Computer Games and Visual Effects

These days computers masquerade as everyday devices such as mobile phones, personal media players, and games consoles. Creating content for these devices is a fascinating area of study, not least because our interactions with them do not typically require a keyboard and mouse.

We explore the boundaries between computing, media, and digital entertainment. For example, we have created new ways of animating game characters by analysing the movements of game players in real-time. To make games more engaging we have found ways to let a game detect the emotional state of the player and respond accordingly. We also explore how audio can communicate rich information to users (e.g. in audio-only games).

Linked to this is research into how aesthetics can inform the design of better, more usable computing devices. All this is supported by mathematical techniques for understanding and creating data visualisation processes, 3D modelling, and animation. Recent research has been conducted with the support of the UK Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), United Kingdom Technology Strategy Board, and a range of UK and international universities.
 
Academic Staff: Dan Hodgson; Dr Yang Jiang; Chris Rook; Dr Hubert Shum; Dr Paul Vickers; Dr Alf Watson; Dr Li Zhang
 
Further Information: Watch some examples of work by Dr Hubert Shum.