F20GP Computer Games Programming

Course co-ordinator(s): Dr Stefano Padilla (Edinburgh), Mohamed Serry (Dubai).

Aims:

To develop programming skills and techniques specific to the area of 2D and 3D computer game.

Detailed Information

Course Description: Link to Official Course Descriptor.

Pre-requisites: C++ programming skills.

Location: Dubai, Edinburgh, Malaysia.

Semester: 2.

Syllabus:

  • Computer Games Design Concepts (Genres, Narrative and Fun).
  • Elements of Game Design (Formal, Dramatic and System Dynamics).
  • Character and World Design.
  • Design Programming Patterns (Input, loops, structures, objects and optimisation).
  • Games Creation Concepts (Conceptualisation, Prototyping, Playtesting).
  • Game-state, simulator, renderer, (hierarchical) controllers.
  • Tools, environments and coding practices– e.g. graphics, C++ and engines.
  • 2D and 3D game programming techniques.
  • Physically-based modelling, particle systems, flocking.
  • Obstacle avoidance and path planning.
  • Group movement.
  • Learning and adaptation in games.
  • Action and behaviour selection.
  • Procedural Generation.
  • Course summary and review.

SCQF Level: 10.

Credits: 15.