Lesson #7
Creating backgrounds
Backgrounds are an integral part of any game, and some of the most recognisable backgrounds are found in 2D games we play on handheld devices or Phones. Take a look at the four backgrounds below, can you identify which games they are from?
Learning Intention
I can design and add a background to my game on Scratch
Success Criteria
I can design a background for my game, considering key elements for the design.
I can import backgrounds on Scratch using the options, Upload, surprise, paint and choose from the library.
Introduction
Explore a range of game backgrounds, discuss what makes them effective parts of the games. The background plays a key role in the game design. Can you design and create a background for your game?
Questions
What are the key elements you must consider when designing a background for your game?
Key learning in the main task video
Background options - Upload, surprise, paint and choose from the library.
Plenary
Split into small groups and establish the skill set in relation to the needs of a game design team. If you were to create a game together, you must have; artist, coder, quality assurance (tester), story writer, game animator. Can you think of anyone else you would need? Possibly talk about sales, marketing, social media teams.
Questions
What skills/subjects do you think are important for this element of gaming? Designing Sprites and backgrounds means art plays a huge role in game design, that means a team creating a game must have a range of skills.
Extending the Learning
Suggested Links to IDL Planner
Create the backstory for a new video game character. (LIT 2-24a, LIT 2-28a)
Create a storyboard for a new video game (LIT 2-24a, LIT 2-28a)
Market a game you have created by producing a poster, leaflet, video advert, meme or vlog as an advertisement. (LIT 2-24a, LIT 2-28a)
Design a new product for the gaming market. This could be a character, a console, a game, a controller or gaming chair. (EXA 2-05a/EXA 2-06a)
Compare the artwork from different genres of video games and share my thoughts and opinions. (EXA 2-07a)
Additional Resources - Art and Design
Digital Doodle with David Litchfield - English.pdfFor Barefoot’s Digital Doodle, David Litchfield has created a 45 min
video with one of the Barefoot team about creating digital illustrations.
The video is suitable for all ages, so whether you teach key stage 1 or 2, we hope your pupils enjoy watching and creating their own illustrations of their favourite book characters, as part of Barefoot’s Digital Doodle.