Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years, which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:  

  • Describe and apply the iterative game design process
  • Create and analyse board game rule systems on a prototype level
  • Explain different subthemes of game design like narrative design, level design etc.

Credits: 5

Schedule: 24.08.2020 - 14.10.2020

Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Miikka Junnila

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Miikka Junnila

Contact information for the course (applies in this implementation):

CEFR level (applies in this implementation):

Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):

Teaching language: English

Languages of study attainment: English

CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD

Content
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    The course covers the bases of theory and methods of game design and includes practical design exercises. The nature of games and game design is discussed, meaningful decisions and balance of chance and skill. Different subthemes inside game design are also covered by visiting speakers, including prototyping, level design, narrative design, mobile game design and game design values. Board game design exercises bring a hands-on aspect to the course.

     

     

Assessment Methods and Criteria
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    The course is assessed based on the written lecture reflections.

Workload
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    One week intensive workshop with lectures and exercises (40h), followed by weekly lectures by industry specialists and group discussions on those (18h). Also independent work, looking into extra materials to go deeper and writing a reflection based on that (24h).

DETAILS

Study Material
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Extra reading materials for those interested:

    Schell, J. The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses. Morgan Kaufmann