Bsc Computing With Game Dev, It Tralee

NFQ Level 7 – See http://www.nfq.ie

This course is designed to develop your general computing skill and competence so that you can use computers to perform a variety of useful tasks. Its primary focus is on developing your ability to use computer languages that you will find prepare you to operate and work with computers and computer systems in a wide variety of ways:

Speaking the coded language of the computer and writing software – Introduction to Programming, Object Oriented Programming 1,2,3 & 4, Algorithms, Structured Analysis and Design, Object Oriented Analysis and Design
*Understanding the computer as a system – Computer Architecture, Operating Systems
*How computers can be connected and made work together – Network Fundaments, Routing Concepts and Protocols, Local Area Networks (LAN) Switching and Wireless, Wide Area Networks (WAN) Services and Security
*Using computer to work with and manage data – Database Concepts, Introduction to Database Programming
*Providing users with a way to interact with computers – Visual Communications, Web Design, Digital Imaging, Web Design for Multiple Platforms, Human Computer Interaction.

As a student specialising in the area of Games Development you will take additional course content including:

*Design and graphics – Interactive Storytelling, Computer Graphics Animation in D&D, Digital Audio, Digital Video Production
*Creating games – Games Development, Games Design.

For more see http://www.ittralee.ie/en/InformationAbout/Courses/SchoolofBusinessComputingandHumanities/Computing/TL711-BScInComputingwithGamesDevelopment/

For more information:

Head of Department Computing
Ms Mary Lucey
Email: Mary.Lucey@staff.ittralee.ie
Room(s): T229
Tel: +353 (0)66 7191863 Ext: 1863.

Bsc (Hons) Computing With Game Dev, It Tralee

NFQ Level 8 – See http://www.nfq.ie

The first three years of this four year honours programme are shared with the BSc in Computing with Games Development. The fourth year is designed to equip the student with honours degree graduate skills.

The fourth year includes the following Computing content:
*Advanced computing – Distributed Computing, Mobile Technology
*Software development – Software Quality Management
*Project activities – Computer Project 3 and 4
*Management – Management and the Business Environment, Software Project Management
*Industrial experience or equivalent -Work Placement

It also includes a specialist module in Games Development:
Designing computer games – Games Middleware, Digital Image Processing.

See http://www.ittralee.ie/en/InformationAbout/Courses/SchoolofBusinessComputingandHumanities/Computing/TL811-BScHonsInComputingwithGamesDevelopment/

Further Information

Text COMPUTING followed by your
name and your query to 087 9097866

Or

Head of Department Computing
Ms Mary Lucey
Email: Mary.Lucey@staff.ittralee.ie
Room(s): T229
Tel: +353 (0)66 7191863 Ext: 1863.

Nfq Level 5 – Certificate In Music Production For Games, Gcd, Dublin..

Griffith College Dublin has partnered with Windmill Lane Academy (WLA) to jointly deliver a Certificate In Music Production For Games programme.

The one year programme embraces learners from a variety of musical backgrounds. Focus will be on developing creative strategies by underpinning practical and theoretical knowledge of games music production techniques through creative assignments and industry relevant projects. By studying game development and game interactivity learners gain a deep understanding of how games are created.

The programme features production skills, recording techniques, composing techniques, sequencing, sampling and sound processing. As part of the programme, learners will be prepared for professional industry certification from Digidesign ProTools and Logic.

Course content includes
*Music Technology
*Applications Technology
*Music and Image
*Sound Design for Games
*Music Composition for Games
*Games Development
*Interactive Storytelling

See http://www.gcd.ie/certificate-in-music-production-for-games/

Nfq Level 6 – Games Analysis & Design (Pulse College)

This course gives an introduction to some of the programmes used in producing games, with the aim of preparing the individual for entry into the industry and/or further specialisation.

Students will learn how to create game art and assets using packages such as 3ds Max and Mudbox. Sound production and editing will be included to train you to design soundscapes and effects. Basic programming will reveal the theory involved in game development.

Industry standard game engines and middleware such as Gamebryo Lightspeed (used to develop the massively popular Fallout 3) will demonstrate how technologies are combined to deliver a final product.

Course Content
•Game production techniques.
•Game analysis –understanding what’s going on under the hood, in modern 3d games.
•Learn the key elements of development in the production of a Game title.
•Game Art, Design and Programming. More info »
•Concept and pre-visualise the look of complex scenes.
•Development of 3d game Levels.
•Produce realistic game levels for first and 3rd person games.
•Character design for game development.
•3d Animation for characters and objects in a 3d environment.
•Learn camera and lighting techniques in a 3d environment.
•Sound for use in Interactive Media. More info »
•Texturing, lighting, propping and adding special effects.
•Produce a portfolio of work that will help get you into the industry.

