Game design program laptop recommendations
Computing in various forms is a central part of the Indiana University game design degree program. Experience has shown that students are more successful in the game design program when they have their own Windows laptop so they can work effectively in class and run all of the software we use in the program.
It is recommended, but not required, that students have their own laptop in their first year. This becomes necessary by their second year, or as they begin the more technical game design courses. Note that the game lab in Franklin Hall has multiple high-end computers and Cintiq art stations for student use. These are a great resource, but do not replace the need for those in the game design major to have their own portable computer capable of running game development tools (and games!).
We don’t require a particular computer brand; the specifications below are more important. However, IU has paired with Dell to provide a student discount and several recommended builds that may prove more economical, as shown here.