So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer (So You Want To Be A...)

"Video games are awesome, right? But do you know who makes these games so much fun to play? It's the video game designers. Linda Soules brings young readers a book that delves into the world of video games with So You Want to Be a Video Game Designer. By being a video game designer, you can bring entire worlds to life with your own set of rules. This book explains how video game designers play the roles of architects, storytellers, psychologists, and scientists. Additionally, you will learn about in-game mechanics, the tools of the trade for a designer, the best aspects of being a designer, as well as its hardest aspects. You will also observe the daily life of a video game designer.

This is one of the best books for any preteen or young teenager who is a video game aficionado. It will help you learn how some of your favorite video games are made and by whom. Linda Soules has a knack for delving into the technical aspects of some unique career choices for professionals. So You Want to Be a Video Game Designer is another great example of that. It is short, to the point, and very informative. Young readers will learn to develop an interest in the fundamentals of being a video game designer. On top of it, the illustrations are colorful and capture the essence of the narrative to perfection. It's an enlightening book that sheds light on the world of video game creators. Highly recommended."

"So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer is a solid starter book for kids who love video games and have started wondering what it would be like to actually make them. It does a nice job showing that game design isn't just sitting around playing games all day. The book breaks down the real work behind the scenes, from building mechanics and stories to working with artists, engineers, writers, and sound designers. For a kid who is curious about creating games, it gives a much clearer picture of what the job actually involves.

One of the best things about this children's book is that it stays positive and inspiring without pretending the career is easy. It talks about the fun, creative parts of game design, but it also covers the harder parts, like problem-solving, teamwork, revision, and all the trial and error that happens before a game is finished. I especially like that it includes practical details, like what a day in the life of a game designer might look like. That kind of information helps kids understand the career in a real way instead of just imagining the cool parts.

The book also works well for a pretty wide age range. Even though it is aimed at ages 10-14, younger kids can still enjoy the illustrations and big ideas, especially if a parent reads it with them. Older kids and even adults can get something out of it too, because it explains the industry, the skills involved, and the history behind game design in an easy-to-follow way.

The artwork in this book is wonderful and detailed on every page. Each scene has a consistent look, feel, and color style that makes the whole book flow together beautifully. I loved all the small details tucked into the illustrations, like little toys on the desks of the video game developers, because they make the world feel fun. The characters are expressive, and the colorful scenes really pop, making the world of video game design feel exciting, creative, and almost like a fantasy.

This is a great pick for any kid who talks about wanting to make video games someday. It gives them encouragement, but also gives them a realistic look at what it takes. I like that it offers ideas for how kids can start preparing now, whether that means learning new skills, paying closer attention to how games work, or just thinking more creatively. It's educational, interesting, and inspiring, and it may help a young reader decide whether game design is something they really want to pursue."

"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."

"In So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer, author Linda Soules invites middle-grade readers into the creative, highly collaborative world behind the screens of their favorite digital adventures.

Moving past the common childhood misconception that game design is simply playing games all day, Soules unpacks the actual craft: asking foundational 'What if?' questions, writing design documents, building prototypes, and tuning fine mechanics until an interactive experience feels completely natural. From the high-energy environment of a game studio to the subtle art of playtesting and sound design, the book offers a transparent, eye-opening tour of what it truly takes to build virtual worlds from scratch.

What works beautifully in this book is how it treats game design as an accessible blend of logic, storytelling, and empathy. Soules’s approach shows children that great design isn't about having a single genius idea, but about understanding human psychology – anticipating how players feel, how they learn without explicit tutorials, and why they choose to keep playing. The book demystifies complex concepts like systems thinking and math-driven mechanics (such as probability and loot drop balancing) by linking them directly to player experience. This gives the guide real weight and makes it approachable for young readers who might be curious about how their own favorite games function under the hood.

The accompanying visual elements are a strong companion to the narrative. The detailed scenes – depicting vibrant development studios, focused playtest sessions, and playful representations of iconic mechanics – feel alive and colorful, keeping the layout inviting for young eyes. There are moments where you pause on the art just to take in the details: cozy desk setups with multiple monitors, sound designers smashing watermelons to create impact audio, and creative teams brainstorming around whiteboards. It creates an inspiring, welcoming mood that reinforces the book's core message: game design is an art form rooted in community and human connection.

