We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Game Development for Modern Platforms

Brian Winn

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

Two deals to help you save

Save money when you learn. Here are two deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.

All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.

Valid until July 14

Coursera Plus Annual

Work toward what's next for your career with access to 10,000+ programs. Discover emerging skills and save.

Valid until August 30

Google AI App Builder

Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores cross-platform game development, a vital skill in the industry

Uses game engine Unity, which is widely used in the industry

Covers intermediate and advanced techniques, suitable for those with some game development experience

Develops a 2D platformer game, a common genre that provides a solid foundation for aspiring game developers

Requires comfort with keyboard/mouse, controller, and touch input methods, which is crucial for modern game development

Teaches considerations for screen size, screen resolution, and sound, essential for cross-platform game development

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Hands-on multi-platform 2d game dev

Learners say this course provides a solid foundation in Unity game development, specifically focusing on creating a 2D platformer project. The hands-on nature and practical coding exercises are frequently highlighted as positive aspects, helping students apply concepts directly. While the course covers the goal of multi-platform development, some learners find the depth of coverage for specific platforms could be improved, indicating a potential warning for those seeking deep platform-specific guides. A common point raised, particularly in older reviews, concerns potential outdated content due to Unity updates, though newer reviews occasionally mention efforts to refresh material. The course pacing is generally considered appropriate for those with some programming background, but beginners might find the later sections or the difficulty of assignments challenging.

Covers adapting games for different devices

"The idea of covering multiple platforms is great, but the actual depth for each is quite limited."

"While it touches on different platforms, I felt I needed more specific guidance for iOS and Android."

"It shows you the concepts of multi-platform, but be ready to do extra research for deployment details."

"Covers the concepts of adapting inputs and outputs, which is useful for multi-platform design."

Learn key game development concepts in Unity

"I learned the basics of Unity scripting, physics, and animation needed for 2D games."

"Good introduction to the Unity workflow and best practices for game creation."

"The course gave me a solid start using Unity for my own projects."

"Provides a good overview of core Unity features relevant to 2D development."

Develop skills through a complete game

"Building the 2D platformer from scratch was incredibly helpful and solidified my understanding."

"The hands-on coding and projects are the strongest part of the course for me."

"Working on a single, complete project really ties all the concepts together."

"I appreciated the practical, project-based approach; it made learning feel more concrete."

Pacing may be difficult for absolute beginners

"The course ramps up quickly, especially if you're new to both coding and game dev."

"Assignments required significant effort and troubleshooting beyond the lectures."

"Okay for intermediate learners, but beginners might struggle without prior programming experience."

"Assumes a certain level of programming knowledge going in, which wasn't clear upfront for me."

Some content may not reflect latest Unity versions

"Some lectures use older versions of Unity, which caused minor confusion when following along."

"Found that certain features discussed have changed or been deprecated in newer Unity builds."

"Wish the course material was more regularly updated to keep pace with Unity's releases."

"Needed to search online frequently to find current methods for some tasks shown."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Game Development for Modern Platforms with these activities:

Review Basic Java Programming Syntax

Show steps

Ensure that you are familiar with the foundational syntax and concepts of Java, including variables, data types, operators, and control structures.

Browse courses on Java Syntax

Show steps

Review tutorials and documentation on Java syntax.
Complete coding exercises and practice problems to reinforce your understanding.

Follow a Unity Game Development Tutorial Series

Show steps

Gain hands-on experience with Unity by following a comprehensive tutorial series that covers the core concepts and workflows of game development within Unity.

Browse courses on Unity Game Development

Show steps

Identify a reputable Unity tutorial series that aligns with your learning goals.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step, experimenting with the code and concepts presented.
Complete the exercises and challenges provided in the tutorials to test your understanding.

Attend a Unity Game Development Workshop

Show steps

Enhance your Unity skills and learn from experienced professionals by attending a workshop focused on game development within the Unity engine.

Browse courses on Unity Game Development

Show steps

Identify and register for a Unity game development workshop that aligns with your interests.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the learning activities.
Network with other game developers and industry professionals.

Two other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all five activities

Create a Simple 2D Game Prototype in Unity

Show steps

Apply your knowledge of Unity by creating your own 2D game prototype, which will provide practical experience in implementing game mechanics, level design, and player controls.

Browse courses on Unity Game Development

Show steps

Design the gameplay and mechanics of your 2D game.
Create the game assets, including sprites, textures, and audio.
Implement the game mechanics and player controls using Unity's scripting system.
Test and iterate on your game prototype to improve its functionality and gameplay.

Mentor Junior Game Developers

Show steps

Consolidate your knowledge and develop your communication skills by mentoring junior game developers, guiding them through their learning journey and providing support.