Photoshop
•Its usage within the Production Pipeline of the games industry.
•Photoshop as a Photo manipulation tool.
•Photoshop as a Paint package, producing concept art.
•Working with layering techniques and Photoshop’s layer effects.
•Creating Tiling textures for game use.
•Painting custom textures over a 3d objects, Unwrapped Wireframe Template.
•Developing complex materials using Bump, Normal and Spec maps.
•Creating Costume Brushes, Masks, Vector paths, Interface buttons and Icons.

3d studio max
•3d Modelling of Characters, Weapons, Props, Vehicles and Environments for game development.
•Texturing and shading. From simple cartoon styles and colours to advanced photo-real bump mapped objects.
•3d Animation for characters.
•Rendering 3d scenes for multiple uses in game production.
•The uses of Lighting and Camera techniques in 3d worlds.
•Creating special effects using the toolset within max.
•Creating complex Bump and Spec textures from within 3Ds Max.
•Baking textures from High polygon 3d models onto lower poly game models.
•Importing and exporting of files from other 3d packages and art programmes.
Z-brush and/ or Mudbox
•Sculpting 3d models using methods that resemble traditional Clay Sculpting.
•The baking of Textures from the High polygon/ detailed objects to appear on much lower Poly objects in the game environment.
•Painting textures directly onto 3d models, adding bump detail where necessary.

Qualifications Gained
Fetac Level 6 In Game Analysis and Design
[See http://www.nfq.ie for details on levels]

Duration:
Attendance: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 1pm – 9pm
Wednesday: Off
Friday 10.15am – 4pm
Project and practical time is held Mon-Fri and equates to 20 Hrs per week.

This course is available as a full time and part time option.

Cost
This course costs €6,500 + €270 exam fee [2011 figure]

For more contact:
Cliodhna Pierce,
Pulse College,
67 Pleasants Place,
Dublin 8.

p :01 4784045

see http://www.pulsecollege.eu/gaming/overview

Bsc (Hons) Degree In Computer Science, Dit

The DIT Faculty of Science located in Kevin St., Dublin, has offered courses in Computing since 1983. We currently offer a range of full time and part time undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Of particular interest to prospective games developers are our Honours Degree in Computer Science (DT228) and our Honours Degree in Computing (DT211).

The Honours Degree in Computer Science (DT228) runs for four years full time. It provides students with a wide range of practical skills required by games developers including programming in C, C++ and Java, computer maths and software engineering. In the third year of the course, students take a number of core subjects but also choose two out of four streams – Games Programming, Software Development and Internet Systems, Computer Systems Architecture and Administration or Data and Knowledge Management. All of the streams offer students the opportunity to undertake a six month work placement in the second semester of third year, which can games related.

In the final year of their degree, students specialise in one of the two streams they have chosen in third year. Students choosing the games programming specialisation take six core subjects – Game Worlds, Mobile and Multi-user Games, Artificial Intelligence 1 & 2, Game Middleware and Game Behaviour. Students taking this stream have access to a cutting edge games programming lab. In the final year of the course students must also undertake a significant software project and games have always featured highly as choices for student projects. Students also choose two elective subjects which may include music technology, digital audio, geographic information systems, graphics, image processing and assistive technology among others.

The Honours Degree in Computing (DT211) runs for four years full time, with the option of a certificate after two years or an ordinary degree after three years. This course has a practical focus and is designed to produce graduates that can work as software developers and hardware engineers in commercial and technological areas. This course similarly offers students a wide range of practical skills including programming, computer hardware, networking and databases. Elements of this course are offered in partnership with industry leaders including CISCO and Oracle. Students taking this course can opt for an internship in year three and four, where they spend up to two days per week on a supervised placement in the computer industry. In the fourth year of this course, students have access to the full range of electives including artificial intelligence, computer graphics, music technology and games programming.

We hope that our courses offer students the flexibility to work at all levels and in many specialist areas of the computer industry including games development.

Nfq Level 5 – Game Design & Animation – Dorset College, Dublin

NFQ Level 5 – certificate – see http://www.nfq.ie

Pre-requisites

Computer users with an interest in Game Design Development and Animation

Course Aim

To provide students with the skills and knowledge required to progress their career in in this field and take advantage of new opportunities in the Game Design Industry.