So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer is neither too short nor too busy. It strikes a good balance for independent readers or for family discussion, pacing its insights smoothly through structured sections like 'A Day in the Life,' 'The Hardest Parts of the Job,' and 'Things You Might Not Expect To Need.' The inclusion of a clear glossary, fun historical trivia (like how Pac-Man and Tetris were created), and practical steps kids can take right now – such as designing paper board games or trying Scratch – ensures the book stays actionable rather than purely theoretical.

The idea of career guides for kids is not new, as many books explore modern technology professions. But what sets this apart is Soules's candor about iteration and failure; she emphasizes that early game versions are often disasters and that "cut content" is a normal, necessary part of the creative process. That gives the book authenticity and makes it more likely that kids will feel empowered when their own early projects or paper prototypes don't turn out perfectly on the first try.

Quill says: So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer is an encouraging, highly informative guide that reminds young readers that every game they love was built by curious minds who started just like them. With rich illustrations and an empowering message about the value of creativity and iteration, it’s a book young creators will want to return to again and again."

"Linda Soules’s So You Want To Be a Video Game Designer gives young readers a clear look at what it actually takes to invent the worlds they play in. It is a thoughtful career guide that treats curiosity as serious work.

This guide explains what a video game designer really does day to day, from writing design documents and tuning jump timing to sitting in playtest rooms and fixing what feels wrong. It covers studio life, tools like Unity and Unreal, prototyping, sound design, and the artists, programmers, and producers on the team. Children also get the best and hardest parts of the job, famous names like Miyamoto and Roberta Williams, a glossary, and prep ideas parents can try at home, from changing playground rules to building in Scratch.

Soules writes in a direct, conversational voice that never talks down to readers ages 8 to 14. The illustrations give children something vivid to linger over while older ones dig into designer profiles. This title belongs to her So You Want To Be a... series, and it fits that invitation to take a career seriously.

For families looking past screen time and into why games matter, this book is a solid pick. It leaves children asking better questions about games they love, and parents with something real to discuss."

"This is yet another fabulous book Linda Soules has written, and I think many children will agree, especially if they love everything about video gaming. Right from the first paragraph, Soules explains what a video game designer’s job specifications are and brings it to a level children can relate to without talking down to them. Instead, she explains each specification of the designer’s job and lets the readers know that if you would like to be a game designer, you won’t be playing games for fun all day. I loved the simple breakdown she supplies the readers regarding each nuance of this fascinating job.

As an adult, I learned a few things along the way myself. I never quite knew the full specifications a video game designer was responsible for until I read this detailed children’s career guide. The thing that I never realized was that video game designers must have a strong math and writing skill background. Also, I found the details quite astonishing that games have been used to train surgeons, help autistic children build social skills, and even have helped rehabilitate stroke patients.

The illustrations that were found in this informative guide were also provided by Linda Soules through the means of AI. She fully discloses that she worked meticulously in perfecting each illustration to fit each part of the story and she excelled at achieving her task. Each picture was just as interesting to look at as was the information she wrote in each portion of the story. They were colorful, eye-catching, and complemented the story overall.

Linda Soules is the award-winning author and creator of the So You Want To Be A…series. With over 190+ books in the series, children will have plenty of books to read that will supply them with the necessary information they need to eventually decide which career path they will take when they get older.

Overall, So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer is a book that will teach children the ins and outs of what it involves in being a video game designer. This guide has plenty of useful information, eye-catching illustrations that draw the reader further into the book, and helpful resources such as books to read, websites to explore, and even organizations they can become familiar with to help them decide if this career is the perfect fit for them. This is another great book by Ms. Soules!"

"I think these would be great to have available in libraries for teens as they really do give a lot of useful information!"

"It is so educational and informative. It gives children the best run down of what it takes to become a video game designer and exactly what they do and how it contributes to the world around them."

"I would definitely recommend this book to kids or adults who are interested in game development. The language used is not too complicated, so it's good for people with little to no experience."

"The author approaches it from a business perspective but also a creative perspective. There are so many things that go into video game design that my son learned... I think this made him appreciate the game developers overall and the complexity of how games are made from the ground up."

"A must-read for every aspiring game creator...As someone who grew up playing games, I found 'So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer' to be one of the most honest and illuminating guides for young people."

