SHE level 9 SCQF credit points 20 ECTS credit points 10 Module code M3I625714 Module Leader Alan Jack School School of Science & Engineering Subject Applied Computer Games Trimester B (January start)
Summary of content This module introduces students to theory and practice of level and puzzle design in video games. Students will learn how game level architecture influences player behaviour and will be able to structure their game content to achieve design goals. They will learn techniques games designers use to pace player progression and to introduce new mechanics on a level by level or puzzle by puzzle basis. The module covers common design patterns used in action games and puzzle games and emphasises the experience of the player as central to the quality of any game content.
Module details Syllabus arrow_forward This module will cover the following topics: Puzzle Design Puzzles Vs Games History of "Swap Adjacent" games Player Teaching Mechanisms Player Feedback Use of space (collapsing / negative / clarity) Boosters vs Repeatable Actions Communicating Item Differentiation Puzzle Design Patterns Pacing and Difficulty Curves Using Difficulty Curves to Encourage Engagement Generating Content for Puzzle Games Game Mechanic Variations and Combinations Level Design Vs Architecture Architectural Principles of Level Design Grey / Orange Boxing Level Design Goals and Hierarchies Spatial Design Coping with hardware limitations (e.g. line of sight / disk streaming) Gating Mechanisms Area Fencing techniques Player Movement Human Survival Instincts Use of Light and Colour to Guide Player Influencing Player Flow with Architecture Visual Communication Colour Theory in relation to Spaces and Environments 2D and 3D landmarking Navigational Aids Mental Maps Single Player vs Multiplayer Considerations Balancing levels Patterns in First Person Shooter Level Design Creating an Immersive Experience Immersion and Embodiment Use of Audio and Lighting to enhance emotion and tone of environment Narrative, thematic design Environmental storytelling Procedural Generation & Creative Support for Level Design
Learning outcomes arrow_forward On successful completion of this module the student should be able to: 1. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the tools and techniques used to create 2D and 3D levels for games 2. Apply appropriate design patterns and techniques to create content appropriate for a wide variety of game types. 3. Influence player behaviour through use of level architecture and presentation techniques.
Teaching / learning strategy arrow_forward The University 'Strategy for Learning' documentation has informed the learning and teaching strategy for this module. The module material will be introduced through lectures, while practical exercises, based on the lecture material, will be given to students for their laboratory sessions. Tutorials will be used to help explain and elaborate on both the lecture material and the laboratory exercises. Full use will be made of GCU Learn to provide Lecture based and related study materials, along with sample solutions of Tutorial and Laboratory exercises, thus encouraging the development of independent learning and allowing self-reflective feedback on student performance. Staff-based feedback on student performance for submitted work will be provided in line with the University feedback policy, with summative feedback and grades on the coursework assessment utilising GCU Learn. The additional interactive discussion features of GCU Learn will be utilised, as appropriate to the module, to stimulate independent and flexible student learning outwith scheduled class time.
Indicative reading arrow_forward Transferrable skills arrow_forward By the end of this module students will have gained competence in the following key areas: D1 Specialist knowledge and application D2 Critical thinking and problem solving D3 Critical analysis D4 Communication skills, written, oral and listening D6 Effective information retrieval and research skills D7 Computer literacy D8 Self confidence, self discipline & self reliance (independent working) D9 Awareness of strengths and weaknesses D10 Creativity, innovation & independent thinking D12 Appreciating and desiring the need for continuing professional development D13 Reliability, integrity, honesty and ethical awareness D15 Ability to prioritise tasks and time management D16 Interpersonal skills, team working and leadership D17 Presentation skills D18 Commercial awareness
Module structure Activity Total hours Lectures 22 Tutorials 11 Practicals 22 Seminars 0 Independent Learning 127 Assessment 18 Placement 0
Assessment methods Component Duration Weighting Threshold Description Course Work001 100 35 Level Design prototypes and report.