Principal Areas of Study

Concepts of Games Studies

Games Critique and Analysis

Games Concept Development

Practical Game Development

Basics of studio and location sound production

Photo Shop

Digiital 3D Modelling Techniques using Blender

Assessment
Students are assessed as follows:

Assignment 20%
Learner Record 30%
Project 50%

Qualification
On successful completion of all assignments and Project students will be awarded a FETAC Games Studies Component Certificate Level 5

What Software will I be Using?
Unity 3d Game Engine
Blender animation and modeling software
Game salad for Mac OSX (2d game creation)
Elements of Photoshop and Google Sketchup
Introduction to Java Script for Unity
Logic 9 sound engine
Basics of the Unity fmod sound engine

Details
Location: Dublin 1
Start date: 20/03/2012 28/06/2012
Duration: 15 Weeks Tues & Thurs 06.30-09.30 p.m.
Cost: €850.00

For more see http://www.dorset-college.ie/Computing/courses/course_details/?rid=3&cid=126

Nfq Level 5 – Introduction To Games Analysis & Design, Clane College (Kildare)

NFQ LEvel 5 – certificate – see http://www.nfq.ie

In this part-time Game Design evening course you will be introduced to the fundamental principles and techniques one must master in the design and development of a prototype game.

Game development and design is a highly exciting and versatile industry, providing opportunities for all kinds of people in widely varied design and development roles.

On this course, you will be introduced to subjects and disciplines such as:

2D Texture Art
3D Modelling & Animation
Game Logic Programming
Digital Sculpting
Design principles

Using industry standard game engines such as Unity 3D as well as other cutting edge software packages for image editing and 3D modelling, on this Game Design course you will be thought how to conceptualise, storyboard, design, build and program your very own game. Successful learners may wish to progress on to our Full Time Game Development Course.

Qualification:
FETAC Level 5 Minor Award in Games Analysis & Design

Duration:
This course runs 6:30 – 9:30PM, one evening per week for a total of 12 weeks.

Contact Us:
richard@clanecollege.com

Tel: 045 893 676

see http://www.clanecollege.com/cc/index.php/game-design-intro

Nfq Level 6 – Game Development & Design, Clane College (Kildare)

This year-long course has been designed to provide you with a well rounded introduction to the major aspects of game development, with a focus on art and design principles.

While there is an appropriate amount of theoretical content on the course, it has been designed from inception to be as
practical and hands-on as possible.

Students on this course will be instructed in the processes and techniques involved in developing a game from concept to completion, through the utilisation of industry standard game engines such as Unity 3D & UDK.

All appropriate content creation packages will be explored and exploited for the purposes of 3D Modelling, 2D Imaging and Digital Sculpting.

Upon successful completion of the course, graduates will be presented with a number of opportunities for progression. One option is to specialise in a particular discipline, and continue your studies to graduate or post-graduate level.

Others may wish to take a more direct approach, endeavoring to launch their own indie studios. Whatever your choice, career
guidance will be provided throughout the course.

Note: Also available is an introductory evening class, which results in a minor award in Games Analysis & Design.

Qualification:
NFQ Level 6 Major Award in Media. See http://www.nfq.ie

Duration:
Full-time September – June

Contact Us:
richard@clanecollege.com

See http://www.clanecollege.com/cc/index.php/game-design/full-time-game-design-day-course

Bsc In Computing In Multimedia Programming At Dliadt

Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology is one of many third level institutions in Ireland to have embraced the emerging discipline of multimedia. The BSC in Computing Multimedia Programming at Dun Laoghaire is a three year computing course during which students specialise in multimedia production.

Modules of relevance to games developers include Multimedia Authoring and Multimedia Communications. A lot of programming in Action Script and Lingo is covered, indicating a strong emphasis on the web as the interactive medium. Maths is studied as a tool for conceptualization and 3D modelling.

What is Multimedia Programming?

Multimedia (or digital media) is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry that offers excellent career opportunities for talented students. It refers to the use of different types of audiovisual data, or media, in computer applications. These media include images, animations, video clips and sound clips.

Multimedia Programming refers to the creation and development of these multimedia computer applications. Examples include: computer games, web sites, mobile applications and e-learning applications.

You will learn the skills and knowledge required to work in the busy IT industry. You will study computer programming (using Java), and how computers and the Internet work. You will also study specific multimedia subjects, including web development, and multimedia design and programming. The concepts required to create complex multimedia applications are just as important, and this often requires the use of applied mathematics concepts, such as using the theory of velocity, acceleration and friction to plot the motion of a car in a computer game.

AT IADT, you will develop the personal and professional skills to work as a mature, self-confident professional in the IT industry, and specifically the multimedia/digital media sector. The programme provides students with a specialisation in the technical design and implementation of complex multimedia systems.

Mathematics is a significant component in a number of modules, so you should be comfortable with studying maths.

Aims and Objectives

Most graduates opt to progress to DL142, IADT’s BSc (Honours) in Computing in Multimedia Systems / Web Engineering (Level 8 Award). You can also continue your studies at Honours Degree level in other institutions of Higher Education in Ireland or overseas.

Students graduating from this programme have found employment in games development, web application development, computer-based training and e-Learning application development, software development, and project management.

What modules will I study?

