Hey everyone, I'm reaching out to this incredible community for some advice and recommendations on a crucial aspect of my current game development project: video game level design. As I'm delving deeper into the design phase, I've realized that creating engaging and visually captivating levels is more challenging than I initially thought. I could really use some guidance from those of you with experience in this area.

Where to Find Reliable Resources? First off, what are the best platforms or resources for learning about video game level design? Are there specific websites, online courses, or books that you'd recommend for someone looking to enhance their skills in this area? I've come across a few resources, but I'm not sure which ones are worth investing time and money into.

Tools and Software Recommendations
What tools or software do you find indispensable for level design? I've heard about various tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, and Blender, but I'm curious to know which ones are preferred by professionals and why. Any tips on getting the most out of these tools would be greatly appreciated!

Design Principles and Best Practices
Could you share some key principles or best practices that are essential for creating effective and immersive game levels? Understanding the theory behind great level design could really help me improve my work. Are there any common mistakes I should avoid or specific techniques that make a significant difference?

Personal Experiences and Tips
If any of you have personal experiences or tips from your own projects, I'd love to hear about them! What have you learned through trial and error, and what advice would you give to someone just starting out with video game level design?

Thank you all in advance for your insights and recommendations. Your help could make a significant difference in the success of my project, and I truly appreciate any advice you can offer. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and learning from your experiences!