"It’s a brilliantly structured manual that respects the reader's intelligence and provides a clear roadmap for the next generation of creators."

"A fantastic book giving every detail of how a game designer works. I really like how this book gave other job options that are available to children that is inside the gaming industry. Very intuitive and explains every detail so a child can understand. No big words that are confusing which is great."

"Full of great information about video game designing. It includes a detailed overview of the role to learn if someone is truly interested in becoming a designer. It includes what is best, hardest, and surprising about the role as well as a day in the life. It also has great illustrations!"

"There is more there than I had originally thought. The few video games I have played and still play are more enjoyable now that I know all the work behind it.

"Very informative and age appropriate. First off, excellent illustrations throughout the book. I would say 10-14 is an accurate age range...Highly recommend for anyone who wants to get into the field of video game design."

"I liked that the author de-bunked the myth right away that it's all about 'playing' video games."

"Gives a lot of details on both what a Video Game Designer is, and isn't... tools of the trade, best and hardest parts of the job, what a day in the life would look like, and who you'll be working with."

"My kids loved this book! My oldest loved what it was about while my youngest loved the pictures in the book. They both are huge gamers and were interested in this!"

"If you have ever thought about wanting to become a video game designer this is the book you need to read."

"A great educational book for kids who may be interested in learning to program a game. I love that it has resources listed for kids to learn more, from books to websites. Highly recommend!"

"This is a fantastically written book about a potential career in game design. It goes through the good and the bad, describes the type of person that would excel, delivers on key concepts in project management such as working through iterations, and says it all in an age appropriate voice. The target audience is pre-teens to young teens and it absolutely hits the mark on being a sophisticated yet age demographically appropriate. As an adult with an interest in video games, I enjoyed learning about the creation process as well."

"It's definitely a MUST READ for me! Enjoyed it!"

"The wording is rather inspiring and positive even when talking about the not fun parts of the job. It goes over skills you would gain and why it's a field worthy of your time."

"Video game design is hard work!! I love this book because it tells you ALL the ins and outs of game design no matter how good or bad they are. The illustrations are amazing, and the book really held my kiddos attention."

"So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer is a fun and informative book that gives kids a great introduction to the world of video game design. It explains the creative process behind making games in a way that’s easy to understand and engaging for young readers. From storytelling and artwork to coding and testing, it shows how many different skills come together to create the games we love. A fantastic read for any child who dreams of designing their own video games one day!"

"This book is very informative in simple terms for children to understand. My son loves video games like his dad and wanted to know more. I was able to read it with him and I really learned a lot too! Who knew all the different people involved with making a single video game and all the work it takes to make them as fun and challenging as they are? Definitely recommend this one!"

"As someone who grew up wanting to design art for video games, this book was a must-read. I loved the images throughout the book and just like the other books in this series, it truly gives kids or any reader for that matter a better understanding of what it actually takes from the inside. Too often we think we know exactly what it’s like when we don’t. This book gives a whole new perspective on creativity and what it takes to build a video game from scratch. Truly a great experience and your kids will love it if they love video games!"

"Excellent book with insightful information to become a video game designer for kids. Phenomenal colorful graphics and fun facts to help."

"Enjoyed this book. I'm a teacher and my grade-level focuses on College and Career Readiness. Over the past few years, more and more students want to be a Video Game Designer. This book lays it all out for them, a day in the life as well as what they can do now to prepare."

"I’m always looking for books that teach something meaningful while keeping my child entertained long enough for me to finish a cup of coffee before it goes cold. So You Want To Be a Video Game Designer delivered beautifully. I loved the honesty about mistakes being part of the journey. The stories about famous game glitches turning into iconic features were especially great. It’s comforting to know that even legendary designers occasionally break things and then pretend it was intentional. Overall, this book is fun, inspiring, and surprisingly educational. It left me excited for young readers and only slightly jealous that I didn’t have something this cool when I was growing up."

"This book taught me so much about how video games are made. I didn’t know that real people test the games in an office before it ever goes public and that so many people go into developing the game. The fact that video games can help develop empathy and to rehabilitate stroke patients shows just how important this job can be."

"If your child wants to be a video game designer, the best way to help them is to channel their passion for playing video games into the creative process of making them. This book opens up a roadmap and introduction for logic, storytelling, art, and math. How to analyze what they play, build skills, practice narrative design, and embrace math. What parent doesn't want their child to move from social media to learning critical skills at home and experimenting with beginner-friendly creation tools? Transitioning a young gamer into an aspiring designer."

