What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will learn about the design of computer games, the needs of and the issues facing the games industry and their impact upon games design. You will analyse a games problem and create a design for their solution using industry standard methods. In particular you will learn about:
• Principles of good game design
• The elements of game design
• How games are made in the industry and the makeup of the industry
• Professional, legal, social and ethical issues faced by the industry in general, and how they affect the game designer.
How will I learn on this module?
Lectures will introduce you to fundamental concepts, principles and issues. You will then have an opportunity to explore these ideas further through the seminar material, including the opportunity to gain practical experience of games design through game design exercises. In addition, you will also be expected to read about the topics covered in the module and related issues outside of scheduled class time in independent learning. This will strengthen your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter. Every week there will also be discussion sessions covering various topics related to games design and “hot topics” in the games industry.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
In the seminars you will have the opportunity to discuss your work with other students and staff gaining formative feedback to aid your knowledge and understanding. In addition, the eLP (electronic learning portal module) blackboard is used to provide support materials.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Critical application of knowledge and understanding of the techniques to analyse a computer games problem and to design a solution
2. Critical understanding of the professional, ethical, social and legal issues involved in the development of computer games
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Identify and analyse complex games development problems and apply effective methods to design solutions.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. Conduct research and enquiry into computer games issues and communicate their results.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment – this will take form of seminar work, including work on designing games. Your tutors will provide feedback on your work and progress.
Summative assessment - there will be two assessments in this module, both coursework. For the first (assessing MLOs 2 and 4), you will write an individual academic-style paper (2500 words) on a current issue in the games industry and its relevance to games design. For the second (assessing MLOs 1 and 3), you will work in a group to design a solution for a substantial games problem, including the production of relevant documentation. It is expected that each student will contribute to the documentation with a workload of 2500 words. You will be provided with written feedback on both assessments.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
In this module you will learn about the design of computer games, the needs of and the issues facing the games industry and their impact upon games design. You will analyse a games problem and create a design for their solution using industry standard methods.
Course info
UCAS Code GF44
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years full-time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.
Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.
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