Games
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| COMP4002 | Computer Science | 4 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- COMP4002
- School
- Computer Science
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
Video games are an ever-growing, multi-billion-pound industry, and game development now encompasses numerous disciplines. This module focuses on topical issues in the design and development of video games as it relates to player experience, and as complex, interactive software systems.
Students will gain knowledge and hands-on experience of the fundamental principles of theoretical and practical game design, and methods for understanding play and players drawn from the field of Human-Computer Interaction. The module considers the design of interactive elements such as game mechanics and how these lead to elements of player experience such as challenge and difficulty.
Students will study the development of games as complex software systems. Specific software design issues to be considered will include the software architecture of games and game engines, and the technical challenges associated with simulation, and networked and multiplayer games.
Students will use appropriate software environments to individually develop a number of prototypical games to explore relevant theoretical design and practical implementation concepts.
Target Students
Available to Level 3 and Level 4 students in the School of Computer Science. This module is not available to students not listed above without explicit approval from the module convenor(s). This module is part of the Human-Computer Interaction theme in the School of Computer Science.
Classes
- Two 1-hour lectures each week for 11 weeks
- One 2-hour computing each week for 11 weeks
Assessment
- 50% Coursework 1: Individual game development and programming assignment. Reassessment is 100% exam.
- 50% Exam 1 (2-hour): Written examination. Reassessment is 100% exam.
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To develop an understanding of the nature and scope of the field of game design.To appreciate and evaluate interactions with video games and the user experience of players.To develop the fundamental design and programming skills required for the prototyping and development of video games, and to give practical experience of designing and testing games.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
- Knowledge and understanding of specific human-computer interaction frameworks for considering video game design and experience.
- Knowledge and understanding of relevant video games and specific features.
Intellectual Skills
- The ability to evaluate and analyse a video game and the experience of play.
- To reflect on, choose and integrate appropriate game elements to create desired interactions and user experiences.
Professional Skills
- The ability to design and prototype video games using an appropriate development environment.
- The ability to solve specific video game implementation challenges using programming.
- To understand appropriate methods for understanding game user experience.
Transferable Skills
- The ability to apply abstract frameworks and concepts to concrete examples.
- The ability to apply creative design principles to create a unique artefact.
- To communicate effectively to others.