Year 1

Computer Technology, Web Programming I, Programming, Multimedia Authoring I, Digital Media Production Techniques, Computer Modelling I, Contemporary Issues in Multimedia

Year 2

Web Programming II, Software Production, Computer Architecture and Operating Systems, Algorithms and Data Structures, Multimedia Authoring and Design, Database Management Systems, Web Design, Video and 3-D Modelling Production

Year 3

Object-Oriented Programming and Design, Computer Modelling II, Computer Networks and Distributed Systems, Multimedia Programming, Digital Media Entrepreneurship

Students also choose one option from either: an individual project or The IDEA Project combined with Multimedia Programming Practice.

Are there any costs for materials and/or field trips?

The expenditure in this programme is of €50 approximately per year. You will have to purchase USB sticks, CD-Rom, DVDs, headphones, microphones, etc. It would be desirable that students could purchase their own digital camera. Cost could vary from €100 to €400.

Essentials:
Location: Kill Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Duration: 3

See http://www.iadt-dl.ie/en/ProspectiveStudents/SchoolsCourses/SchoolofCreativeTechnologies/BScinComputinginMultimediaProgramming/

Nfq Level 5 – Computer Games And Interactive Entertainment, Bcfe (Dub)

Originally called the LUDO course at Ballyfermot Senior College, this course pre-empted the demand for third level training in computer-games design and development.

The course, which has a duration of one year, covers the basics of C++ programming, 3D modelling (3Dmax) and animation and analysis and design of games. Also covered is the History and development of the Games Industry, Digital Audio Production (Soundscape and Soundforge), Computer Architecture Systems.

There is a final project requirement, which takes the form of a partially implemented example of a game concept and design presented as a kind of “pitch” for an idea. There are no options during the course.

We spoke to Diarmuid O’Brien, from Ballyfermot Senior College, and he underlined that the course is intended as a solid foundation for anyone with the intention of working in games development. The course, he said, introduces the techniques and concepts behind audio, video and programming with application to interactive entertainment solely in mind.

Entry to the course is based on a basic leaving certificate or equivalent, an interview and a portfolio. The portfolio can include animations, artwork, multimedia – it is important that candidates display, above all, an interest and enthusiasm for games development.

Course Content:

History and development of the Games Industry, 3D Computer Animation and Modelling (3Dmax), Games Analysis and Design, Digital Audio Production (Soundscape and Soundforge), Computer Graphics and Computer Programming, Computer Architecture Systems, Design, Communications.

Entry Requirements:
Five passes in Leaving Certificate/LCVP or a merit in Leaving Certificate Applied or FETAC level 4 Certificate. Good computer literacy and a knowledge of computer games styles.

Certification:
FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Information Technology (CITXX). See http://www.nfq.ie

Progression:
Graduates with a merit profile may apply for entry to BTEC National Higher Diploma courses in Multimedia and in Computer Games Development in BCFE.

The academic entry requirements may be waived for mature applicants (21+). Graduates are eligible to apply to progress to Higher Education Courses through the Higher Education Links Scheme and through the Pilot Scheme.

Essentials:
Location:Ballyfermot College of Further Education, Ballyfermot Road, Dublin 10.

Course: Computer Games and Interactive Entertainment Development (FETAC level 5 Award in Information Technology)

Duration: 1 Year

Course Strengths:
3D, Audio and C++ programming.

Course Weaknesses:
The course is short and provides only a foundation in computer games design.

More information: http://applications.bcfe.ie/course-DLO-Computer_Games_And_Interactive_Entertainment_Developement.html

Contact: Main Office: 01 626 9421 or info@bcfe.cdvec.ie

Bsc In Computing With Computer Games Development, Lyit

The B.Sc. is a three year taught programme in computing, which focuses on core computing skills plus topics applicable to the computer games programming/development industry. Its aim is to provide students who participate in it with the range of both theoretical and practical skills required for them to participate fully in a strong and vibrant computing industry with a particular emphasis on computer games development.

In designing this course we have ensured that there is also a strong emphasis on game design, media content and teamwork. In addition graduates from this course will be able to do a planned one-year add-on Honours BSc in Computer Games Development.

Minimum Academic Entry Requirements

Grade D3 or higher in at least five ordinary level subjects at Leaving Certificate, including Mathematics and either Irish or English, or an equivalent qualification.

Are there follow-up Programmes Available?
Progression is available to a one year Level 8 Honours Bachelor Degree in Computer Games Development internally at LYIT.

On completion of this programme graduates may go on to study for their Honours Degree at other ITs and Universities in Ireland and abroad. Progression internationally to second cycle (i.e. ‘Bologna Masters’) degree programmes.

For further information please see the college web site at http://www.lyit.ie/courses/computing/ly707/ or email thomas.dowling@lyit.ie

Thomas Dowling,
Head of Department of Computing,
Letterkenny Institute of Technology
Telephone: (074) 918 6304

Btec Diploma In It With Interactive Game Dev., Ballymoney (Nrc)

The production of games requires a unique set of skills, which covers disciplines in design, media, the visual arts, audio, story development and programming. In 2004 the Northern Regional College developed the first nationally approved Level 3 Course in Games Development.

