"From systems to storytelling—crafting interactive projects through programming and design."
I’m Danielle Tonnessen, a developer and game designer with a strong foundation in programming, web design, and UX. My academic background includes a Master’s in Game Design and a BA in Game Art & Development, equipping me with both technical depth and creative insight.
I specialize in building interactive experiences that merge clean code with thoughtful design. From concept to deployment, I enjoy tackling the full development cycle—whether it’s writing efficient systems, designing intuitive interfaces, or optimizing gameplay mechanics.
Several of my published projects are available on itch.io and Steam, demonstrating my ability to transform ideas into polished, playable formats. Programming is as much my passion as design, and I thrive on creating solutions that are both functional and engaging.
EDUCATION
Lindenwood University
Master’s of Art, Game Design
May 2023
Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor’s of Art, Game Art
June 2021
CERTIFICATIONS
Foundations of User Experience Design, Google
UX Design Process, Google
Intro to Front End Development, Meta
HTML & CSS In Depth, Meta
Programming with JavaScript, Meta
Version Control Software, Meta
DESIGN SKILLS
User-centered Design
Graphics Design
Design Documentation
Concept Development
UI Research
Color and Shape Theory
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Photoshop JavaScript
InDesign HTML
Premiere Pro CSS
After Effects C#
SketchUp Blueprints
Miro Perforce
Unity OpenProject
Unreal Engine Agile
Maya SketchUp
Microsoft Office
SOFT SKILLS
Excellent Written and Verbal Communicator
Detail-Oriented and Organized
Creative Problem-Solver
Strong Critical Thinker
Empathetic Natural Leader
Thoughtful Collaborator
Life-Long Learner
ACHIEVEMENTS & VOLUNTEER WORK
United States Navy Veteran: Top of class in Operations Training School, awarded early promotion; Honorable Discharge
Independently launched a fully-developed walking simulator based on mental health disorder and trauma processing in 2023
Volunteer at Boston Children’s Hospital, The Humane Society, and My Brother’s Table