See all glossary termsLevel design is the process of creating playable environments that the player will visit in a game. It involves planning and assembling beautiful maps, designing obstacles and rewards, and controlling the game's pace and progression.
In other words, level design sits at the intersection of art, story, and game design. It requires both solid creative and technical skills. The person in charge of level design is called a level designer.
On the artistic side, a level designer should understand the game's world and background, visual style, and story to create believable environments. Knowledge of color theory, composition, lighting, and sound design is essential to craft an immersive atmosphere. Level designers use space, scale, and perspective to guide players through the environment. Finally, they also control the pace, tension, and release of the game by placing obstacles, enemies, and rewards in a way that keeps players engaged or gives them a break.