EDEXCEL in association with the Northern Regional College and the UK’s largest game publisher Eidos have developed the course content, assessment and delivery strategies to meet the needs of this evolving and exciting Industry.

The Games Development course team work closely with Eidos and all of their development studios (such as Crystal Dynamics, Pivotal and Beautiful Games Studio) to ensure unit structure and content are relevant, industry specific and match the requirements of SkillSet (the Sector Skills Council for audio visual industries).

Eidos exclusively endorse the College’s course structure and delivery methods, and provide resource materials for student learning. This industrial link ensures students experience enriched training and opportunities to meet Games Industry professionals during guest lectures from Eidos personnel.

Course Location: Ballymoney. Northern Ireland.

Duration
1 year, Full-time

Awarding Body
Edexcel/Eidos

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have at least 4 GCSEs at Grade C or above or other relevant qualifications. A general interest in all aspects of Games and evidence of creativity is essential eg. Story Writing, Photography, Drawing, Digital Graphics or Model making.

In circumstances where there are more applications for the course than there are places available, the College reserves the right to ask for higher grades.

Contact
David Brockbank
david.brockbank@nrc.ac.uk

For more details see http://www.nrc.ac.uk/course_details.asp?facultyid=2&courseid=1215

Igda Scholarships

Some Irish students have got these in previous years and said they were great so get applying!

Aphra

****************************

The 2013 IGDA Scholarships Program is now accepting applications for the Game Developers Conference. The program is open to all students and recent graduates in fields relating to game development.

Applications should be submitted by January 11th 2013.

Please see
http://www.igda.org/scholars/2013-info/how-to-apply/ for further
information.

The IGDA Scholarships are awarded to the best and brightest students and provide access to the conference, individual mentorship from members of industry, opportunities to meet and talk to senior figures as well as the chance to visit some of the local studios in the areas the conferences are held in, so that students can get a feel for what it truly means to be a part of our industry.

You can learn more about the program, it’s history and find out how to apply on our newly revamped ready-for-2013 website:
http://igda.org/scholars/ .

Game Audio Event

The Digital Hub, in association with Games Music Ireland, would like to invite you to attend a presentation by Chanel Summers on The Importance of Great Audio in Modern Game Design.

For more on Chanel see http://www.linkedin.com/pub/chanel-summers/41/b36/a57

Chanel will enunciate on why game audio is important, what it lends to a game and what makes a great game audio design.

She will examine these questions as well as look at the various audio technologies that are enabling (and will enable) game creators to process, mix, and control sound for aesthetic effect and to push audio – and games themselves — forward in an emotionally impactful way. Topics to be covered include:

· Why is audio important?

· Audio & perception

· The state of game audio

· The use of game audio

· How to excel with audio

· Current and emerging audio technologies

· Example games that feature great audio design

The presentation will be live streamed with access through the Digital Hub website. Log on details will be posted on the site closer to the date.

Venue: 10 – 13 Thomas St., Dublin 8

Date: Wednesday, 5th December, 2012

Time: 11.15 – 12.30 (please be in attendance at 11.15 sharp).

Please RSVP to Breandán Goss at the Digital Hub if you are interested in attending in person at info@thedigitalhub.com

t: 00 353 (0) 1 480 6200 (ext. 6230)
m:00 353 (86) 827 6706

Enterprise Development Manager
Digital Hub Development Agency
Digital Exchange, Crane Street, The Digital Hub, Dublin 8, Ireland.

The Games Industry In Ireland 2012

It is three years since Dr. Aphra Kerr’s and Dr. Anthony Cawley’s “The Games Industry in Ireland 2009”. Their survey estimated that there were 1,469 employed by 21 companies and noted that there had been a rapid growth in community support jobs in foreign owned companies. This new 2012 survey by Jamie McCormick identified 91% jobs growth since 2009 with over 2800 employed across 80 companies by October 2012. It also identified significant growth in the game development sector of activity in Ireland. A summary of the report is available below, but the full report is available from the author.

 

Methodology

The Irish Computer Games Survey 2012 was initiated in March 2012. A follow up survey to identify changes in the industry was conducted in October 2012. While not all the questions in the two surveys were identical, the same core questions were asked giving consistent results across the timeframe.

The survey was processed using Polldaddy and drew on direct responses, trusted industry sources, and bare-minimum estimates, (i.e. 1) for staff of identified companies who did not directly participate. It was promoted through the GameDevelopers.ie community, industry events, industry contacts, state agencies and internationally through GamesIndustry.biz.

