Designers perform the following tasks on a regular basis :

• Design, develop and deliver systems and high quality code using programming languages
• Perform code reviews to ensure code quality
• Quality test coding in a systematic and thorough way to find problems or bugs and record precisely where the problem was discovered
• Debug programs and solve complex technical problems that occur within the game’s production
• Work closely with designers, artists and other staff involved in the design process in order to create a quality product to schedule
• Develop designs or initial concept designs for games including game play
• Generate game scripts and storyboards
• Create the visual aspects of the game at the concept stage
• Use 2D or 3D modelling and animation software, such as Maya, at the production stage
• Produce the audio features of the game, such as character voices, music and sound effects

The following Skills and Aptitudes are required to be successful in this field :

• Technical ability, in particular familiarisation with a range of programming languages and/or software packages
• Team working skills to liaise with other developers and other teams involved in making a game
• A creative and innovative approach to solving complex technical problems
• Flexibility to meet deadlines and client requirements
• Attention to detail and good communication skills
• A forward-thinking approach to work and willingness to keep learning and developing your skills
• Enthusiasm for and knowledge of the gaming industry
• Reasonable fluency in a range of 2D and 3D graphics and animation packages, such as 3D Studio Max, NUKE or Maya

Following recent trends were observed in the realm of Digital Gaming :

• Augmented Reality : Despite the steep drop-off, Pokemon Go showed us how complete strangers, even those not into Pokemon or gaming, could come together over an augmented reality game. It wasn’t uncommon at its height to see packs of teens roaming the streets, populating a Pokestop, and dropping lure modules like it was nobody’s business. Games like Pokemon Go have just put a start to the AR facilitated gaming era.
• Virtual Reality : Taking it a step further, we move from augmented reality to virtual reality. Last year saw virtual reality return with a vengeance with Oculus Rift, Steam, etc. The use of VR is expected to rise over the years.
• Inclusivity : Video games are a great way to reach audiences of all kinds, especially young people. Featuring diversity and inclusivity in games exposes kids (and everyone) to the beauty of being different. Diversity will become more prevalent in video games as sectors of all entertainment industries crawl towards equality.
• Mobile Gaming : Nintendo is entering the mobile gaming market. We are soon going to see the other big gaming legends bringing their products to the handhelds as the demand moves from desktops to mobiles & tabs and later to smart watches.

Fresher can expect to earn anything between Rs.5-6.5 lakh p.a.
Experienced professionals can earn in the range of Rs. 8-10 lakh p.a

Following are the best Companies / Studios in India for this Discipline :

• 2Pi Interactive
• 99Games
• Creatiosoft Solutions Pvt Ltd
• Electronic Arts Games
• Game Show Network (BitRhymes)
• Griptonite Games India Pvt Ltd.
• GSN Games
• The Walt Disney Company (India)
• Apar Games
• CreatioSoft
• Dhruva Interactive
• DigiKhel
• Dumadu Games
• GamersFirst

Links to Follow :

• https://extra-credits.net/
• https://www.gamasutra.com/
• https://www.designer-notes.com/
• https://gamedesignadvance.com/
• https://gamedesignaspect.blogspot.co.uk/
• https://gamedesigntheory.blogspot.co.uk/
• https://critical-gaming.com/gamedesign101/
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vw76jqF1nkI