Game business and digital economy (5 cr)

Objective

You are aware of different business and revenue models in the game industry such as freemium and premium.
You know the basic principles of how the chosen business model affects game design decisions.
You understand the basic principles of digital economy.
You are aware of the different channels to market and advertise your games.
You understand the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and how to assess the revenue logic.

Content

How does the business model of a game affect game design?
What are the differences between monetisation models such as premium, freemium and paymium?
How are affiliate marketing, microtransactions, subscriptions and merchandising used in games as a source of revenue?
How to write a business plan for your game?
What to take into account when setting up a startup and how to estimate its profitability?

Course material

Material 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 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 the course to agree on development assignments that you will perform at your work place. 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 course includes few live and recorded lectures given by people working in the game industry, possibility to visit Pocket Game Connect in the autumn 2024 and a game company during the semester 2024–2025.

Timing of exams and assignments

No exams. Learning diary needs to be returned both for mid-feedback as well as for final review at the end of the course.

Student workload

Students complete assignments independently. In class, student will receive feedback and deepen their expertise.

Evaluation scale

1-5

Assessment methods and criteria

Learning diary and assignments handed in.

Qualifications

Basic knowledge of game production required.