The survey excludes several companies that work on games industry contracts, but who do not primarily derive their revenue from the games industry e.g those hosting customer contact centres for a games company. Gambling companies are also excluded. Recently acquired Irish companies are defined as ‘indigenous international’.

Findings of the March 2012 survey

The March 2012 survey estimated that there were at least 3,344 people working in the industry in Ireland in February 2012 in at least 75 companies. Of these indigenous companies (61) and indigenous international companies (3) employed 872. Foreign owned companies (14) employed almost 2472 staff.

Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the location and distribution of the games industry around Ireland. While Dublin still dominates in terms of number of companies, Munster also has considerable numbers employed in the industry.

 

When companies were asked to indicate the type of company they worked for the following answers were given. These answers are further combined to evaluate the number of companies in each market sector.

 

Table 2 gives an overview of the types of positions advised by direct respondents of the survey.

Development Roles

Publishing Roles

Game Operation Roles

        Office Roles     

Animator Business Development Community-Manager Administration
Game-Designer Distribution Customer-Support Finance
Graphic-Artist Localisation Games-Master HR
Illustrator Marketing Producers Management
Level-Designer PR
Programmer Product-Managers

eLearning Roles

Intern Roles

Project-Manager QA Education Liaison Part-Time Interns
R&D Sales Full-Time Interns
Software-Engineer Testing
Sound-Designer
Sound-Engineer Systems & Technology Roles
System-Architect Cloud-Engineer
Tools Network-Support
UI Server-Operations
Web-Developer System-Engineers
Web-Planner
Writer

 

When we asked what platforms the companies were developing for almost 20 were working on IOS. The next most popular platforms were browser and PC with ten each. Significantly only two companies were working on games for the main consoles, Xbox and Playstation respectively.

Findings of the October 2012 Survey

 

A follow-up survey was completed in October 2012. During this survey, further information was attained from 27 companies.

It was found that one indigenous international company closed in the six month period between these reports. Two international companies removed their investment in the Irish market. A third international company announced redundancies which were completed during this timeframe. Between these, it is estimated that 590 jobs were lost.

Eleven companies responded to both surveys. Among these, four developers lost twenty-one staff, one had no perceptible change in staffing, and six of the developers employed ten additional staff between them. This produces a further net employment loss of 11 staff. It should be noted that most of these losses were in part-time, contractor or intern positions.

Nevertheless, a total of twelve new companies were identified in the October survey. Nine of which are comprised of one developer in Co. Down, seven additional developers in Dublin, and one more developer operating in both counties Dublin and Meath. An Industry Services team was the tenth with the remaining two operating as media outlets. Between these a total of 59 additional jobs were identified. The majority of these were formed in the last six months.

The figures from the October update show a net change reduction in employment of 542 job losses. This reduces the total estimated in the March figures to 2802 jobs. During the same period the number of companies increased from 75 to 83.

Just as we were completing the second survey a further 300 new jobs were announced by an international company, and 100 by an indigenous company. These are not included in these figures and hopefully will be capture in a future survey.

We also found in the follow up survey that five companies expanded the number of platforms they are releasing content on – four Android, two PC, one Xbox, one iOS, one Mac and one Linux games are being worked on in the six months between the two reports.

The following figures summaries the key findings over time.

Notes: It should be noted though that one international company and nine indigenous companies included in the 2012 report were also active in the Irish market at the time of the 2009 report. These include companies occupying the retail, sales, marketing, media and PR services sectors. The more macroscopic remit of this report allows them to be now included.

 

Conclusions

The survey highlights some important changes that are happening within the Irish Games Industry.

  1. The report shows a large increase in the number of developers within Ireland, most specifically in the Leinster region. Since 2009 there has been a 292% growth in the number of game developers.
  2. In terms of jobs growth, the industry has grown 91% in the three years since 2009 to an estimated total of 2802 workers.
  3. This survey indicates that iOS, mobile and web platforms are what indigenous developers are targetting. Few Irish companies develop for platforms like Facebook or consoles.
  4. There is a significant difference between employment numbers of companies who were pre-release on their first game, or only had one product currently published, against those developers who have progressed to having three or more games published on the market.
  5. There is a mismatch between the publishers and developers that operate in Ireland. The platforms that the international publishers located in Ireland work on versus those that are being developed on in Ireland are different. This means that local developers still need to make contact with international publishers located abroad.
  6. Few indigenous developers have got to the stage of internationalising their products through localisation into languages other than English. This may be an opportunity for export growth and sales, and leverage the skills currently available in Ireland among the publishers that exist in Ireland today.
  7. A critical mass of companies now exist in Dublin, but while the regional figures between Leinster and Munster may look similar on the surface, Munster and Connacht are heavily reliant on a small number of international companies for the majority of these jobs.

