University of Advancing Technology's Official Technology Blog

The “2025 State of the Game Industry” report offers a compelling snapshot of a field that’s both flourishing and facing challenges. While the industry has experienced significant layoffs, it’s also seeing growth in areas like PC development, improved accessibility features, and a rise in diverse voices—including women, non-binary, and LGBTQ+ creators. According to the data (see image above), 32% of game developers now identify as women or non-binary, while 24% identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. These shifting demographics signal a more inclusive future for both players and developers.

Despite ongoing layoffs, game design, programming/engineering, and production remain the most common career paths in the industry. The report highlights that studios and publishers are restructuring teams, with many developers noting the importance of agile project management and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The report also reveals that PC remains the dominant platform for developers (at 80%), followed by popular consoles and mobile. Interestingly, emerging platforms like VR/AR and subscription services (e.g., Xbox Game Pass) continue to gain traction, opening new avenues for content creation and monetization strategies.

In response to these trends, the University of Advancing Technology (UAT) continually updates its curriculum to ensure that our Game Studies degrees align with industry realities. Here’s a sneak peek at some of our evolving courses:

• GAM200: Critical Game Studies
  Dive into the cultural, social, and historical contexts of gaming, learning how audience expectations and market shifts shape the design process.

• GAM218: Game Scripting for Designers
  Acquire hands-on scripting skills to bring game mechanics and prototypes to life.

• GAM310: Level Design
  Build immersive, engaging environments, honing the skills needed to meet the industry’s growing demand for robust, player-focused experiences.

• GAM352: Game Systems Design
  Delve into the nuts and bolts of game systems, including economy balancing and systems thinking—essential for any modern developer.

• GAM395: Monetization Design and Strategies
  Explore various monetization models and strategies, from free-to-play to subscription services, all while keeping player experience at the forefront.

• GAM418: Deployment Strategies and Project Constraints
  Learn how to manage production pipelines, optimize for specific platforms, and navigate real-world constraints like budgets and timelines.

In the following video, Professor Matthew Marquit takes a deep dive into our comprehensive Game Studies programs—covering everything from Game Design, Game Art and Animation, and Game Programming at the undergraduate level, to our graduate degree in Game Production and Management. Each path equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive industry.

Why UAT?

1. Real-World Experience: Collaborate in team-based, project-oriented classes that simulate professional studio environments.
2. Cutting-Edge Curriculum: Stay ahead of the curve with courses designed around current and emerging trends.
3. Industry-Relevant Skills: Learn to master design, programming, and production—just as the “2025 State of the Game Industry” report emphasizes.
4. Inclusive Culture: Join a diverse community that reflects the industry’s broader push toward inclusivity and representation.

Whether you’re aiming to be a game designer, programmer, or producer, UAT’s Game Studies programs equip you with the skills and mindset to thrive in a field where change is the only constant. From understanding the latest technologies and trends to honing the soft skills that help you lead teams, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact.

Ready to Level Up Your Career?
Explore our Game Studies degrees and see how UAT can help you become a part of this dynamic, evolving industry.