"My kids' dad has said he wants to be a video game designer/developer so now the kids are interested in how that comes to be. This book was directed towards kids to explain it and the kids love it. While I did not personally buy this for the kids, i am glad it was given to the kids to learn about this type of job. The artwork is beautiful and it shows both boys and girls, helping with the inclusion of girls into fields that may not be known to them. It also shares some great game designers and game design facts."

"Super informative, but in a way that older children can understand. My 9 year old thoroughly enjoyed delving into the details of becoming a video game designer! I am loving this whole series!!"

"I thought this was a great book for kids who are thinking about becoming a video game designer. It talked about what a video game designer actually does day-to-day (it's not just play video games!). I liked that it gave specific qualities that a good video designer has and also provided further readings and websites to look into for more information. A good starting point if your child is thinking about becoming a video game designer!"

"Linda's series are always a good educational but fun experience! Love the detail history being the video games and the people who created them along the way. Technology has come along way with help!"

"This is my 4th book in this series and I'm still enjoying them. The level of care and detail is apparent in the writing. It's the right amount of story telling and factual detail. I love each section, I especially like the 'who you work with' section outlining all the people around the main job. I really wish this series was around I was younger but the writing style is enjoyable at any age. And the art is also phenomenal!"

"So You Want to Be a Video Game Designer by Linda Soules is an introduction to the creative world of game development. Rather than focusing solely on playing games, the book reveals the imagination, problem-solving, collaboration, and persistence required to create them. Written in a conversational and accessible style, it explains how game designers build rules, mechanics, stories, and player experiences while constantly testing and improving their ideas. Young readers are invited to think critically about the games they love and discover how careers in design combine creativity, technology, storytelling, and psychology. The book is filled with fascinating examples, practical advice, and inspiring stories that make the profession feel both attainable and exciting.

The illustrations are vibrant, imaginative, and highly effective in bringing the world of video game design to life. The artwork captures the energy of game studios, creative workspaces, and fantastical game worlds while helping readers visualize concepts such as playtesting, game development tools, and collaborative design. The illustrations complement the text by making complex ideas approachable and reinforcing the sense of innovation and wonder that defines the field."

"My 13 yr old son and 12 yr old daughter read this book with me tonight. Both of my kids really enjoy gaming seeing how they are being raised by parent gamers. This book was very interesting for young creative minds. It inspired them to think of the possibilities their futures may hold. The book is easy to comprehend and I feel like even younger kids would enjoy this book if they had an interest in video games. The book goes into what it takes to be a video game designer and even how your first try may not be the final outcome. It shows them it takes trying and failing to succeed. 10 out of 10 recommend!"

"This is the perfect book for the aspiring video game designer in your life. It tells kids not only what it takes to be a video game designer but also includes facts as well as ideas on where to find more information. This is a wonderful conversation starter if you have a kid who is interested in this growing field!"

"I really enjoyed So You Want to Be a Video Game Designer. It's well written, easy to follow, and packed with useful information. It definitely goes beyond the basics, so it feels like you're getting a real look at what goes into video game design rather than just a simple introduction. The illustrations are fun and fit the content really well, which helps keep it engaging. I think this book is best for teens and older readers, since there's a lot of information and it might be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. Overall, I'd definitely recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about game design."

"Recently found this series for my classroom and wanted to add more. Boys love video games, so this was a must grab book! The illustrations are well done and I love that a wide variety of reading levels can access this book. I especially love the extra information at the end of the book and appreciate the way it is laid out and includes a wide variety of information."

"Wow, here I thought video game designers played games all day. Not the case! They program games, add sound, tweak the graphics, and put themselves in the end users shoes! Games may have started with Pac-Man, Tetris, and Mario, but boy have they evolved. This book includes a day in the life of a designer and famous video game designers, so cool!"

"Linda Soules planted a gem when writing this book for kids. The entire book is mid friendly from the illustrations on down. It's not one of those books that make your snore out loud and jump cause you scared yourself awake. Plain and simple, if this is something your child or a kid you know wants to do...point them in this book's direction."

"The graphics are amazing and beautiful! The author does an excellent job describing what it takes to be game designer and that it’s not a one person job. It also gets into the history of video games and gives suggestions on next steps and other resources for those kids that are really interested in this career path."

