Module: CCO5100-20 - Games Development

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Coral Manton

Module Tutor Contact Details: c.manton@bathspa.ac.uk

This module is a pre-requisite for CCO5101-20 Games Studio.

Please also note that this module is a pre-requisite for the Level 6 module CCO6003-20 Serious Games.

1. Brief description and aims of module:

The term ‘games development’ refers to the process of creating a game. Within this seemingly simple title lays many distinct (yet complimentary) roles that are each critical to the success of any independent or AAA title. These roles include – amongst many others – artist, level designer, narrative writer, programmer and playtester. This module offers a rehearsal of these roles by tasking you to take a set of mini-games from concept to completion.

You start by analysing and evaluating games of several genres – including more usually titles that you may not have played before. This helps you develop an understanding of game archetypes, as well an appreciation of how experimental games reimagine or subvert their key features. You then design games using tried and tested strategies, before migrating to industry standard games engines for the building phase. Finally, you’ll deploy methods for testing gameplay and user experience to help improve the games you make.

2. Outline syllabus:

Topics covered in Games Development include:

• The game production pipeline – from concept to completion

• Game analysis through play

• Defining the game concept

• Game design strategies

• Rule making and game logic

• Terrain building

• Asset generation and management

• Collision detection

• Scripting

• Sound basics

• Playtesting

• Usability

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Class Hours

Learning is workshop/studio based, and provide time for you to develop practical skills with support from your tutors and peers. Sessions also encourage group playtesting of games, both to identify bugs and make suggestions for improvement.

Independent Learning

Industry advice speaks volumes – if you want to work game development, the best way to do is to make games. You should expect to devote plenty of time to experimenting with the game making techniques and technologies introduced in class. We also recommend seeking out and analysing games from a range of genres and release years to help strengthen your understanding of level design, rules/logic and game narrative.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Presentation. Group analysis of an existing game (5 minutes)

• % Weighting: 20%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: 2D Game. With supporting documentation.

• % Weighting: 80%