Meet Subramanian (Vishal) Venkatachalam | Level Design | Game Production | Mentor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Subramanian (Vishal) Venkatachalam and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Subramanian (Vishal), what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I never imagined myself following a creative career, but life has a way of surprising you! Believe it or not, I failed my first drawing class as a child, and that is a true tale. It’s safe to say I wasn’t exactly a prodigy in the arts as a kid. Instead, I spent many hours of my childhood playing video games, with FIFA being a particular favorite. I’d be lying if I said I was a model student; I was frequently “strategically” skipping courses to conquer virtual soccer fields.

But it was in those virtual worlds that my journey to a creative career truly began. Those countless hours of gaming sparked my curiosity, and I started working on some side projects, which gradually transformed into a deep passion for game development. I realized that I wanted to be a part of an industry that seamlessly blends art, creativity, and cutting-edge technology to create immersive, interactive experiences.

My first taste of the game development world came in 2017, and it was an eye-opening experience. Going from a player to a maker of games was a long and exciting journey, and it’s a decision I wouldn’t change for the world. I’m still on that journey, eagerly anticipating the next destination and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Well, it all started with the revelation that they actually PAY you to make games! I was 19, mind blown, and from that moment on, I became a research ninja, soaking up every bit of information about game design, art, and programming. You know, the usual teenage stuff!

I decided to dive into design because it let me dabble in both art and programming without going completely insane trying to master everything. Let’s face it, you can’t be a guru in everything, right? My focus? Level design and game production – because why not aim high?

Now, breaking into the game industry? Picture trying to sneak into an exclusive movie premiere. It’s intense, competitive, and there are so many brilliant minds out there creating absolute magic. But hey, I love a good challenge.

As if that wasn’t enough excitement, I also ventured across the seas to become an international student. And now, I’m at Savannah College of Art and Design, sharing my game development wisdom with fellow students. It’s like teaching the unwritten chapters of a really cool book—there’s so much potential and so many adventures yet to be had.

So, my story? It’s that of a kid who crossed oceans to live the dream of virtual worlds. There are twists, turns, failures, and tons of lessons – it’s a rollercoaster, but man, it’s one thrilling ride!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Certainly! If my best friend were visiting Georgia, I’d want to ensure they had a memorable time exploring the best of Atlanta and Savannah. In Atlanta, our adventure would begin at the captivating Georgia Aquarium, where we’d be awed by the diversity of marine life. For a satisfying meal, we’d head to Antico Pizza, a beloved pizzeria serving authentic Neapolitan-style pies.

In Savannah, we’d start by strolling through the picturesque Forsyth Park, enjoying its scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance. A must-visit spot would be the historic Bonaventure Cemetery, where we’d take a hauntingly fascinating tour, delving into the city’s intriguing past.

For a taste of Savannah’s nightlife, we’d head to Alley Cat Lounge, a trendy bar with a speakeasy vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. And of course, no visit to Savannah would be complete without immersing ourselves in its rich history by exploring other historic gems like the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters Museum and the Mercer-Williams House.

To satisfy our pizza cravings, we’d also make a stop at Vinnie Van Go-Go’s, a local favorite known for its delicious slices. These carefully chosen spots would offer my best friend a fantastic blend of Georgia’s history, culture, and culinary delights!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Yes, shoutouts are the Oscars of real life, aren’t they? Well, I have a whole brigade of incredible people and influences that have shaped my journey. First and foremost, I want to thank my family, especially my parents. They’ve been my biggest supporters, and I suspect they might still think I just video games for a living. I should definitely talk to them about it one of these days; the reality could surprise them! My sister (Sindhu) and brothers (Bala and Vaidy) have been my emotional and financial pillars. As an international student, I’ve faced a number of difficulties, and their unwavering support has made all the difference. My brothers, in particular, have been motivators for me, guiding me through the challenges of studying abroad with their sound advice.
Not to mention my squad. We’ve pulled a few all-nighters, not only for assignments but also for those times when a good rant over a beer was absolutely necessary. They’ve been my accomplices, sounding boards, and a constant source of encouragement.
So, here’s to my incredible family and friends – the unsung heroes of my life’s adventure. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for their help; I’d be lost in a virtual world somewhere. Thank you so much, folks!

Website: https://www.vishalvenkat.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishalvenkat92/