Charles Caton

Charles Caton

About

My Journey into Game Design

My passion for game design began at the age of eleven when I created my first video game, Mythical Hero, for the STEM Fuse GOT Game national competition. The game was a rudimentary “boomer shooter” set in the fascinating world of Greek mythology, and it earned me second place in the competition. That early success confirmed my love for game development, combining creativity, technology, and storytelling into one powerful medium.

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A few years later, in seventh grade, I became a youth consultant for iThrive Games Foundation, an organization dedicated to using games to promote youth mental health. In this role, I helped ensure the games were not only educational but also fun. It was a pivotal experience, teaching me how games can influence people in profound ways. Through iThrive, I realized the full potential of games as both a creative outlet and a means to make a positive impact.

Why Game Design?

From that point forward, I knew that game design was the career I wanted to pursue. Game development appeals to me for three main reasons:

Artistic Expression

I love creating worlds, characters, and stories that players can explore and interact with.

Technology & Coding

My background in computers allows me to dive deep into the technical side of game development, especially programming.

Problem Solving

Game development is full of challenges, and I thrive on finding creative solutions to them, whether it's through coding, design, or gameplay mechanics.

Education & Skills

Originally from Austin, Texas, I am now in my final year at the University of Wisconsin, majoring in Data Science with certificates in Computer Science and Game Design. My degree path is broad, with many potential career directions, but game design remains my focus. It allows me to blend my knowledge in programming with my passion for creating engaging, thoughtful, and entertaining experiences.
I’m currently honing my skills in Unreal Engine 5, focusing on combat design, and working on two major projects:

Skills & Tools

Game Engines

Unity (Primary engine for all my current projects), Unreal Engine 5 (In progress)

Programming Languages

C++ (Primary), Python, C#, and various others

Game Design Theory

Certified through the Game Design program at the University of Wisconsin

VR Development

Currently working on immersive VR experiences

Combat & Narrative Design

Developing systems and mechanics that enhance player engagement

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