Course co-ordinator(s): Dr Stefano Padilla (Edinburgh), Dr Ben Kenwright (Edinburgh), Mohamed Serry (Dubai).
Aims:
To develop programming skills and techniques specific to the area of 2D and 3D computer games
Detailed Information
Course Description: Link to Official Course Descriptor.
Pre-requisites: C++ programming skills.
Location: Dubai, Edinburgh.
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.
Learning Outcomes: Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
- Critical appreciation of game theory and computer games history, genres and impact
- Ability to critically evaluate game design concepts, elements and characters.
- Critical understanding of available tools and their application.
- Knowledge of algorithms for path planning and navigation
- Understanding and knowledge of physically-based modelling in games and selection of techniques.
- Understanding and knowledge of AI techniques in games and selection of techniques.
- Ability to design and implement a small-scale game using 2D and 3D tools.
- Practical skills in graphics and AI programming in the computer games context
Learning Outcomes: Personal Abilities
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
- Representation of, planning for, and solution of problems.
- Ability to plan, design, prototype critically evaluate and communicate a game.
- Ability to think and plan in three dimensions.
- Team working skills.
SCQF Level: 11.
Credits: 15.