The latest installment of Linda Soules’s SO YOU WANT TO BE A… series focuses on a relatively new and evolving field: SO YOU WANT TO BE A VIDEO GAME DESIGNER. From the first page, Soules hooks readers by showing a clear respect for the profession with the claim that “a video game designer is part architect, part storyteller, part psychologist, and part mad scientist.” Each section of the book pairs brief informational passages with colorful artwork, providing a clear and concise introduction to this career path for pre-teens. Informational topics covered include where video game designers work, what their responsibilities are, famous designers, rewards, challenges, and different roles in game development (such as programmers, composers, and narrative designers).
Soules clearly researched many aspects of the profession, yet the book never feels bogged down by details. She distills important information into digestible chunks that are infused with excitement for the job, making the text compelling for readers across a range of ages. While the book is advertised for 10-14 year olds, slightly younger gamers may also enjoy it as a read-aloud while older teens may find the straightforward advice helpful with career planning. One section shares exercises to try anywhere (plus free resources to explore) as a way to start developing game-designing skills immediately. Another section busts myths (no, it’s not just playing games all day) and highlights the needed skills people might not expect, sharing a realistic look at the profession. Although a glossary at the end of the book explains some vocabulary, it is definitely written for readers who are already familiar with basic video game conventions and terms.
Beyond the instructional content, what really makes SO YOU WANT TO BE A VIDEO GAME DESIGNER stand out is the aspirational tone. Playing video games is sometimes looked down on by adults, but Soules clearly appreciates the activity and craft behind it. Animated images that focus on the delight and wonder of gaming support the text (Soules notes these are AI-created; yet she does effectively ensure a consistent illustrative style, and the pictures match the book’s tone and content). Communicating her admiration for the creative, complex, and meaningful work that designers do may result in some young readers feeling excited and confident in pursuing game design. Meanwhile, because Soules focuses on the very specific skills needed and challenges to expect, other readers may realize this career path is not for them and yet still come away with a deeper understanding of how the games they love are developed.
Through a combination of practical information, actionable skill-building advice, and passion for the role, Linda Soules’s SO YOU WANT TO BE A VIDEO GAME DESIGNER successfully provides a helpful career guide for pre-teens who love gaming.
~ Cameron Gillespie for IndieReader