 

Recommendations

The international competitive landscape is going through a period of maturation as new business models shake out the games industry. The survivors of this should be well placed to deal with a future of reduced barriers to entry, reduced capital requirements and shorter development cycles enabling revenues to be generated sooner. Based on the figures from this survey we offer the following as recommendations for consideration by key stakeholders.

  1. Continue to make it easier for developers with viable products to get access to funding, mentoring and space to get their products made.
  2. Grow a number of developers, as a group, and aim that at least one will produce a hit game and cross-subsidise the rest – i.e. the hip hop business model.
  3. With the emergence of web, apps, and micro-transactions, there is an opportunity for Ireland to become an “IFSC for Virtual Currencies”, with a growing number of companies worldwide utilising micro-transactions or free-to-play business models. A micro-tax on the sale of virtual goods would give an incentive to the large number of Asian, American and European companies now utilising this business model for their games to establish in Ireland, channelling these revenues and jobs through Ireland.
  4. Aligning college courses with the current games industry, not only in development, but also in publishing and post-release services into the mid-term (5 years or so).
  5. Develop post-graduate or further education courses for incumbent senior management looking to formalise skills in areas such as Quality Assurance, Customer Services, Games Marketing and PR, Games Masters (inc Community Management) and other non-development skills that exist in Ireland today.
  6. Build on ten years of GameDevelopers.ie and Games Fleadh, both celebrating their tenth anniversary in 2013.
  7. Identify areas where skills gaps continue to exist, causing developers to leave Ireland, and focus on developing expertise in these areas.
  8. Attract back ex-pats with AAA credentials and get studios up and running with core “lead” talent, and then recruit in graduates to fill out other roles. A project to identify Irish people working in the international games industry is underway as a follow-on project to this report at http://tinyurl.com/irishexpatgamessurvey2012
  9. Continue to build a register of games companies operating in Ireland to track changes in the future. Companies that missed the October survey can still participate at http://tinyurl.com/irishgamessurveyoct12.

Published in Dublin, Ireland on Friday 16th November 2012 at Digital Skills Academy, The Digital Hub, Dublin 8, GAME: State of Play Exhibition at the Science Gallery, Dublin 2 and online at www.GameDevelopers.ie

Author Bio & Contact Details

Jamie McCormick is from Dublin, and has worked in the Irish Computer Games Industry since the late 90’s. A graduate of DIT, he has worked across retail, middleware, gaming centres, development and publishing companies in the Irish games industry, including with the Japanese-owned, Dublin based GALA Networks Europe, a publisher of free to play browser and client games across Europe through www.gPotato.eu. He now runs his own company Advanced Marcomm in Dublin. See http://advancedmarcomm.com/ 

The PDF of the full report is available at https://gamedevelopers.ie/features/TheGamesIndustryinIreland2012.pdf

Industry Survey Launched

As part of Dublin Games Week, “The Games Industry in Ireland 2012 survey”, an independent report by Jamie McCormick, was published today for the GameDevelopers.ie community and interested parties at DigitalSkillsAcademy.com, The Digital Hub, Dublin 8 after previews at the GAME: The Future of Play on Thursday 15th November at ScienceGallery.com, Trinity College.

The report gives a conservative estimate of the size, scale, distribution and make-up of digital gaming companies operating across the island of Ireland, as well as an estimation of the size of the Irish consumer games market as a distinct wedge of the broader UK market, of which it is part.

The current feature here on gd.ie presents a summary of the report and you can access the full report from there too.

The report breaks down the industry across four main categories: core development, industry services, retail and consumer focused services, and publishing services. It was conducted through two surveys in March and October 2012. It outlines regional jobs numbers, county company numbers, the split between indigenous and international companies, and the types of jobs currently available among people working in the Irish Digital Gaming Industry.

The survey found that as of October 2012, at least 2802 people work across 83 games companies on the island of Ireland (Republic and Northern Ireland), with jobs up 91%, game developers up 292%, and overall company numbers quadrupling since the 2009 report on the industry by Dr. Aphra Kerr (NUI Maynooth) and Dr. Anthony Cawley (UL).

These figures factor in known recent losses to the games industry, but do not include recent job announcements made in November.

The report also identifies twelve different games platforms being developed for, with iOS in first place, followed by browser games and PC games in second place.

The report values the Irish consumer market between 2001 and 2011 at over €2 billion, and the 2011 market value of over €211 million and measures it at least 7% of the overall UK market.

Published as a piece of independent research freely available to the public from Friday afternoon at GameDevelopers.ie, it is offered to industry and state agencies as a benchmark, against which future growth in the entire Irish Digital Gaming Industry can be measured.

Jamie McCormick works professionally as Marketing Systems Manager at free-to-play publisher gPotato.eu since 2008, and has worked for over a decade in the Irish Games Industry across Gamesworld, Demonware, Xbox Live Gaming Centre and Jolt Online gaming.

