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i am thinking about going to school for video game design but i am not totally sure if it would be a solid investment for my future.
This doesn't really answer your questions but I feel it is some good information on "going to school for video game design". I had the same idea about your age. "I like video games, I like computers, maybe I could build games!". So I had played with a little bit of coded. Was moderately skilled with HTML and a little PHP. I had wrote several games in Game Maker to help get me started. So after HS I went for a 2yr associates degree at the localCommunity College in Computer Science to get me started. I quickly found out programming was not as fun as I thought it would be. I stuck it out though, but by the end I realized I didn't want to code for video games.
So what I would recommend is before you get to college, start learning some programming. There are plenty of guides online to teach you the basics of C++. Don't start with Java like my stupid classes had me doing. C++ I find to be easier.
Also, there are a LOT of parts that go into a "video game design". Graphic deisgn, 3D modeling, building physics engines, scripting events, building the environment, level design, play testing, scripting the characters, etc.
I would recommend narrowing your focus from "video game design" on a specific area based on your talents, skills, and what you like to do.
I know this doesn't have anything to do with how long it takes to learn, but I'm hoping my experiences helps you some. I went into "wanting to build video games" unprepared, and really didn't realize what I was getting myself into. Do some prep work and make life easier on your self.
If you have the passion for it, and a bit more practice than what you already have behind you, you should be able to do what your heart is telling you to do.
To answer your question, only a couple years, but it depends on what college you attend and how well you comprehend the work that is put in front of you.
No problem. I was just thrown a lot of curve balls I wasn't expecting, and I feel if I had been more prepared it would have went much better.
thank you for your input. I have put it into consideration and am thinking about starting the C++ thing you were talking about.
Go to the school,I"ll hire you when I start realizing my game idea. ;)
Your welcome
thanx
