Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit examines the fundamental issues of games development. The history of games and the games industry is studied. A variety of games genre are explained and contrasted. Topics include the different contributions from members of the games development team, the types of hardware used across various platforms for game implementation, the role of games engines, the importance of physics in ensuring realism and the manner in which system analysis can be applied to games development.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit students will:

• be able to describe the history and current status of the games industry;
• be able to discuss a range of common games genres and characteristics/examples of each (eg. RPG, first person shooters, educational, adventure);
• be able to describe the roles of different components of the games development team - audio, design, production, programming, visual arts and business/sales;
• be able to describe the processes used to balance game design in order to enhance game playability;
• be able to apply systems analysis and design principles to the development of games;
• be able to describe several common games engines which are currently in use in the market place and how games are developed based on these;
• be able to explain the role of game physics in areas such as movement, friction, gravity and collision in enhancing realism;
• be aware of the ethical issues involved with games development;
• develop a positive approach to teamwork, seeing game development as a team task;
• given a game scenario, use gameplay balancing techniques to eliminate design flaws and improve player experience;
• be able to create a game level (an interactive environment) using a set game engine;
• using a supplied game engine be able to write scripting code to manipulate actions
• prepare a critical analysis of selected game;
• prepare a design document for a game in the three main areas of user interaction, the internal structure of the game and the program structures which will be required;
• further develop group working skills as a member of a project team.

Assessment

Examination (2 hours): 40%; In-semester assessment: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Derrick Martin

Contact hours

2 hrs lectures/wk, 2 hrs laboratories/wk

Prerequisites

FIT1002 or MMS1802

Prohibitions

MMS2102

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.infotech.monash.edu.au/units/fit2048/