A state-of-the-art game design lab featuring industry-standard equipment has been opened at Keele University as part of a new Game Design course.

The lab features 16 top-of-the-range gaming PCs for students to learn on; all built to industry standard to prepare them for a career in the games industry.

The hardware and software have been specifically mapped to mirror the equipment used in AAA game studios, and designed to minimise heavy rendering and code compile times.

This improves the student experience by giving learners more time to actually study their area of game development and less time waiting for tasks to finish.

It also fully prepares them for placements and careers in industry, by familiarising themselves with the hardware and commonly used software before working in professional studios.

Dr David White, Senior Lecturer in Game Design, said: "I'm so pleased with the new games lab and I think students will be impressed too.

"It is important that students work in conditions which replicate those seen in industry – whether it is a large company, like Rockstar, or a small indie studio – the one constant is the focus on high-end hardware and the PC specs here are as good as they get.

"The lab space itself is perfectly suited for a comfortable working environment, whether students are working by themselves, or collaborating on a project. Being able to adjust the lighting will be great for tutorials, but also games jams and games tournaments."

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The lab features 16 top-of-the-range gaming PCs (image via Keele)

As well as the technology on offer, the lab has also been designed to create a range of different atmospheres and ambiences depending on the task it's being used for, with natural lighting, standard room lighting, and custom LEDs designed to create a range of different moods and experiences.

During learning and collaboration periods the room's natural lighting can be maximised to maintain alertness and focus, while for extracurricular activities like games jams and tournaments, the light and mood of the room can be changed to create a more relaxed environment.

The lab also features high-end, large-format displays which allow for real-time, studio-style critiques and other collaborative tasks.

Students can pitch designs and review code as a collective, just as it's done in industry, further preparing them for a career in professional games studios.

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