Game design basics (5 cr)

Objective

You have the basic knowledge of game terminology, genres and game design process.
You have a basic understanding of the history of video gaming.
You understand the basic elements of game design (idea/objectives/mechanics/story/structure/characters and levels).

Content

What is a game?
What are the different tasks, roles and jobs in the game production process?
What is involved in the game design process?
What kind of narrative structures are used in games?
How to implement different game mechanics?
What are the basic character types in video games?
How to write various game design documents?

Course material

Lectures, videos, links and tutorials on Learn.

Study forms and methods

Learning route based on a working week

You will attend teaching and guidance sessions as specified in the schedule. Your study routine is determined by the scheduled group sessions and by the self-study assignments.
Learning route that accelerates the studies

If you have acquired prior learning in the subject (fully/partially), contact the teacher in charge prior to the course to discuss whether you have the competence required and what are the methods of demonstrating that competence.

If you are unable to attend all the classes due to other courses, you are required to complete the learning assignments independently.

Work-based learning route

You need to contact the course teacher prior to the course to agree on development assignments that you will perform at your workplace. You are required to prove your learning both in theory and practice by giving a presentation at Game Design show and tell day.

RDI and work-related cooperation

The core focus is on the basic skills. No work-life co-operation.

Further information

Students complete assignments independently with the help of instructions and video tutorials. In class, a student will receive feedback and deepen their expertise.

Evaluation scale

1-5

Assessment methods and criteria

Completed assignments.