Browse courses on Mentoring

Show steps

Identify opportunities to mentor junior game developers through online forums, communities, or educational programs.
Provide guidance, feedback, and encouragement to your mentees.
Share your experiences and insights in game development to help your mentees grow.

Career center

Learners who complete Game Development for Modern Platforms will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Game Developer

A Game Developer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game development, including the basics of game design, programming, and art. Students will learn how to create games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game development industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Developer

Indie Game Developer

An Indie Game Developer is responsible for the design, development, and marketing of independent video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game development, with a focus on the skills needed to create and publish indie games. Students will learn how to create games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the indie game development industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Indie Game Developer

Game Programmer

A Game Programmer is responsible for the programming of video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game programming, including the basics of game physics, AI, and graphics. Students will learn how to create games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game programming industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Programmer

Game Designer

A Game Designer is responsible for the design and development of video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game design, including the basics of game mechanics, level design, and storytelling. Students will learn how to create games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game design industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Designer

Technical Game Designer

A Technical Game Designer is responsible for the design and implementation of game systems. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to technical game design, including the basics of game physics, AI, and graphics. Students will learn how to create games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the technical game design industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Game Designer

Game Artist

A Game Artist is responsible for the creation of art assets for video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game art, including the basics of 2D and 3D art, animation, and texture mapping. Students will learn how to create art assets for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game art industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Artist

Game Producer

A Game Producer is responsible for the overall production of video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game production, including the basics of project management, budgeting, and marketing. Students will learn how to produce games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game production industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Producer

Game Tester

A Game Tester is responsible for testing video games for bugs and other issues. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game testing, including the basics of test planning, execution, and reporting. Students will learn how to test games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game testing industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Tester

Game Writer

A Game Writer is responsible for the writing of scripts, dialogue, and other text for video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game writing, including the basics of story structure, character development, and world building. Students will learn how to write for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game writing industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Writer

Game Animator

A Game Animator is responsible for the creation of animations for video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game animation, including the basics of 2D and 3D animation, rigging, and motion capture. Students will learn how to create animations for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game animation industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Animator

Game Localization Manager

A Game Localization Manager is responsible for the localization of video games into different languages and cultures. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game localization, including the basics of translation, cultural adaptation, and testing. Students will learn how to localize games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game localization industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Localization Manager

Game Community Manager

A Game Community Manager is responsible for the management of online communities for video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game community management, including the basics of community building, engagement, and moderation. Students will learn how to manage communities for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game community management industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Community Manager

Game Marketing Manager

A Game Marketing Manager is responsible for the marketing of video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game marketing, including the basics of product marketing, public relations, and advertising. Students will learn how to market games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game marketing industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Marketing Manager

Game Sales Manager

A Game Sales Manager is responsible for the sales of video games. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game sales, including the basics of sales management, customer relationship management, and channel management. Students will learn how to sell games for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game sales industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Sales Manager

Game Executive

A Game Executive is responsible for the overall management of a video game company. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to game management, including the basics of strategic planning, financial management, and human resources management. Students will learn how to manage a game company for a variety of platforms, including mobile, PC, and console. This course is a great way to get started in the game management industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Executive

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Game Development for Modern Platforms.

A Choir Of Assassins

Save

Expands the course's reach by delving deeper into the technical intricacies of Unity, empowering learners to delve into advanced concepts and techniques.

A Choir Of Assassins (An Avuncular Detective Book 1)

Kindle Edition

Unity Cookbook

Save

Provides a practical and concise guide to Unity's core features and functionality, serving as a valuable quick reference tool during and after this course.

Unity Cookbook - Fifth Edition: Over 160 recipes to...

Paperback

Unity Cookbook: Over 160 recipes to craft your own...

Kindle Edition

Game Architecture and Design

Save

Adds more depth and breadth to the course material by providing a comprehensive overview of the inner workings of game engines, enhancing learners' technical understanding.

Game Architecture and Design: A New Edition

Paperback

Game Architecture and Design: Learn the Best...

Paperback

Learning 2D Game Development with Unity

Save

Complements the course by enabling learners to apply their classroom knowledge to practical, real-world 2D game development scenarios.

Learning 2D Game Development with Unity: A Hands-On...

Paperback

Unity Development Cookbook

Save

Although geared toward prior Unity users, this book can provide a great starting point for this course. Being comfortable with some Unity fundamentals can make learning the core concepts taught in this course that much easier.

Unity Game Development Cookbook: Essentials for...

Kindle Edition

Unity Development Cookbook: Real-Time Solutions...

Paperback