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Fran Krause
Welcome! This course is an introduction to the primary concepts of gaming, and an exploration of how these basic concepts affect the way gamers interact with our games. In this course you will understand what defines a “game” and the mechanics and rules behind different types of games. Through four linked assignments you'll learn ways to create and describe a game concept, and specifically what makes a compelling game. This course focuses on the conceptual underpinnings of games, and all assignments can be completed with a pencil and paper – no previous programming knowledge is required.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/5m1qe1/introduction
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week 1: The Simplest Games
This week we start at the beginning: what are the principles of very simple games, like Hangman and tic-tac-toe? How do these games work? Why do people play them? What are the elements that define games and the gaming experience? And finally, what do games have in common with each other, and what sets them apart? In addition to covering the basics and ground rules for this course, we'll conclude this week with a very simple, low-tech assignment: create a game on a single sheet of paper.
Read more
Syllabus
Week 1: The Simplest Games
This week we start at the beginning: what are the principles of very simple games, like Hangman and tic-tac-toe? How do these games work? Why do people play them? What are the elements that define games and the gaming experience? And finally, what do games have in common with each other, and what sets them apart? In addition to covering the basics and ground rules for this course, we'll conclude this week with a very simple, low-tech assignment: create a game on a single sheet of paper.
Read more
Week 2: Rules and Discovery
How does a player learn the mechanics of your game? How do they learn anything about your game? This week we will talk about the rules that define gameplay, and how those rules are communicated to your players. We also discuss the way rules are bent and broken by players.
Week 3: Tell a Story
How does narrative drive a player to start playing your game? Or to finish it? This week we'll look at some of the ways you can make your game more compelling with story, and discuss some of the ways story can drive gameplay forward, or enable a player to make their own way through it.
Week 4: The Friend and the Enemy
What purpose does an enemy serve in a game? What effect does a second player have on two-player games? Can a game work without an adversary or a final goal? We'll address all of those questions in this last week of the class, and work towards finalizing your board game project with characters.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
A good introduction to the fundamental principles and concepts of gaming and how they impact player interactions
Well-structured course with clear learning objectives and a logical progression of topics
Suitable for beginners who have an interest in understanding the mechanics and elements that make games engaging
The course's focus on conceptual underpinnings and its lack of programming requirements makes it accessible to individuals with diverse backgrounds
Provides a solid foundation for further exploration and understanding of game design and development
Taught by experienced instructors with a strong understanding of game design and principles
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Save Introduction to Game Design to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Game design fundamentals explored
Learners say this introductory game design course is fun and engaging. Students appreciate the accessible lectures and assignments which help them practice the foundational concepts needed to design good games. Concepts are reinforced with peer feedback and several reviews emphasize the usefulness of the notes after completing the course.
Feedback from peers is a valuable part of the course
"It challenges you to keep reviewing your initial ideas and use peer feedback to improve the design."
Students find the game design principles entertaining
"Very accessible and entertaining course that focuses on what makes a good game."
"I really enjoyed Fran's style - at the time I thought some of the content was a bit sparse, but on reflection I think "precise" is a better evaluation."
Students enjoy access to notes after completing the course
"I still refer back to my notes from this class."
Students appreciate learning the basics of game design
"Great introduction to game design."
"he really does a good job at highlighting fundamental concepts."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Introduction to Game Design with these
activities:
Review game concepts and mechanics
Show steps
By reviewing the fundamentals of gameplay and the components that make up games, you'll build a stronger foundation for understanding the course material and its implications.
Show steps
-
Read assigned textbook chapters on basic game design concepts
-
Watch introductory videos on game mechanics
Explore game development tools and engines
Show steps
Familiarizing yourself with the tools and technologies used in game development will enhance your understanding of the technical side of game design.
Browse courses on
Game Development Tools
Show steps
-
Research popular game development engines and tools
-
Follow tutorials on using the chosen engine or tool
-
Experiment with creating simple game prototypes
Discuss game design concepts with peers
Show steps
Engaging in discussions with fellow learners can provide you with diverse perspectives and help you refine your understanding of game design principles.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
-
Form study groups or join online discussion forums
-
Share game concepts, ideas, and feedback
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Design a simple game
Show steps
Putting your knowledge into practice by designing a game will solidify your understanding of the principles and elements discussed in the course.
