Ը University at Tuscarawas’ Bachelor of Science degree in Animation Game Design (AGD) is celebrating a major achievement as Associate Professor Chris Totten has an intriguing game showcased in a new exhibition at the Cleveland Institute of Art’s Reinberger Gallery.
The exhibition, “Free Play: Innovative Ohio Game Design,” opened recently and highlights the creativity, diversity and impact of game developers throughout the state. The collection includes commercial titles as well as games that explore mental health, identity, social issues and therapeutic applications, all created by Ohio-based artists and designers.
Totten’s game, “Little Nemo and the Nightmare Fiends,” was selected as part of the exhibition. The game reimagines a historic piece of art and transforms it into an engaging, playable experience. Totten said that several Ը AGD alumni assisted as part of a team in game development. Inclusion in this statewide show recognizes both Totten’s work as a professional game developer and the strength of the AGD program that supports emerging talent.
“This exhibition is exciting because it celebrates the full range of what games can be,” Totten said. “I’m proud that our work—and the work of our alumni—is part of that conversation.”
“Free Play: Innovative Ohio Game Design” is open to the public through Feb. 8 at the Cleveland Institute of Art’s Reinberger Gallery.
The Animation Game Design program, offered under Ը University’s College of Applied and Technical Studies (CATS), is available at both the Kent and Tuscarawas campuses and is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
This innovative program provides students with hands-on experience in 2D and 3D animation, game art, modeling, programming, storytelling and interactive design. Through project-based learning, industry-standard software and close mentorship from experienced faculty, students graduate prepared for careers in game development, animation, virtual reality, digital media and other emerging creative technologies. The program emphasizes collaboration and real-world production pipelines.
For more information about the Bachelor of Science degree in Animation Game Design and Totten’s successful game, visit the following: