Tag Archives: Student

Train2Game News Student developing game to aid Alzhemiers

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The emotional impact of Alzheimer’s disease has been explored by a student computer game project, which will be revealed to the public at the Abertay Digital Graduate Show this Friday (8 May).

Alexander Tarvet developed the idea during his Game Design & Production Management degree, looking at how a game can give a unique first-person experience of a debilitating and distressing medical condition.

He was keen to raise awareness both of the impact memory loss has for the individual patient as familiar objects and people become distant, but also for the immediate family.

There will be 850,000 people living with some form of dementia in the UK by the end of 2015 according to the Alzheimer’s Society, showing how widespread this condition has become.

Alexander said: “Computer games are one of the greatest ways to let people safely explore a situation they’ve never experienced, as you’re creating a whole new world to explore. Many games deal with fantasy and fiction, but I wanted to look at something much more serious.

“Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating condition for everyone affected and their loved ones, and through playing Forget-Me-Knot the player gets an immediate sense of the confusion the character feels.

“They’re in their living room, which should be a safe and comforting space, but it has become hostile and unsettling as they’ve lost memories of the personal objects all around the room.

“The player is in exactly the same position as the person with Alzheimer’s – both have to explore the room and try and piece together an understanding of photos and letters through clues left on shelves and in drawers.

“I hope the project will help anyone who plays the game to understand more about Alzheimer’s disease. Putting yourself into the shoes of the person with the disease gives a very immediate, visceral sense of how disorientating and terrifying it must be to live with long-term memory loss.”

Alexander is one of 170 students showing their final year projects in Abertay University’s main Kydd Building and the Hannah Maclure Centre art gallery, on the top floor of the Student Centre.

Train2Game News Student in Wales on Sunday

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A few days ago a story was posted about Train2Game student, Sean Kelly, who studies whilst protecting ships from Pirates. This story had now been picked up and published in the Wales on Sunday Newspaper.

You can view the newspaper article in the link below

Wales on Sunday T2G 2015 March

Train2Game News Insight into working at Universally Speaking

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Insight into working for Universally Speaking for Train2Game students applying for professional QA positions

As a follow up to our post last week calling for Train2Game students to apply to Universally Speaking , we’ve spoken to students currently working at Universally Speaking to gain their insight into working at the company. We’ve also spoken to Vendor Manager Paul Lambert gives some guidance on what the company are looking for from applicants

Train2Game student Kieron Baker, 24, from Cambridge
 
It feels fantastic to be working professionally in games! I love coming to work and no day is even remotely the same. When I look at the industry as a whole and realise how big it is and how much is going on, it makes me feel proud of my profession, my position within it and the work that I do while here at Universally Speaking.
 
The variances in projects and the working environment are what allow me to enjoy working at Universally Speaking so much. The team we have are really close knit and yet so welcoming and open minded, and the clients that we work with are so varied. One day we could be testing functionality and compatibility on a new mobile game, to then moving on to consoles, and even eLearning the day after. That’s the most fulfilling thing about Universally Speaking, the variety of projects and experience gained that comes with working with many different Developers from all over the world.
 
I really enjoy the working environment and being surrounded by like-minded people, also the abundance of experience that can be gained from working in such a diverse company with some amazing people.
 
Long term goals. If you had asked me a year ago I may have given you a different answer, but I have always wanted to move into design with a view to perhaps becoming a Producer. But for now, I am enjoying my time here at Universally Speaking that I can see myself here for quite a while yet.

Train2Game student, Evaldas Oleinikas, 25, from Lithuania. Currently residing in Bedford UK.
  
It is great to be working in an area that you are still studying. Gaining experience before qualification, in my opinion is very vital part of the good career, although not everyone can do so.
 
Universally Speaking is a superb company to work for, there is always plenty of work to do and one of the main positives is the great work experience gained.

It’s an excellent opportunity to test products before they reach the customers. Ensuring it meets the desired design quality. I enjoy working on projects, seeing how the development becomes the final product.
 
My long term goals are to get qualified at testing and become Senior/Lead tester. Also after my testing course I plan to take developer course and eventually get my own apps developed.

Patrick Lambert, Vendor Manager, Universally Speaking

The current Train2Game students at Universally Speaking brought along very good skills and enthusiasm for testing. Although they originally were only in for a single shorter project they have been with us now for half a year and 18 months, respectively.

At Universally Speaking clients and projects vary a lot, schedules have to be juggled, positions filled at short notice … it is not your standard 9-to-5 job and never gets boring or becomes routine. And that is something I enjoy.

