(FREE) Behind the Screen: Game Design Lab and Sector Insights @ MUKF |

Aimed at young people 16-30 who are classified as NEET. Dive into an introduction and behind the scenes of the games industry.
About this Event

Behind the Screen: Game Design Lab and Sector Insights @ MUKF

Are you between 16 - 30 and currently our of education, training or employment. Do you like video games?
Get ready to dive behind the scenes at our Game Design Lab! Join us for an exciting in-person event where you'll explore the creative process, talk about all things games industry, and hear about sector insights from industry. Whether you're a gamer or a future designer, this is your chance to see what really goes on behind the screen - including play testing Mindera's latest released game. Don't miss out on this awesome opportunity to connect and learn!

Day 1: History, Audiences & The Industry Landscape
Explore the evolution of gaming and learn how professional design choices target specific player needs.

• 09:45 - 10:00 | Arrive and get settled
• 10:00 | Ice Breaker / Tour & The Evolution of Gaming: From arcade classics to the modern indie revolution—see how tech shapes creative opportunities.
• 11:00 | The Design Lab: Deconstruct genres, mechanics, and player personas. Discover how your unique skills translate into roles like Narrative Writer, UI/UX Researcher, or Producer.
• 12:30 | Lunch on us! : ~1 Hour with time to connect and network
• 13:30 | Mindera Spotlight & Playtest : Hear from industry professionals and participate in a live playtest to analyse real-world project mechanics.
• 15:00 | Reflection: Connect your insights to the broader industry landscape.

Day 2: Studio Challenge, Prototyping & Pitching

Form your own "Indie Studio" and experience the full lifecycle of a game concept.

• 10:00 | Studio Launch: Form your team, define your core loop, and set your goals.
• 10:30 | Paper Prototyping: Bring your game to life using analog tools. Map out your world, character, and level design.
• 11:30 | Rotational Playtesting: Peer-review other teams’ prototypes and gather constructive feedback.
• 12:30 | Lunch on us! : ~1 Hour with time to connect and network
• 13:30 | Pitch Showcase: Build your 4-slide pitch deck and present your concept to Mindera staff for industry-standard feedback.
• 15:00 | Pathways & Next Steps: Learn how to translate your workshop achievements onto your CV and discover free tools to keep building your skills.