Module: GDT5008-20 Indie Game Design

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: James TerKeurst

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.terkeurst@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Critical to the development of any game, whether an independent or AAA title, is a  team consisting of several distinct yet complementary roles. These roles include  technical artist, level designer, narrative designer, programmer and playtester/QA  tester. In this module you develop a 2D game from concept to completion, and in  doing so, engage the function and responsibilities of all key roles to gain an  understanding of the full ‘game development’ ecosystem. 

We begin by analysing and evaluating games of several genres, including some more  unusual titles that you may not have played before. This helps you round your  understanding of common game genres, mechanics and approaches to player  experience, as well an appreciation of how experimental games reimagine or subvert  them. Workshops and studio sessions focus on core skills in the technical and  creative sides of game design. Here you design and develop your 2D game using  industry-standard tools, prototyping methods, iterative design processes and testing  methodologies. This work includes exploration of the capabilities of a game engine.  

Across the process you construct and maintain a Game Design Document (GDD).  This is a comprehensive plan that details all facets of a game development project:  from concept, game art and plot to gameplay, game flow and accessibility. GDD's are  a standard ‘living’ document used in the games industry to organise design and  implementation and ensure that a project remains on track. Using your GDD, you map  out and develop your 2D game - identifying the right tools to suit the task, and  devising creative solutions to overcome design and technical challenges.

2. Outline syllabus

• The game production pipeline - from concept to completion 

• Game analysis through play

• Defining the game concept 

• Game design strategies 

• Rule making and game logic 

• Working with a game engine 

• Scripting 

• Collision detection 

• 2D physics 

• 2D Level design 

• 2D Character design, animation, and rigging 

• Iterative design  

• Playtesting 

• Usability and accessibility

3. Teaching and learning activities

Class hours 

Learning is workshop and studio based, and provides 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 in game development, the best  way to do it is to make games. You should expect to devote plenty of time to  experimenting with the game making techniques and technologies introduced in  class.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Portfolio Game Analysis Presentation (10 minutes, group).

• % Weighting: 20%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Portfolio 2D Game. With supporting games development document.

• % Weighting: 80%