The National Film and Television School enhances its games program by introducing new courses in animation and independent development

Image credit: National Film and Television School

The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is enhancing its video game curriculum with the introduction of two new educational paths: a Master of Arts in Animation for Film and Games and a certificate program in Indie Games Development. The MA in Animation builds on the school's respected history in animation, with a focus on equipping the new wave of creative technologists. In contrast, the Indie Games Development certificate caters to individuals passionate about launching their own game ventures, covering topics such as game design, technical aspects, as well as marketing and distribution.

André van Rooijen, head of Game Design and Development at NFTS, highlighted the collaboration among MFA students in Game Design & Development with other departments like screenwriting, VFX, composing, and sound design to craft unique character-driven games. He emphasized the school's interdisciplinary approach, which is a significant feature of NFTS. By broadening their digital courses, they aim to foster a dynamic ecosystem, encouraging students to collaborate on projects, offering game students bespoke content, and allowing animation and other specialists to apply their skills in practical production scenarios.

The expansion of NFTS's facilities at Beaconsfield Studios is set for 2026 and will include sophisticated computer labs, collaborative spaces, virtual production resources, and accommodations designed to be accessible to disabled students.

Emmanouil Agianniotakis, an NFTS graduate and the lead designer at nDream's Studio Elevation, reflected on the value of his education at NFTS, particularly the diversity within the gaming courses. He remarked on the broad variety of backgrounds and disciplines represented, describing the school as a melting pot of fascinating and distinctive ideas. Agianniotakis noted that while game design can be learned through free resources like YouTube, an education at NFTS offers essential resources and exposure to various disciplines such as composers, producers, VFX artists, and actors, which are hard to find outside such an institution.