Costikyan

Costikyan is a surname of Armenian origin, commonly associated with individuals in the fields of game design, education, and technology. The name is most notably linked to **Brandon Costikyan**, an American game designer, writer, and educator known for his contributions to the video game industry and his advocacy for ethical and creative practices in game development.

Brandon Costikyan began his career in the early 2000s, working on games such as *The Sims* and *Civilization IV*. He later became a prominent voice in game design through his writing, particularly on platforms like *Gamasutra* and *Kotaku*, where he discussed topics ranging from game mechanics and narrative design to the broader cultural impact of video games. His work often emphasized player agency, emergent gameplay, and the importance of meaningful player choice in game design.

Costikyan is also recognized for his academic contributions, having taught game design at institutions such as the University of Southern California and the Game Design Institute. His teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning, collaboration, and the exploration of unconventional game mechanics. He has authored several books and articles, including *The Art of Failure: An Essay on the Pain of Playing Video Games*, which examines the emotional and psychological aspects of gaming.

Beyond his professional work, Costikyan has been involved in discussions about the ethics of game development, particularly regarding labor practices, intellectual property, and the treatment of game developers. His perspectives have influenced both industry standards and academic discourse on the subject.

While the Costikyan name is primarily associated with Brandon, it may also appear in other contexts, such as in Armenian cultural or historical references, though no widely documented figures share the surname in those domains. His influence in game design and education continues to be felt in both the industry and the broader community of game enthusiasts.