Successful applicants can look forward to being in the company of fellow video game nerds (feel free to ask me about strategy games or RPGs) and free doughnuts every now and then. Jokes aside, it is a good start into work life. You will gain valuable skills like time management and communication skills. The work environment is friendly yet professional and we are always open to suggestions on how to improve ourselves.

Long term, we believe in filling positions from within; our QA manager started as a tester, as did one of our Directors. So I’d say the career prospects are very decent indeed. A sense of humour is needed indeed. While we take our jobs seriously, we don’t take ourselves too seriously.

To receive more details and apply for a position at Universally Speaking contact: mark@train2game.com

Train2Game News Student Overcomes Odds

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Student won’t let Epilepsy stop him from reaching his goal to be a Video Games Artist and create a successful gaming studio

Aspiring games designer studying with Train2Game won’t let his condition and ‘flashing images’ stop him starting a gaming studio and getting a position as an Artist

Scott is originally from Swansea and now living in Woking, Surrey. The 31 year old is currently studying Art and Animation with Train2Game. Scott was diagnosed with intractable Epilepsy caused by band heterotopia when he was eleven.

Scott Evin William’s mother originally assumed it was flashing images from his Sega Master System that caused his epileptic fits. But after taking away the gaming system, Doctors informed the family this wasn’t the case for his specific condition.

In a twist of fate it could now be gaming that really changes Scott’s life for the better. He’s studying with Train2Game to become a Video Games Developer, has started his own studio and is hoping to get employment at a gaming studio in the future.

Living with Epilepsy

“I had a febrile convulsion when I was three.  At nine I was diagnosed with epilepsy mum took away my Master System 2 because she thought it caused the fits. Thinking it was photosensitive epilepsy with the flashing images but this was not correct.”

“Diagnosed with Epilepsy initially I continued with everyday life, pretty good normal childhood. When I reached a working age it really took more of a chunk out of my life than expected; what I could, and couldn’t do for work.”

“My fits can happen at any time. I was out shopping for food, had a fit and collapsed on the shop floor, but a few minutes later got up and continued on shopping, for me it’s just part of my life. I really just accept its part of my life and my family are very supportive about it, but the most important thing is just accept it, move on and forward.”

Studying with Train2Game

“I started Train2Game at the end of 2010. I pay for the course myself and finances are not a problem, its simple monthly payments.  I aim to be done by the end of next year, hopefully with no personal health issues which have caused time delays in the past.”

“Home study is both challenging and rewarding, making sure to keep good time and also make lots of notes. With the support of tutors it really is a place where if you want to make a career out of games, Train2Game can offer many exclusive help and practical events.”

“There are some very challenging parts in the course where I passed exams but you also have to vigorously go over the course material. With progress comes the experience, there is theory that is important to know but a hands on practical approach is what is encouraged from a Train2Game student”

“The tutors, the administration and the Train2Game staff all keep up a great helpful, positive attitude, very good listeners and give help and guidance needed to keep you focused. Forming into teams means you get more from it by networking with those who are at an advanced stage within the course, it’s a great helping hand.”

“Train2Game gives me a relaxing environment of having the tools and books, even extra software to download and learn for a broader skillset, as a result most of the time its very relaxing and as easy-going or intense as I choose it to be, but as long as I get a lesson done I feel nice and relaxed which is great in any case and with my condition.”

“I have the utmost confidence in the course to take me to art director status and there’s no real reason why I will not pass, I grow more confident with every completed lesson so the end goal is only a matter of time.”

Game Studio

“I created a professional studio called ‘Icebox Games Studio’. Our website I created is http://www.uigames.co.uk created for the students who are designers, artists and developers. The layout of my student studio is based on the fact it might be best working freelance from home, so we all work from different locations.”

“Our primary goal is to create levels or playable games to gain experience and knowledge, we also share opinions and support each other with coursework. My role in the team is generally looking after everyone’s interests. I am team leader but treat everyone as equals, so we all share ideas and opinions.”

“We are looking over various ideas for games and are working on some, I personally work with CryENGINE3, but the team has a varied array of skillsets mostly geared toward Unity 4, meaning when we feel we can create a game that looks good in different formats.”

What’s next

“My dream is to be accredited as Lead Artist or Art Director in the opening credits of a game. That  will be when I have a few games under my belt and feel ready to take on such a great role. What I don’t do is put a stop or limit what I can learn. Long after becoming a qualified Artist and Animator, the path into gaming, it will be my choice of where to stop.”

“I know what I simply cannot do, short of that no, I will never stop wanting to learn and helping out other people. Whatever your goal just ask yourself two questions, what is stopping you and who can help you achieve the ultimate your goal. Nobody with a disability should feel any different, if a course that Train2Game provides appeals to you then go for it.”

