Elective
Design and Development of Digital Games
This course is about the design and development of digital games. Its purpose is a) to introduce the student to the theoretical background that establishes the research area of game design such as rules, goals, aesthetic decisions and structured worlds, through an interdisciplinary approach to the study of video games and their role as an art medium and b) to introduce an understanding of basic programming principles and practices used in the games industry. In terms of design, a game's development cycle, player profile, game components, concept/design document, storytelling techniques, basic design tools, level design, and evaluation are covered. Regarding development within the course, students will become familiar with case studies and develop simple games (2D and/or 3D) utilising free software as well as previous knowledge and techniques (e.g. character animation), studying their structure, function and influence on society and the arts.