"Video game design takes open-mindedness, teamwork, IMAGINATION, creativity and determination, and focus. It's a frustrating but amazingly rewarding undertaking."

"Another great book by Linda Soules! Becoming a video game designer has more steps to it than I even knew. From the drawing stage all the way to the release, this industry is very popular now with all the different video games out. I don’t think I know a single person that doesn’t dabble in some sort of game in their free time. There is definitely job security there and kids these days look at being a video game designer as the coolest thing ever! I bought this book for my daughter and now she has a new goal!"

"As a parent, I'm always looking for books that inspire creativity while teaching something meaningful, and So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer was a pleasant surprise. Instead of simply telling kids that game design is a cool career, this book shows them what the job is really like and encourages them to start thinking creatively right away.

What I appreciated most was how approachable the book feels. It doesn't talk down to young readers or overwhelm them with technical jargon. Instead, it explains that creating a video game is a lot more than just playing one. Designers have to come up with ideas, solve problems, test their creations, and often start over many times before things work the way they imagined.

I especially liked how the author is honest about the challenges. Kids learn that successful games don't appear overnight and that mistakes are actually an important part of the process. The discussion about famous game features that started out as accidental glitches was fascinating and shows how creativity can come from unexpected places.

The real-life stories included throughout the book were another highlight. Reading about Shigeru Miyamoto finding inspiration in his childhood adventures and Roberta Williams building a groundbreaking career from a simple love of games helps make the industry feel accessible and human. These stories show young readers that great ideas can come from ordinary experiences.

The illustrations add a lot of energy to the book as well. The cover perfectly captures the feeling of imagination taking flight, with a young creator watching a fantasy world come alive from his own ideas. It's a wonderful reflection of the book's message that every game starts with creativity.

What I loved most is that the book encourages kids to think like designers right now. Whether it's changing the rules of a playground game, drawing maps of imaginary worlds, or brainstorming new ideas, it shows that game design begins with curiosity and imagination.

Overall, this is an engaging, inspiring, and easy-to-read book that would be a great choice for any child who loves video games, storytelling, art, or problem-solving. It left me feeling excited about the possibilities it could open up for young readers."

"This was a very informed and thorough breakdown of the career of a video game developer. It really informs you what the job is from a different perspective - in that it's not only making video games but also continually asking yourself what if? and then seeking to dissect that question and making it into a reality. The illustrations are absolutely stunning, with modern representation of gaming as well as the tools used to develop games. The book breaks down not only the job itself, but also the inner workings of a games studio and the different people who contribute to the final product. My favorite parts are the timeline that shows a day in this profession, as well a showcase of famous video game developers as well as some fun facts! This would be a great read for anyone interested in how video games are made!"

"So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer stands out because Linda Soules includes specific examples that make the gaming industry feel tangible, like her discussion about how something as simple as jump timing in a platform game can determine whether gameplay feels satisfying or frustrating to players. Moments like that help readers understand that game design is not just about creativity, but about carefully shaping the player’s experience through tiny details most gamers never notice.

The book also keeps things engaging with fun industry facts and behind-the-scenes insights that make the career path feel realistic instead of glamorized. It is a great introduction for anyone curious about how video games are actually designed and what skills are needed to succeed in the field."

"So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer is one of those nonfiction books that actually manages to feel exciting instead of like a lecture, and I found myself getting more into it than I expected. It doesn’t just explain what game designers do—it makes you start noticing design choices in games you’ve already played, like why certain levels feel satisfying or why some mechanics keep you hooked longer than others.

One part that really stood out to me was the explanation of how a single jump mechanic can take dozens of versions before it feels “right.” The book breaks down how designers constantly test and adjust tiny details—timing, spacing, gravity feel—until the player doesn’t even think about it anymore. That idea made me rethink games I’ve played before, especially platformers where movement feels effortless but is actually extremely calculated.

I also liked the sections that described the teamwork behind games. It highlights how designers don’t work alone—they rely on artists, programmers, writers, and sound designers all constantly adjusting their work together. There was a moment in the book describing how music changes during gameplay to signal tension or reward, and it made me realize how much I usually don’t notice even though it affects how I feel while playing.