Train2Game News Agoraphobic works toward dream with Train2Game

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Bryan CoadyBryan Coady, 31 years old, from Birmingham, suffers from Agoraphobia and General Anxiety Disorder. This has resulted in a fear of leaving his house. Being diagnosed with a condition can often affect someone’s life plans and career prospects. But Bryan Coady hasn’t let his medical condition stand in the way and is studying with Train2Game to get qualifications to enter the Games Industry.

“My illness started just after I left school. I started working and very soon after it started getting harder and harder to leave the house. I then had a panic attack and could no longer leave the house. I was diagnosed by the doctors a while ago now. They found out about my condition after the panic attack and I got restricted to my house. I need my family to go out to the shops for me while I’m restricted to my home.”

“I discovered Train2Game and now I’m on the Game Developer course version 2, I believe that I will pass with a great grade. I have joined ‘Unique Intelligence Games’ at www.uigames.co.uk, we are all Train2Game students. It’s a great group of people. We help each other and have a great time doing it. We haven’t started on a game yet as we are still getting the team together.”

“As I have been restricted to my home traditional learning wasn’t an option for me. I started Train2Game about a year and a half ago now. It’s really good as you can control how long you study and when you study. I can learn it at home at my own pace and meet good people along the way. It has given me the chance to get a job and qualified in game development.

“I think Train2Game has had a very positive affect on my life from finding new friends to training to get a master’s degree. I have found the projects at the end of section 2 tough but I’m slowly getting there. I hope to be finished in a few months from now. I would recommend this course to anyone who has dreams of making games that lack the knowledge but has the drive.”

“My dream is to be a game developer with a big company with a team that are willing to make our dreams of making games come true. I hope for people to feel the rush I do playing our games for the first time. For anyone thinking of taking the course I would say determination is everything and it can overcome anything.”

Train2Game News Interview with Fee Stewart on Women in Games

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Fiona StewartFormerdroid Managing Director and former Train2Game student Fee Stewart has made a list of the top 100 women in gaming. We interviewed her about what the nomination meant to her and what it’s like being female in the UK Games Industry.

What does it mean to be included in the list of Top 100 Women In Games?

Personally I am chuffed to be amongst such great women in the industry. It feels great that there is so many women in the industry to be able to narrow it down to 100. I would now like to see the top 100 males too though now! It’s all about inclusion and diversity at the end of the day.

When going about your work, do you see yourself as one of the UK’s high flying women in Gaming?

Definitely not lol. I think I will always feel humble when looking at what others do. I love this industry with an extreme passion so have never felt that I am “Working” when doing what I love. I still feel I haven’t actually achieved anything worthy yet.

How important do you think this kind of event is to females in the Games Industry?

It’s nice to be included. It is nice to see that there are other girls in the industry and if it encourages more girls to join it then it is worth doing but at the end of the day it is equally important that everyone, male and female are made to feel inclusive into the industry.

What are some of your experiences being a Woman in Games?

I am a team player. I don’t look at me and think female, Mother of three. I look at me and see Game Dev. Most of the industry looks and me and sees Game Dev, that is the way it should be. I have had a few occasions where I have been ignored by a few of the male Game Devs who presume I am someone’s wife or girlfriend rather than a Developer myself, which has been a bit annoying.

How can women in Video Games help each other?

I don’t believe it is a case of helping each other. It is nice to meet up with other girls in the industry, sometimes as I miss girly things being with the boys all the time but if you want to be the best then be it. It doesn’t matter if you are male or female. I think it is important that everyone male or female is recognised for good work! I don’t want to be special just because of my sex.

How can people continue to support and drive females working in games?

Be inclusive, don’t assume things. That girl in the group may also be a game developer and might even be a better one than you. Before women get to the workplace teach girls at Primary level to code. Make it acceptable socially to be a girl geek and let toys be toys, not boy’s toys and girl’s toys.

What are you working on now, what do you have planned for the future?

We are getting Splemy ready for iOS and Android. I am also helping organise the next big Gamayo ( Game Makers Yorkshire ) event in April as we have over 500 members. As for the future who knows?

Train2Game News Versatile student finds home at T2G

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Student who tried many careers finds Train2Game is the place where he can accomplish his life’s ambition to work in the Games Industry You name it, he’s tried it.

James Hardman has attempted many directions in his life: Seven years in Education, Franchise Manager, The Navy, Tattoo Artist, Events, Bank Employee and many more. But he’s finally found where he belongs, creating creatures and art in the Games Industry.