The report is released as part of Dublin Games Week, incorporating the launch of the GAME: The Future of Play, a free exhibition running in at ScienceGallery.com, Trinity College from 16/11/12 – 20/01/13, GameDevelopers.ie workshops taking place at DigitalSkillsAcademy.com on 16th November and DublinGameCraft.com, taking place on Saturday 17th November at Engine Yard, Barrow Street.

As a follow up we are seeking industry help from the expatriate Irish and Northern Irish game development community who have scattered around the world to “#icheckedingd.ie” after doing http://tinyurl.com/irishexpatgamessurvey2012 so we can see what skills gaps still remain before they’ll come home to enable AAA development to become a reality in Ireland.

Happy reading and well done to Jamie and all involved.

Survey Results Update

There are several events taking place on Friday 16th November we’d like to inform you about.

1. The results of the Irish Computer Games Survey will be launched at the Digital Skills Academy, Digital Hub, Dublin 8 at 9.30am on Friday 16th November. If you would like to attend the launch, please get in touch with jamiemc or aphra via the PM on the forums, or email jamie.mccormick@gmail.com

2. A series of workshops are scheduled to be organised for the Friday afternoon from 12pm at the same location. Information on these is available at http://www.gamedevelopers.ie/forums/viewtopic.php?t=6909 and you can reserve your free place at http://www.amiando.com/gdienov12workshop

3. There is an organised tour scheduled for the GAME: State of Play exhibition at the Science Gallery, Trinity College at 7pm.

4. There is a shindig organised for across the road in the Lombard pub from 8pm.

5. Also, Dublin GameCraft is running on Saturday 17th, you can get more information at www.dublingamecraft.com

Finally, for all of those of you who aren’t in Ireland any more, as a follow up to the survey we are running an expat survey to find out why you left Ireland. We would really appreciate if as many expats as possible who are members of GD.ie could fill in the survey, and spread the word to colleagues who you know. The link for this survey is http://tinyurl.com/irishexpatgamessurvey2012

New Webelevate Prog

This should be of interest to some of the companies on gd.ie

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WebElevate, a leading digital technology and game development programme, is currently inviting game development companies to partner with it’s WebElevate Industry Partner Programme, to develop web, mobile and social games for free.

Partner companies will be provided with a multidisciplinary team (based at Digital Skills Academy, Dublin) who will work on developing projects set by industry partners across a host of areas for web, social and mobile game development, including; game development and design projects, marketing or localisation of existing games, game prototype development or game testing and QA.

Interested companies will be joining the ranks of BT Ireland, Digiweb, Telefonica Ireland, Oracle, Pigsback.com, Gill & MacMillan and many more companies who have successfully partnered with the programme to date. Delivered by Digital Skills Academy with Dublin Institute of Technology as the awarding body, WebElevate retrains graduate jobseekers for employment in areas including online and mobile game development, mobile application development, digital marketing, content development and digital project management.

Paul Dunne, CEO of Digital Skills Academy said “Whether companies need support on the R&D of a new product, the development of a prototype, or a fully delivered online and mobile game, the WebElevate programme provides them with a great opportunity to tap into our resources and talent pool. Digital Skills Academy can provide companies with the resources of multidisciplinary teams of emerging digital media professionals, providing up to 2,000 man hours to work on their digital innovation under the guidance of industry experts.”

Companies interested in partnering with the programme are invited to attend an Information Event at 8am on Wednesday, 21st November 2012 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Golden Lane, Dublin 8.

RSVP online at www.digitalskillsacademy.com/invite

The next Industry Partner Programme will commence in December 2012 and projects will be fully delivered by September 2013.

State Of Play

State of Play takes place this year on Friday the 30th of November in the Dublin Institute of Technology building on Aungier Street from 18.00-21.00.

The ‘state of play’ is a chance for new and experienced developers to network with each other, demonstrate and showcase their work to their peers and get a sense of whats happening in the industry.

17:00 – 21:00 DEMO LEVEL
For those who have a game or game idea you want to showcase
Have you a game you want to test out on gamers? Then apply for this category (places available but limited to first come first served)

18:00 – 19:00 LEVEL 1
For new games or game companies
Have you recently released a game or do you have a game that is close to being finished? Are you a new entrant to the Indie Game scene then here is your chance to tell everyone about it. We can give you 5mins to talk to the community about it.
(12 places available but a selection process exists)

19:00 – 19:45 – LEVELING UP (Invite only)
Words of wisdom from some of our most successful indie developers

PRESS PAUSE

20:00 – 20:30 SIDE QUESTS- (Invite Only)
Different perspectives on the games industry

20:30 – 21:00 BOSS LEVEL – keynote address
We’re really excited about this as the guys from MONOGAME are flying in to tell us their story

Options to demonstrate, present or merely attend exist but you need to sign up fast.

See http://stateofplay.ie/