Another strong part was the way it talks about iteration and failure. Instead of presenting game design as something instantly creative, it shows how much of it is trial, error, and rebuilding. That honestly made it feel more realistic and less intimidating, because even “bad” ideas are treated as part of the process rather than mistakes.

The book also does a good job balancing inspiration with reality. It talks about the excitement of building worlds, but also the patience and problem-solving required when ideas don’t work the first time. I appreciated that it didn’t oversell the job—it made it clear that passion matters, but so does discipline and technical thinking.

Overall, this was an engaging and surprisingly insightful introduction to game design. It’s written in a way that’s easy to understand but still respects the reader’s curiosity, and it definitely made me think differently about how video games are made and how much invisible work goes into every detail."

"I found it truly fascinating being taken behind the scenes to discover just how much genius, imagination, and skill goes into video game development. It is a laborious, vivid, and complicated process. Much more so than the average person might think. And video games aren't simply about mindless enjoyment. They help teach problem solving skills, and help so many people in various ways, including autistic individuals, and stroke patients."

"Another great book from the So You Want To Be A...series. These are book are so informative but easy to read and understand. She does a really good job on explaining what these jobs entail. There are a lot of duties that go along with being a video game designer that do not involve sitting around playing video games like a lot of kids think. This book gives them a great introduction to what a video game designer actually does."

"This is the type of career I wish was talked about on Career Day in school. I love the information and the practical tips to get started!"

"This book really gets detailed with this career in description and the entire process. If one aligns with the motivations described then they need look no further for what to expect from the world of video game design. From conception to launch - this book uses real world examples and beautiful artwork to demonstrate what to expect to really get a design realized.

This is a good read for those giving a realistic expectation to all the work involved and an emphasis on a foundational passion to keep the drive going to launch.

There are also some very useful references and advice for proper training and further research."

"My youngest son has really gotten into video game design lately so we read this together. It gave him some really good ideas and answered some questions he's been asking me that I couldn't answer."

"This is a fun and inspiring book for kids interested in gaming careers. It is also good for anyone to learn what gamers actually do. I love how detailed it is without being too long or boring.

It tells about the reality of the work that isn't anything like playing games all day, but more like taking weeks to decide on how many tenths of a second a jump should be. The book has a list of words you need to know in order to understand game designer terminology.

It tells about famous video game designers like Shigeru Miyamoto who came up with the idea for Mario. It also has a bunch of fun facts that make the book more interesting."

"We love this series! My 8-year-old loves to game and would love to design video games. This book really showed that there is work involved and it's not all just "fun and games!" Explaining things simply enough for him to understand, yet in depth enough for him to have all the details, is what really makes this series perfect for his age. The book highlights the best parts of the job, as well as, the hardest parts of the job. The book also lists the most important qualities a video game designer requires and things you might not expect to really help kids understand what this job entails. Listing some fun facts and what you can do to prepare right now is an added bonus. Again, love this series!"

"As someone who loves playing video games, I never really thought about the work behind it. I don’t think I’d personally ever be interested in doing it myself, however, it was really fun to learn about in a very easy manner to follow."

"Great quick guide that explores the basics of game development and design. After reading my daughter decided she didn't want to design the games, she wanted to do the artwork for the games. So many details go into game designing from creating and brainstorming to actual game play and testing."

"The Game Designer book gave me a better understanding of what it really takes to create a video game. Before reading this, I thought game design was mostly about coding, but I learned it’s a creative team effort involving artists, designers, programmers, and playtesters working together. I also found it interesting that playtesting is such an important part of the process because it helps developers see what players enjoy and what needs improvement. The illustrations made it easy to picture what a real game studio looks like, and the explanations were simple and engaging. Overall, this book taught me that designing games requires creativity, teamwork, patience, and constant testing to create the best experience for players."

"Opening Linda Soules’s So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer, I was immediately charmed by the imaginative cover illustration featuring a young creator at his desk, watching drawings of a tiny hero and a glowing purple dragon literally spring to life from his sketchbook. Rather than jumping straight into complex coding jargon, the book serves as an engaging, highly accessible roadmap for young dreamers wanting to understand how games go from a simple idea on paper to interactive digital worlds.

