[Instructor Spotlight] Gee Sharma: Designing Experiences That Players Feel

Meet Gee: A Life Immersed In Games

Gaming wasn’t just a hobby for Gee—it was part of the air she breathed growing up.

“I grew up in a family where gaming was everywhere. Even if I had wanted to escape it, I couldn't have.”

That deep-rooted connection led her to the world of systems design, where she thrives on building complex gameplay mechanics that support multiple play styles, encourage replayability, and create meaningful player choice. Her love for emergent gameplay comes through in both her projects and her teaching in our Game Design Bootcamp.

From Studio Floors to Classroom Doors

Gee’s transition into education was a natural evolution. She began by mentoring students, giving talks at local schools, and eventually co-leading a business that taught children how to code. Being an active contributor to Vancouver’s game development scene has always been a personal mission—one she now passes on to her students.

“Being able to connect with students and support them in their development journey has been incredibly rewarding. Watching someone grow and gain confidence, that's powerful.”

In the classroom, she recreates the feel of a collaborative game studio, using a blend of discussions, video essays, game design frameworks, and interactive collaboration tools. This approach ensures students not only absorb theory but also apply it in dynamic, team-based ways.

No Gatekeeping, Just Game Making

Gee is a firm believer in dismantling barriers to entry in game design. Her teaching philosophy for our Game Design Bootcamp is built on one key idea: if you decide to start, you’re already a game designer.

“There is no gatekeeping. The day you choose to learn game development is the day you become a developer.”

This belief shapes how she empowers students—from encouraging them to dive into game jams, to organizing studio tours and networking events that give aspiring designers hands-on exposure to the industry. For Gee, building confidence and community is just as important as mastering design tools.

A passion for designing and plants

When she’s not building immersive player experiences or mentoring students, Gee tends to her ever-growing plant collection, bakes, works out, reads, and—of course—games. These passions ground her and fuel her creativity both inside and outside the classroom.

Why Learn from Gee?

Gee’s experience at major studios gives her students an authentic look into the realities of game design today. But it’s her approachability, empathy, and relentless drive to empower that set her apart. She helps students take their first steps with clarity and confidence—and then walks with them as they grow.

Her advice for new designers?

“Work on something. Join a game jam. Build a passion project. Showing your skills through a functional product is one of the best things you can do.”

Start Your Game Design Journey

Whether you’re brand-new to design or ready to level up your skills, Gee brings the knowledge, industry perspective, and heart to help you get there. Learn from someone who lives the work every day—and is committed to helping you thrive. You can connect with her on LinkedIn or you can join our Game Design Bootcamp.