Being a game designer has many aspects to it. Some areas of game design only require having an artistic talent. Other areas are going to require programming skills. When it comes to how much do you need to be a game designer, the only answer is it depends on what area of the field you are going in to. Once this has been decided, then the courses that are going to be needed can be decided.
Anyone who wants to be a game designer should have some basic algebra knowledge. Some game creators are going to want to do all the work on the game from design to programming. They want to have full control over it and do not want to pass it on to a programmer who may not keep with the theme of the game.
They feel that there are going to be changes made if they do not program the game themselves. These people are going to work on a game for a long time as they are not only going to have to create the graphics, but they are going to program the game. Courses in graphic design or a fine arts degree can help with the design aspect of the process.
For the programming aspect, more math is going to be needed. Programming has to do with variables and these mathematical variables are algebraic in nature. This means that there in order to be a programmer who designs their own games they are going to need to have a great knowledge of algebra.
For those who just want to create the games in a 3D program, algebra is going to be important as most of these programs are going to involve math as well. While this math is not essential, it can mean the difference in knowing all the ins and outs of the program and simply flying by the seat of the pants. Those who take these algebra classes are going to have a better chance at getting game designer job with a good company.
The bottom line is that there is no need to have a math degree or to take advanced calculus to be a game designer. A good grasp of algebra is going to be a plus no matter which area of the field is chosen. Those who choose not to get this math skill may find that they are losing out jobs to those who have them.
Most courses of study in the game design field are going to have math classes that are going to need to be passed in order to get the degree or certification. Whether or not the degree or certification is in programming or the design aspect of the field, some math is going to be needed. This math is only at the algebraic level and does not require anything higher than that. Having these skills in math is going to mean that a company may hire a person who has them before they hire someone who does not.