One specific detail that really grounds the book's practical advice is the dedicated section on prototyping using simple paper grid maps and index cards to test game rules before touching a computer. This hands-on approach makes game design feel completely achievable for beginners. Additionally, the author's helpful breakdown of balancing player feedback loops provides concrete, actionable insight into what keeps players engaged. The warm, supportive tone makes it feel like you are receiving mentorship from an experienced guide who genuinely wants to foster creativity. It is a wonderful, inspiring read that gives aspiring creators both the spark and the practical framework to start building their own virtual worlds."

"I think every kid of this generation has thought that a job in video games would be awesome. This book clarifies that the career of video game designer is not about playing the games but catering an experience for the player. There is a strong collaborative spirit to it that's laid out in excellent detail. This will absolutely prepare a young person of the expectations and knowledge they will need to prepare to be a success in this industry."

"book introduces young readers to video game design in a way that is easy to understand without making the information feel overwhelming. It shows that creating a video game involves more than just playing games; it takes creativity, planning, problem-solving, storytelling, and technology. I also liked how the book encourages kids to use their imagination and think about turning their own ideas into something they can create. This would be a great book for children who enjoy gaming, computers, art, or designing their own characters and stories. It may even inspire a young reader to consider video game design as a future career. I found this book educational, encouraging, and enjoyable to read."

"This is a short book loaded with all info related to designing video games. This book is a great read for all kids who love video games and are considering making their passion a reality. This book shows all the places you may work, what you actually do, best aspects of the job and even the hard parts. This book is both interesting and informative."

"My 14 year old son and I read this together. It’s quite a lot of information so we spent a few days reading small sections at a time (He has ADHD) but he loved the information because it really interested him. There is a lot of good info in the book and we both learned a lot about video game designers. Our fav part was the fun facts."

"What a Video Game Designer Actually Does. I liked this section because it made the job sound more realistic. It helped show that being a game designer is about more than just coming up with cool game ideas. There’s a lot of planning, problem-solving, and thinking about how the player will actually experience the game.

Tools of the Trade. This was another part I found interesting because it gave me a better idea of what someone would actually use to make games. I liked seeing the practical side of the career and the different tools and skills that can go into turning an idea into an actual game."

"If you've got a kid who spends more time wondering how their favorite games work than playing them, this book is for them. Linda Soules's So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer gives young readers an honest, engaging look at what actually goes into creating video games. I read this book with my daughter and she loved it!

Aimed at roughly ages 10–14, the book explains the design process—from asking 'what if?' and creating a design document to prototyping, testing, and refining gameplay. It does a great job of showing that game design isn't just about playing games; it's a blend of creativity, technology, storytelling, psychology, and teamwork.

The book introduces the many different roles involved in game development. It also offers practical ideas for exploring game design now, rather than simply telling readers to wait until college.

I also enjoyed the colorful illustrations. They were very engaging and well done. The overall structure of the book made it easy to read and understand for kids who might be interested in exploring this career path.

Overall, this is a well-researched, engaging, and encouraging introduction to game design. Highly recommended for young readers, parents, teachers, and librarians—and especially for any kid who has ever said, 'I want to make video games when I grow up.'"

"One of my favorite aspects is how accessible the information is without talking down to its audience. Soules explains everything from game mechanics and storytelling to programming, sound, art, psychology, and user experience in a way that makes a complicated industry feel approachable. She also emphasizes that creating games involves plenty of experimentation, revision, failure, and teamwork—which gives the career a much more realistic portrayal."

"If you know a kid who plays games non-stop and is starting to ask how they’re actually made, So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer by Linda Soules is a great read. It cuts right through the classic kid myth that designing games just means sitting around playing them all day. Like the other books in her massive So You Want To Be A... career series, it targets tweens and young teens (ages 10–14). The prose is top-tier because Soules genuinely respects kids' intelligence. It never talks down to them, using an engaging, conversational style that handles technical concepts flawlessly."

"While written for kids, it is a book with good information in it. Instead of pretending the job is just playing games all day, the book honestly explains that making a game is hard work full of storytelling, art, and computer logic. It introduces young readers to the entire process, from thinking up rules and sketching level maps to testing out rough early versions. One of the best lessons in the book is that making mistakes is a normal part of creating something new. The author shows how early versions of games are usually buggy or frustrating, and designers must test them again and again to make them fun. The book also connects video games to regular school subjects, showing kids how important math, good writing, and teamwork are if they want to build digital worlds. This not only tells them about what it would be like to create video games, but it is a good lesson for school. Overall, this is an inspiring and practical book for children ages 8 to 14. It includes colorful artwork, fun historical facts about classics like Pac-Man and Tetris, which their parents or grandparents would remember."

