BackStage Pass vs ICAT bangalore?

I am currently in 4 year of engineering and have started learning game dev in UE. But I need some time to develop a proper portfolio and I don't have the skills to develop a job in my field so in the meantime, I'm planning to join a gaming college for Msc. in game technology.
I know Indian game colleges are not good, but I want like-minded people around me, with who I can develop projects as a team. Mainly buy some more time before job...

reddit.com
u/Gaurang_674 — 1 month ago

Hi everyone,

I’m currently in my final year of BE (AI & DS) in India, graduating in about 2 months. I’ve recently started learning Unreal Engine with C++ and I’m really interested in becoming a gameplay programmer.

Right now, I’m stuck at a decision point and could really use some real-world advice.

My situation:

  • I know basic C++
  • Currently learning Unreal Engine (C++ side, not just Blueprints)
  • Learning through Udemy courses + YouTube tutorials
  • I don’t feel job-ready yet
  • I need ~6–8 months to build skills + projects
  • There’s pressure to start earning soon

Options I’m considering:

1. Self-learning (no degree)

  • Continue learning through Udemy + YouTube
  • Focus fully on Unreal + C++ for next 6–8 months
  • Build portfolio projects
  • Apply for jobs

2. Join an institute / university

Examples I’m considering:

  • AAFT (Diploma / MSc Game Design)
  • Backstage Pass Institute
  • Gamer2Maker
  • Any similar programs
  • Mainly to get time + structured environment
  • But I’m worried they focus more on design/animation than programming

My goal:

👉 Become a gameplay programmer using Unreal C++

My concerns:

  • Is it realistic to get job-ready in ~6–8 months through self-learning (Udemy + YouTube + projects)?
  • Are these institutes actually helpful or mostly marketing?
  • Do they teach real Unreal C++ or mostly Blueprints/design?
  • Is it worth spending lakhs just to “buy time”?
  • How did you personally break into game dev (especially in India)?

What I want from you:

  • Honest experiences (good or bad)
  • What you would do in my situation
  • Any roadmap suggestions

I’m okay with hard work, just don’t want to waste 1–2 years going in the wrong direction.

India-specific advice would be really helpful 🙏

reddit.com
u/Gaurang_674 — 1 month ago