INFT3950
10 units
3000 level
Course handbook
Description
Introduces the techniques of designing games for the digital entertainment industry. Students will analyse key game design elements including game genres, concepts, virtual worlds, storytelling, character, user interface design, and core technologies with a focus on the conceptual component of games design. Students will assimilate and expand upon the key theories and practices associated with games design via a series of written and practical projects.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Callaghan
- Semester 1 - 2024
Singapore PSB
- Trimester 2 - 2024 (Singapore)
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an informed knowledge of concepts fundamental to games design
2. Communicate using the terminology specific to games design
3. Describe emerging trends within the games industry
4. Demonstrate an awareness of the ethical dimensions relevant to games design
5. Demonstrate an informed knowledge of screen-based interactivity
6. Critically evaluate using the key concepts involved in games design
7. Describe the processes involved in the games production cycle
8. Produce industry standard documentation towards a games concept proposal
9. Produce a visual presentation towards a games concept proposal.
Content
Topics will be selected from:
- Fundamentals of games
- Historic context of the Computer Games industry
- Game genres and themes
- Narrative and character development
- Generating computer imagery
- Interactivity
- Virtual worlds
- Game concept documentation
- Games production cycle
- Physical simulations
- Game engines
Assumed knowledge
Students are expected to have at least a basic level of computer literacy. This will include basic competency with the use of 'Office' style applications (word processing, presentation and spreadsheet) and internet/web browsers.
Assessment items
Presentation: High Concept Presentation
Report: Game Design Report
Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Research Awareness
Presentation: Game Design Presentation
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement 40% - Must obtain 40% in this assessment item to pass the course.
Contact hours
Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan
Computer Lab-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Lecture-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Trimester 2 - 2024 (Singapore) - Singapore PSB
Computer Lab-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Lecture-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Course outline
- INFT3950 - Semester 1, 2024 (Callaghan) (PDF, 311.8 KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.