2:29 PM 24th July 2024
College Students Reach Final Of BAFTA Game Designing Competition
Finlay Ross and Sophie Hogg
The finals, streamed live at the end of June, showcased their outstanding talent and creativity in game design.
Finlay Ross and Sophie Hogg, who are returning for their second year of Level 3 Games Development in September, were named finalists in the YGD Game Concept Award, 15-18 category, for their innovative game concept titled "The Getaway."
BAFTA Young Game Designers is a renowned initiative aimed at nurturing young talent aged 10-18 in the field of game development. Winners were judged on the design and suitability of their games for their chosen platforms, encouraging a new generation of game developers and making the industry more accessible to emerging talent. Participants compete for two esteemed awards: the YGD Game Concept Award and the YGD Game Making Award, each category divided into age groups.
"The Getaway" is a momentum-based parkour bank heist getaway game. Players assume the role of a daring bank robber navigating through cities, suburbs, and seas by jumping and swinging between obstacles. The game challenges players to maintain momentum, with each level culminating in a thrilling escape that demands precise timing and skill. As it was entered in the concept category, all the work was sketched and annotated on paper, without the need for computer software.
Sophie said: “I didn’t expect to hear anything back at all, so it was a real surprise when we got the email through to say we were finalists. It feels amazing to be recognised, and we can’t wait to go down to London and meet all the other finalists.”
Finlay added: "It's a big deal to get recognised by such a big corporation, especially being from the North East.”
Digital Technologies Curriculum Leader James McKenna said: “I’m super proud of Sophie and Finn’s achievement. They deserve to be in the spotlight, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.”
Sophie and Finlay, along with the other finalists, received a bundle of game-related goodies generously provided by YGD partners. In addition to these exciting items, they will have access to an array of exclusive masterclasses designed to deepen their understanding and skills in game design and development. They will also benefit from personalised digital mentorship and careers advice, delivered by seasoned industry experts who can offer valuable insights and guidance for their future careers.
Both Finlay and Sophie plan on entering the competition again next year. They have also been asked to be course ambassadors, speaking to new learners about entering the competition and sharing their experiences.