The Masters Mix: How to Get Ahead in the Game Industry

When the creative minds behind Homeworld and Minecraft Legends come to campus, you grab a seat, because you know it’s going to be good. In an era where AI and real-time tools are reshaping game development, you want to hear what these creators think.

Founded over a decade ago by Relic Entertainment co-founder Rob Cunningham, Blackbird Interactive (BBI) has become a powerhouse in Vancouver’s gaming scene, known for Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak, Hardspace: Shipbreaker, and co-developing Minecraft Legends. Cunningham and Alex Delamaire, BBI’s Director of Business Development and Strategy, were the perfect guests to launch The Masters Mix, LaSalle College Vancouver’s new speaker series spotlighting top creative voices.

They dove straight into one of the biggest conversations shaping the future of games: AI and creativity. Cunningham shared a grounded, optimistic view: "We’re at the beginning of the beginning. These tools are curiously fascinating for us as developers, but not yet instrumental in our process. There’s nothing to worry about — only excitement for what’s ahead."

Innovation and risk-taking were central to their discussion. Delamaire outlined BBI’s creative approach:

• 1/3 familiar — elements players instantly recognize
• 1/3 new — fresh mechanics, worlds, or systems
• 1/3 personal — what only the creator can bring

"We need to take risks — otherwise we’re just doing what everyone else has done."

Building Creative Ecosystems

Video games aren’t just entertainment — they’re a global force. The worldwide market is projected to reach USD 600.7B by 2030 (Grand View Research, 2025), and nearly all Canadian studios were locally owned in 2022 (97.4%) (Statistics Canada). From mobile and cloud gaming to AR/VR and AAA hits, demand for skilled designers, programmers, and artists has never been higher, and Vancouver sits at the center, home to top studios like Blackbird Interactive and hundreds of indie teams.

How LaSalle College Vancouver Gets You Ahead

• High-demand careers: Choose from one-year accelerated diplomas in Game Design, 3D Modeling and Animation for Games, or Animation, Art and Design, or pursue a bachelor’s degree in Game Programming.
• Industry-driven curricula: Learn coding, engines, and production pipelines studios need today
• Hands-on collaboration: Work across programs, prototyping and iterating like real studios

In short? LaSalle equips students with the skills, real-world experience, and industry access to become the creators, leaders, and visionaries behind the next iconic game.

Already decided? Apply today and start your career in the gaming and creative industries at LaSalle College Vancouver.