RPI Degree Program: Critical Game Design, Ph.D.

Area of Research / Interest: Serious Games / Digital Therapeutics

Graduate Studies: Masters of Entertainment Technology, Carnegie Mellon University

Undergraduate Studies: Computer Graphics Technology, Purdue University

Biography: Bryan Kim is a game designer and researcher exploring the therapeutic potential of video games. His work investigates how serious games can support cognitive and physical rehabilitation, with a focus on visual therapy and Theory of Mind training for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. At Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, he developed the “Selective Simulation” framework, a design method that integrates clinical objectives with game mechanics to enhance both usability and therapeutic efficacy. He holds a B.S. in Computer Graphics Technology from Purdue University and an M.E.T. from Carnegie Mellon University. Before shifting his focus to research-driven design, Bryan worked in the games industry, including a production role at Epic Games on Fortnite.  Bryan is now an Assistant Professor of Game Design and Development at Texas A&M University, where his ongoing work bridges game design, healthcare, and human-computer interaction. His long-term goal is to propose design frameworks that not only guide therapeutic applications but also help commercial studios push beyond conventional FPS or RPG mechanics toward more meaningful forms of play.

Links: Portfolio

Email: kimb9@rpi.edu