Building Tomorrow's Game Architects
We started energythinx in 2018 with a simple belief: the best game worlds come from understanding both the creative vision and the technical craft behind great level design.
Based in New Taipei City, we've spent years watching the gaming industry evolve. What strikes us most is how much the field has grown beyond just artistic talent – today's level designers need to think like architects, engineers, and storytellers all at once.
That realization shaped everything we do. We're not just teaching software skills or design theory in isolation. Instead, we focus on the intersection where creativity meets technical precision.
Our Vision
We see a future where Taiwan becomes a recognized hub for innovative game level design. Our students don't just learn to use tools – they develop the strategic thinking that makes memorable gaming experiences possible.
Every graduate should feel confident stepping into professional studios, whether that's locally or anywhere in the world.
What Drives Us
Game development moves fast. Studios need people who can adapt, problem-solve, and bring fresh perspectives to established workflows.
We bridge that gap by combining solid technical foundations with real-world project experience. Our approach prepares students for the actual challenges they'll face in professional environments.
The People Behind the Programs
Our team brings together industry experience and genuine passion for education. We've worked in studios, shipped games, and learned from plenty of mistakes along the way.
Astrid Kjellberg
Astrid spent eight years at Nordic studios before joining us in 2020. She's particularly good at breaking down complex spatial design concepts into manageable steps.
Her approach focuses on understanding player psychology and how environmental storytelling actually works in practice.
Real Experience, Real Teaching
What makes our instruction different? We've all been where our students are heading. The transition from learning to professional work can be rough if you're not prepared for studio realities.
That's why our curriculum includes practical elements like version control workflows, collaborative design processes, and handling client feedback – the stuff that textbooks often skip.
- Advanced 3D modeling and optimization techniques
- Level scripting and interactive system design
- Performance analysis and technical troubleshooting
- Professional portfolio development and presentation
- Industry-standard collaboration and documentation methods
We also stay current with emerging tools and techniques. The industry changes quickly, and we make sure our students are ready for what's actually being used in studios today.
Viktor Novotny
Viktor handles our advanced technical training modules. He joined us from a Prague-based studio where he specialized in optimization and performance engineering.
His classes focus on the technical constraints that shape great level design – understanding limitations often sparks the most creative solutions.
Foundation Year
Started with weekend workshops and evening classes. We had twelve students and one shared workstation. The energy was incredible – everyone hungry to learn and experiment with 3D design concepts.
Program Expansion
Moved to our current space and launched comprehensive six-month programs. Added advanced modules and started building relationships with local game studios for internship placements.
Industry Recognition
Our graduates started landing positions at established studios. We refined our curriculum based on industry feedback and introduced specialized tracks for different career paths in level design.
What We Stand For
These aren't just nice-sounding principles. They guide how we structure programs, interact with students, and approach the constantly evolving field of game development education.
Practical First
Theory matters, but hands-on experience teaches you how things actually work. Every concept we cover gets tested in real projects with real constraints and deadlines.
Honest Expectations
Game development is challenging work that requires dedication and continuous learning. We prepare students for both the rewards and the realities of professional creative careers.
Staying Current
Tools and techniques evolve rapidly. We continuously update our curriculum and maintain connections with working professionals to ensure relevant, up-to-date instruction.
Individual Growth
Everyone brings different strengths and learns differently. We adapt our teaching methods to help each student develop their unique creative voice and technical skills.
Long-term Thinking
Success in creative fields comes from building sustainable skills and professional relationships. We focus on developing capabilities that will serve students throughout their careers.
Creative Problem Solving
The best level designs come from understanding problems deeply and exploring multiple solutions. We encourage experimentation and learning from both successes and failures.