Ok, I am a sophmore in high school. My whole life (about 16 years) I have wanted to be a game designer, creativity used to create something people like me would love and play like crazy. I have one question - I have no idea how to start. I am doing some basic 100x100 pixel models for a Java game now but I really want to know what I need to do (college especially) to become what so many of you already are. I do not know much about the industry right now and have not figured out what exactly I plan to do with building, but definately something creative. Any pointers?

I''m by no means an expert but i can give you some insight. As for where to start; since game designers are responsible in making the story of the game, etc... I would take some good English classes. Being able to write well is always a plus especially when you go to write the story of the game . As always, this site is an excellent resource for beginners. As for classes you need on game design i really don''t know; i would also like to know this as well.
Just find something and stick with it!

As a designer you might want to look into learning a little of everything. Now I''m no pro but this is what I''ve been told. A little of everything is:

Programming
Art (2d/3d)
Music
Writing
Do''s and Don''t of designing...

Programming I wouldn''t suggest learning it per say if you just want to design but know a little about it, know which languages are which and which are used generally in the industry.

Art you want to be able to sketch, even if it''s not very good. As far as 3D art you might want to look into learning about different model formats and into basics of terrain design, again not necessarily how to do it but information on the topic and the background behind it so your familiar with the "lingo" or jargon.

Music pretty easy, know what sounds good to you and what doesn''t. Maybe learn what instruments work well for what your trying to do I don''t really know here.

Writing, learn the in and outs of English get A''s in all of your classes. This is what your going to be doing a lot of you want to make sure you can get your ideas across clearly so not only you and your group can understand but publishers and consumers can understand you.

Do''s and don''ts of designing...well you want to pick up some books on game design, that''s probably a no brainer though. I can''t recommend any because I haven''t read any or remember any titles right now. Try checking out the For Beginners or Reference section of Game Dev.

Bleu Shift - www.bleushift.tk

I really recommend a career in Full Sail or DigiPen. They can get you to be a really nice game developer, designer, programmer.... Or maybe even a good modeller.