements to define before entering full production.
Game Design Document
Learn the importance of a GDD and how it supports the development process.
Nonlinear Gameplay
Explore how to introduce meaningful player choice and dynamic progression.
Multiplayer Gameplay
Uncover strategies for creating engaging experiences for multiple players.
Atmosphere
Utilize visual, audio, and narrative tools to create a compelling game atmosphere.
Story
Examine the narrative functions within games and how to effectively implement them.
Learning Process
Learn how to onboard and teach players in an engaging and intuitive way.
Accessibility
Design for inclusivity by making your game accessible to players of varying abilities and skill levels.
Objectives
Understand how objectives can guide player behavior and enhance engagement.
Rewards
Explore various types of rewards and how to implement them effectively.
Control System
Ensure your game controls are intuitive, accessible, and responsive.
Output System
Design effective player feedback through visual, auditory, and haptic channels.
Level Design
Master the principles of creating enjoyable and balanced game levels.
Playtesting
Learn how to conduct meaningful playtesting to refine your game experience.
Glossary
- Over 500 entries explaining key game development terminology
- Each term linked to related sections (e.g., “Level Design”)
- Visual aids including screenshots, illustrations and gameplay footage to support learning
Reference Pictures
Home Page
- Browse over 700 geotagged images for creative inspiration
- Download individual images or curated photo bundles
- Most images captured at 24 MP; panoramic shots available up to 285 MP
- Photographed using a full-frame camera with a 50mm fixed lens for minimal distortion and exceptional sharpness
- Carefully post-processed to preserve natural color and detail
- Images are framed and timed to minimize distractions or unwanted elements
Catalogue Page
- Filter search results by Category, Main Subjects, Country, Location, and Resolution
- Full-text search functionality with responsive AJAX-based filtering
- Pagination for fast and intuitive navigation (no infinite scroll)
Single Picture Page
- Each reference photo page includes detailed metadata: Name, Categories, Main Subjects, Resolution, Location, Country, Photo ID, and Geotag Data
- Geotag information includes GPS coordinates and camera orientation at the time of capture
- “View larger map” button opens the image location in Google Maps for additional context, including Street View when available
Why Choose Aelyss
Expertly Curated Content
Every piece of content on the Aelyss platform has been designed to offer meaningful insight without unnecessary filler, allowing you to focus your energy on the creative process.
Extensive Knowledge Base
More than 140 thoroughly researched tips and an expansive glossary give you a solid foundation in all aspects of game design.
Fast and Centralized Learning
Avoid spending countless hours browsing scattered resources. Find everything you need in one streamlined platform.
Unlimited Access
With a subscription, enjoy full and continuous access to all content.
Idea Generation Support
Use our structured tips and examples to spark new ideas and fuel your design process.
Affordable Education
Begin learning for just $6.99 per month.
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