Get to know Andy Campbell…
Meet Andy
Games/XR Designer/Programmer, Artist/Writer, and Digital Director
What I do…
“I create immersive stories across all kinds of digital platforms from PC and mobile games to Virtual and Augmented Reality experiences. I love making atmospheric environments and engaging stories often about real-world issues such as mental health, social injustice, and climate change. I work as the Digital Director of arts organisation One to One Development Trust and I’m also the Founder and Co-Director of immersive Storytelling studio Dreaming Methods.”
Growing up I wanted to become…
“Either a pilot or a video game designer. 🙂 I grew up during the time of early home computers and classic (now retro!) video games and have always wanted to make my own. Outside of school (well, actually, sometimes at school!) I used to obsessively draw level designs and characters in sketch books. Then when I got into my teens, I started writing stories too and wanted to become a famous novelist.”
The thing that surprised me most about my career…
“I never really thought I could get a job working in the arts. I thought jobs were more like working in banks or shops or becoming a tradesperson like a plumber. After leaving school I went to work in a warehouse on night shifts but couldn’t shake my obsession with video games and writing. I taught myself programming, designed scores of games, and wrote hundreds of short stories. What shocked me is that I realised if I put in enough passion and effort, and actively sought out opportunities, I could make a living out of doing both.”
The best advice anyone ever gave me…
“Stay true to your vision. Be self-motivated and find a passion for learning. Be resourceful. There are so many ways to learn new skills outside of what might be considered more traditional education.”
