Mathematics and physics for game developer (5 cr)

Objective

The student understands the constraints and restrictions of computer calculations
The student knows the basics of vector and matrix algebra as well as different transformations in the 3D-space
The student understands how the center of mass is calculated and how it affects the physics calculation in games
The student can model simple discrete time mechanics programmatically
The student knows how to program a simple collision detection system and how to solve those collisions

Content

Representation of number systems and rounding error in computers
Vectors, matrices, quaternions. Translation, scaling and rotation in 3D-space.
Applying trigonometry for different problems in games.
Kinematics, forces and kinetics.
Collisions, collision detection and resolution

Course material

Lecture slides, exercises, and any other possible web materials will be published on the course's online learning platform. The exercises and their model answers will also be provided to students on the course platform and/or through the Teams channel.

Study forms and methods

The teaching will be conducted as in-person instruction, meaning the student will participate in on-site activities according to the schedule. The learning will be structured around scheduled group meetings and independent learning tasks. The student will complete the required projects and exercises within the timeline and may take part in an exam towards the end of the course.

Alternatively, the course can be completed solely through an exam, or competence can be recognized and accredited in accordance with the unified process used by the institution. Any of these alternative completion methods must be agreed upon with the course instructor.

RDI and work-related cooperation

The course involves programming game features that utilize mathematics and physics, which can be applied in games and simulations. When possible, real-world problems encountered in game programming and in game companies will be addressed, and solutions will be developed using game mathematics and physics techniques.

Timing of exams and assignments

Exercises and assignments must be submitted to the learning platform by the specified deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted. The exercises are assigned each week, and any larger project work is submitted toward the end of the course. The date for the theoretical exam will be agreed upon separately with the students.

Student workload

The scope of the course is 5 credits, which means a total of 135 hours of student work. Of this, approximately 60 hours are guided work and 75 hours are independent work.

Further information

This course is largely based on programming and implementing tools for game mathematics and physics, as well as the use of game engines and other software. Therefore, students are expected to have reasonable programming skills and basic knowledge of using common game engines.

Evaluation scale

1-5

Assessment methods and criteria

Successful completion of the course requires a sufficient number of exercises to be completed successfully and on time, as well as the successful completion of any possible project work and theoretical exam.