It has been an interesting journey for the 30 year old who has roots in Prussia and Egypt. James Hardman has tried everything to get a job and a career that he enjoys, but it took him a great deal of time and effort to find his ideal arena of employment.  Working in hotels, events and working in data processing in a bank. He tried work experience with Jenny Clarke Design Ltd as a Flash Tattoo artist and Aphelio Ltd as a Creature Designer (3 month unpaid internship). He tried to join the Navy and also trained as a franchise manager.

Since birth he’s loved gaming but struggled to make it his career. After many attempts in other directions it was when he joined Trai2Game that he rediscovered his love of gaming and found the passion to get into games.

“To enter the game industry is more than a job to me; it’s a sense of identity and my place in life. I noticed through each job role generates a certain type of person. I am specific type of individual needing to be a specific type of environment to really take off. I feel mis-understood in many job roles due to my style of thinking and how I approach subjects to produce solutions.

It is really important to me to around great people who support each other and understand each other without constant questioning of one’s self. I’ve had seven years in education and two at T2G. Proving it’s not just qualifications but you also need experience, that is why I am now looking to work and gain experience in art.”

“My experience with Train2Game has been the best course I’ve entered. The course not also teaches essential techniques but provides many opportunities of job placements. Also get your name out there. The course itself already has done so much for me, I am forever grateful. They have really improved my self-esteem and I can see hope finally. The content is up to date and explains all vital processes very clearly.”

James is now completing his studies with Train2Game and looking for an internship/employment at a games studio. James is a great conversation; ask him about his roots in a country that no longer exists or how he created an energy loop that he was going to build with a team of Belgian Nuclear Physicists.

You can find James on the Train2Game Forum or reach him through the Train2Game blog.

Train2Game News My blog is your blog

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Train2GameIt is coming up to the Christmas holidays and I am giving you the chance to voice your opinions on what you like to be heard on the Train2Game blog!

Some of you may remember that last year we had some students do some fantastic blogs that went out over the Christmas period and they were so popular we are going to do it again! You get to have your opinions heard and get your name out there in the gaming world.

You can write your blog on anything games related you like from reviews to opinions to advertisements for your upcoming games and studios, the choice is yours!

If you are interested in writing a blog to be seen on Train2Game News all you need to do is email me at Mark@train2game.com with the blog and a related image.

Get creative and have fun!

Train2Game News GirlsGotGame Design contest

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One Small Step Games and Ares Magazine are holding a GirlsGotGame Design Contest, a competition that focuses on game designs by women.

“Since we launched the contest last month, we’ve received a lot of support and encouragement from people in the industry,” says OSS Games owner Michael Anderson, who decided to increase the grand prize to $200 and extend the contest through the holidays and to the end of January in order to give more women a chance to enter.

The Ares team hopes to publish a game from the contest in the fourth issue of the magazine. “Our plan is to highlight a number of science fiction and fantasy fiction stories written by women in the fiction line up for that issue,” says Executive Editor Carmen Andres. “Wrapping the magazine around a challenging and exciting game designed by a woman would strengthen the package.”

Designers receive $1000 if a game is chosen for publication.

Designers are free to use any format and components they choose, but Anderson notes that the purpose of the contests is to find games to publish in Ares.  Extra credit will be given to designs that use the components of games that run in the magazine.

The contest runs until midnight January 31, 2015. If more than eight designs are received, a runner up will be selected to receive $25. Entrants are limited to women.

Contest information, component guidelines, and the online entry form are on the website of Ares Magazine at www.aresmagazine.com.

To enter the contest, select Game Design Contest #2: Girls Got Game under the Ares Online menu. To subscribe to Ares, go to www.ossgamescart.com.

Train2Game News Flawless Studios recruiting

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New Train2Game student studio on the hunt for team members

Flawless Studios looking for Train2Game students to join existing young team and work on The Damned One

The Flawless Studios team are working on a British set survival horror game called: The Damned One. It is about a village where people are mysteriously going missing, after the lead character summons a demon through a Ouija board. The hero then goes through the game searching for his family, closely pursued by the demon.

Flawless Studios is made up of three members: Lead Designer and CEO: Aaron Miles, Ashley Miles: Audio engineer and composer and Artist: Mike Cahill. The team is looking for dedicated artists and developers. The successful applicant will be someone who can commit time to a project all the way to its completion. The team are currently looking for Artists and Developers. But they are open to interest from all Developers, if you are skilled, they want you in the team. It’s an unpaid opportunity but the experience will be great for students portfolios.

The team are relatively early into the course but they have the enthusiasm and dedication to get making games. Long term they plan to launch a successful games on to the Playstation Store and Xbox Live, they want to create a dedicated fan base of gamers following the work they create.

To apply all you need to do is get in touch with the team and be able to dedicate your time to a project. Apply by emailing aaronmilescontact@gmail.com