"Bright pictures kept my sons attention throughout the book. He loves that it broke down everything you need to know. He is now planning his own video game."

"My granddaughter (10) and I read this together. She wants to be a game designer, so I thought it would be a good book for her to read. Having a couple of game making websites is phenomenal for her to dip her toes in and explore more about the process. She is excited about learning more!! Excellent book for expanding a child's mind!!"

"Linda Soules shows kids what it's really like to make video games. With cool pictures and simple tips, she proves that anyone with big ideas can learn to build their own games!"

"This book doesn’t just explain game design; it makes you feel the joy of it. Soules describes designers as 'part architect, part storyteller, part psychologist, and part mad scientist,' and that image alone makes you want to grab a notebook and start sketching out worlds.

What makes the book so engaging is how it mixes wonder with honesty. Soules reminds us that 'your first version will be terrible.'

Instead of feeling discouraged, it feels freeing. It’s permission to experiment, to fail, and to keep trying until something magical appears. That’s exactly the mindset you’d want if you’re building a playful app for a toddler: start simple, watch how they interact, and adjust until it sparks delight.

The book is full of vivid examples, from the famous 'rocket jump' bug in Quake to the way sound effects (like squishing a watermelon into a microphone) can completely change how a game feels. These quirky details make the craft feel alive and accessible, even for beginners.

Most importantly, she frames game design as an act of empathy. It’s about imagining how someone else will experience the world you’ve built. That’s the heart of the book, and it’s what makes it so inspiring for parents, educators, or anyone who wants to create meaningful play."

"I bought this book expecting a simple career guide for my kid, but it completely blew me away with how deeply it respects young readers while giving a genuinely authentic look into game design. The way it balances the exciting parts like creating entire worlds and inventing rules with the gritty reality of endless iteration, cut content, and taking playtest feedback is just brilliant. It doesn't talk down to kids at all, offering incredible insights into everything from math and probability to sound design techniques like smashing watermelons for audio effects. My child was absolutely hooked by the engaging breakdown of a typical day in a designer's life, the fun facts about classics like Mario and Pac-Man, and the hands-on steps they can take right now on paper or with free tools like Scratch. The illustrations are vibrant and expressive on every page, making it an absolute joy to read together and sparking endless conversations about creativity, logic, and what goes into the games we play every day. It is easily one of the most inspiring, thoughtful, and well-crafted books in our home library, and I cannot recommend it enough for any curious child or aspiring creator!"

"Great book for anyone (kids or adults) interested in creating video games. A lot of information on what the job really is."

"As a mother of a child who loves all things video game related, this book was great. I love how it ties into something he loves as a possible career choice later in life. I like how each section is short, sweet and straight to the point. It tells about how many different jobs are required to design a game. And I especially enjoy the list that tells what personality traits benefit you if you want to be a video game designer when you grow up"

"This book is a great way for kids to understand what a video game designer is. Each section goes into great detail of all of the different aspects that go into creating a game. The pages about the stories of famous video game designers are inspiring and overall I feel the book could encourage some video game designers of the future!"

"The book goes far beyond simply “making games” and explores storytelling, art, programming, sound, problem-solving, teamwork, and understanding what makes a game enjoyable.

I loved the fun facts and the practical ideas for kids to start designing their own games right now. The illustrations are also fantastic and make the book really engaging."

"I LOVE THIS SERIES OF BOOKS! This is great for exposing children to different careers and giving realistic expectations on what skills and level of education is expected. If your kid loved video games this is a good find to expose them to making it a career."

"I love this book! The illustrations are very nice, and the author does an amazing job of explaining everything there is to know about this occupation while still being very easy to understand. There are sections for Fun Facts about popular video games, information about several popular video game designers, a glossary so you know all the video game industry jargon, as well as a list of websites and books to explore if you want to learn more."

"This book is so good explaining what a video designer does. Makes it simple for children to understand, lovely illustrations. My nephew who is 7 would love this book as he wants to do something like this when he is older. It explains all the different job titles that goes to make one game. Lots of different people make a game and this was explained in easy language and beautiful drawings."