Game Development

This module provides a practical foundation in the development of video games, covering modern

technical approaches and development practices. It is delivered in two intensive blocks. Part 1

introduces programming games within an industry standard game engine, focusing on core topics such

as game logic, player interaction, NPC behaviour, and the use of prototyping and playtesting during

development. Part 2 explores a range of advanced topics, such as applications of machine learning and

AI in game development, procedural content generation, and interaction technologies. Each part is

assessed separately, with researchers working in groups to develop playable prototypes.

The module aims to develop the skills of iGGi researchers as both game developers and researchers:

• Build on existing programming skills by providing a technical grounding in programming within a

game engine.

• Enable them to develop their own games, taking a design concept through to a playable

prototype.

• Inform their research with an appreciation of the techniques and practices used in commercial game

development.

• Provide an understanding of some state-of-the-art technical topics in game development, such as

the use of AI in design.

Subject Content:

• Core concepts involved in working with a modern game engine

• Programming techniques and practices in game development

• Agile methods for prototyping and playtesting games

• Techniques for realising autonomous agents and player interactivity

• State-of-the-art applications of AI and interaction technologies within games

Academic and Graduate Skills:

• Prototype a game using a game engine.

• Evaluate and iterate a game through playtesting.

• Apply relevant AI and interaction technologies within their own game development practice.

• Work within a team to develop software to a deadline.

• Describe/justify a development process and outcome in written reports and oral presentations.

• Engage critically with knowledge: adapting and extending programming skills within a specialised context.

• Engage with the professional world: improved understanding of games industry practices

• Learn continuously: respond appropriately to critical player feedback.

• Research capacity and information expertise.

• Bond: Introduction to Game Design, Prototyping, and Development (Addison

Wesley). Hocking: Unity in Action, 2nd edition (Manning).

• Shaker, Togelius & Nelson: Procedural Content Generation in Games

(Springer). Yannakakis and Togelius: Artificial Intelligence and Games (Springer).