SIT251 - Game Programming 1

Unit details

Enrolment modes:	(B, G, X)
EFTSL value:	0.125
Unit chair:	M Hobbs
Prerequisite:	Two SCC/SIT coded units (excluding mathematics units coded SIT19-, SIT29-, SIT39-) or one SCC/SIT coded unit and MSC228 (excluding mathematics units coded SIT19-, SIT29-, SIT39-)
Corequisite:	SIT151
Contact hours:	2 x 1 hour lectures, 1 x 2 hour practical per week
Note: Online teaching methods require internet access. Please refer to the most current computer specifications.

Content

This unit covers all components that contribute to the development of a game from the concept to the design and includes the game balance (rules, penalties, rewards etc.) game theory (designing competitive versus cooperative environments) and the implications of the genre by studying real examples of game design. Students will build the narrative of the game with a storyboard, developing the characters in depth and deciding on the pathway the game will take. After the story is built, students then design the interface design, including the controls and the feedback and whether to follow a single pathway through the game or via an alternative world. This also includes decisions on the number of players, whether there are sub-games or puzzles, mixing learning with progress through the game etc. Students must also design the game within the requirements imposed by the platform in mind. Also covered in this unit are concepts such as online/network gaming and artificial intelligence in gaming, virtual world design. To ensure that the concepts work, students will undertake quality assurance by play testing.

Assessment

Examination 50%, one project 20%, one assignment 15%, practical assessments 15%

Unit Fee Information

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