Making Deep Games
Discover the combined power of Metaphor & Game system thinking to gain clarity on complex issues, understand lived experiences from within, and become a 21st Century soul guide
Whether your goal is to make games that touch players deeply, or to understand yourself or others in new ways, the Deep Games design methodology can open new pathways for you.
Clarity
Deep Games revolve around evocative imagery: a metaphor that is coaxed from the unconscious mind and subsequently unpacked in a structured and systematic way. This approach brings great clarity to any topic you choose to explore.
Connection
The metaphors we use when we talk about our experiences tell us much about how we think and feel. Unpacking these metaphors together – e.g. as parent and child, or as therapist / coach and client – in the process of game design facilitates dialogue, understanding and connection in new and transformative ways.
Creativity
Deep Games go beyond the surface, to the bottom of experiences, conflicts, and complex issues. to understand complex issues deeply, and portray them in emotionally rich and evocative ways, creativity is not only in service of expression, but transformation.
Deep Game Design for Everyone
Harness the Power of Deep Game Design—For Everyone
You do not need to be a game designer, have any technical skills, or know anything about games, really, to be able to benefit from the Deep Game Design courses offered here. All content is highly accessible, as jargon-free as possible, and does not require any programming. All you need is curiosity and openness to explore.
Hi, my name is Doris C. Rusch and I’m a Professor of Game Design. I coined the term “Deep Games” when I was a post-doc at the MIT GAMBIT Game Lab, from 2007-2010. I wanted to make games that were about something. So, I developed an approach based on cognitive linguistics, psychology and systems thinking that puts metaphors at the center of the game design process.
After having taught a course on Deep Games for many years and in many different settings, Taylor and Francis reached out and asked if I wanted to write a book about it. So I did: Making Deep Games, Designing Games with Meaning and Purpose (Taylor and Francis 2016). This book has been used as a foundational text in game design courses all over the world, from Canada to the US, China, Italy, Brazil etc.
About Deep Games
Deep Game design lives from the insightful use of metaphors and understanding the complexity of systems – how things are interconnected and impact each other. The metaphor is the surface layer of the game. The real meaning, though, is beneath that surface.
Apart from my academic gig, I’m also a coach (long story, to be told another time, on another page), and have used the Deep Game design methodology in my coaching practice as an instrument of discovery, connection and personal transformation. I shared my experiences of doing so in my TEDx talk Why Game Designers are Better Lovers.
Why Choose Deep Games?
Taught by a Professor of Game Design with two decades of experience researching and creating Deep Games, our courses are accessible, self-paced, and designed for everyone—whether you’re an aspiring designer, a seasoned pro or someone who wants to use this methodology with others (e.g. parent, therapist, teacher, social worker, project lead, coach). More than ever do we need the ability to look beyond the surface, gain clarity on what governs our worldviews and belief systems, and build understanding and connection.
Certified Somatic Coach & Personal Trainer
Highlighting a range of professional certifications and licenses in somatic coaching and physical training, demonstrating credibility and expertise.
Holistic, Integrative Approach
Bringing together deep game design, somatic work, and physical training to foster personal and collective thriving.
Service-Oriented Mission
A core commitment to helping individuals and the planet thrive, guiding every aspect of work.
Tangible, Physical Experiences
Belief that physical experience shapes worldview and self-expression, using metaphors and training to foster alignment and aliveness.
Our Courses
Courses and modules for all experience levels—explore the Deep Games methodology, hands-on practice, and transformative co-creation.
Deep Games Foundations
An accessible introduction to the Deep Games approach—exploring what deep games are, why they matter, and how this method can spark creativity and personal growth.
Deep Games in Practice
Go beyond theory with hands-on, project-based learning. Apply the Deep Games approach through case studies and creative projects, submitting your work for personalized, asynchronous feedback.
Deep Games for Connection & Change
Learn how to use the Deep Game design methodology with others to build connection, understand their lived experiences, and collaboratively address their challenges to facilitate transformation.
★★★★★
“Creating my own deep game with this approach was a journey of self-discovery. I gained insights about myself that I never expected, and the process completely transformed how I view creativity.”
Alex S.
Student
Independent
Ready to Start Your Deep Game Journey?
Join a community of creative explorers and game designers. Enroll today and unlock your creative potential.
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Enroll in Deep Games or Book a Consultation
Take the next step in your creative journey. Join a course or connect with us for consulting—transform your approach to games, creativity, and connection.