Browse courses on
Game Design
Show steps
-
Brainstorm game concepts aligned with the course topics
-
Sketch out the game mechanics and rules
-
Develop a prototype or playable version of your game
Create a game design document
Show steps
Developing a thorough game design document will help you plan out your ideas, ensuring that your game is well-conceived and has a clear path forward.
Browse courses on
Game Design Document
Show steps
-
Outline the design goals and target audience
-
Describe the game mechanics, story, and characters
-
Include concept art, screenshots, or other visual references
Participate in game design competitions
Show steps
Challenging yourself in game design competitions will test your knowledge, foster creativity, and provide opportunities for feedback and recognition.
Show steps
-
Identify relevant game design competitions or jams
-
Form a team or collaborate with others
-
Develop a game prototype or submission within the competition guidelines
Review game concepts and mechanics
Show steps
By reviewing the fundamentals of gameplay and the components that make up games, you'll build a stronger foundation for understanding the course material and its implications.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read assigned textbook chapters on basic game design concepts
- Watch introductory videos on game mechanics
Explore game development tools and engines
Show steps
Familiarizing yourself with the tools and technologies used in game development will enhance your understanding of the technical side of game design.
Browse courses on
Game Development Tools
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research popular game development engines and tools
- Follow tutorials on using the chosen engine or tool
- Experiment with creating simple game prototypes
Discuss game design concepts with peers
Show steps
Engaging in discussions with fellow learners can provide you with diverse perspectives and help you refine your understanding of game design principles.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form study groups or join online discussion forums
- Share game concepts, ideas, and feedback
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Design a simple game
Show steps
Putting your knowledge into practice by designing a game will solidify your understanding of the principles and elements discussed in the course.
Browse courses on
Game Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brainstorm game concepts aligned with the course topics
- Sketch out the game mechanics and rules
- Develop a prototype or playable version of your game
Create a game design document
Show steps
Developing a thorough game design document will help you plan out your ideas, ensuring that your game is well-conceived and has a clear path forward.
Browse courses on
Game Design Document
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Outline the design goals and target audience
- Describe the game mechanics, story, and characters
- Include concept art, screenshots, or other visual references
Participate in game design competitions
Show steps
Challenging yourself in game design competitions will test your knowledge, foster creativity, and provide opportunities for feedback and recognition.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify relevant game design competitions or jams
- Form a team or collaborate with others
- Develop a game prototype or submission within the competition guidelines
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Game Design will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Game Designer
Game Designer
Game Designers design and develop video games, board games, and other types of games. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of game design, which can be applied to any type of game. Students will learn about the different elements of a game, how to create compelling game mechanics, and how to tell a story through gameplay. This course is ideal for anyone who wants to pursue a career in game design.
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designers (UX Designers) create products that are easy to use and enjoyable to interact with. This course can help UX Designers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the design of user interfaces. Students will learn how to create user interfaces that are both intuitive and engaging, which can lead to improved user satisfaction and increased product adoption.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course can help Software Engineers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the development of software applications. Students will learn how to create software applications that are both functional and engaging, which can lead to increased user adoption and satisfaction.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. This course can help Product Managers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the development of new products. Students will learn how to create products that are both desirable and viable, which can lead to increased product success.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products and services. This course can help Marketing Managers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the development of marketing campaigns. Students will learn how to create marketing campaigns that are both effective and engaging, which can lead to increased brand awareness and sales.
Game Producer
Game Producer
Game Producers are responsible for the overall development and production of video games, board games, and other types of games. This course can help Game Producers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the production of games. Students will learn how to manage game development teams, budgets, and timelines, which can lead to the successful launch of high-quality games.
Game Artist
Game Artist
Game Artists create the visual elements of video games, board games, and other types of games. This course can help Game Artists understand the principles of game design and apply them to the creation of game art. Students will learn how to create game art that is both visually appealing and functional, which can lead to improved game play and increased player engagement.
Game Writer
Game Writer
Game Writers write the story and dialogue for video games, board games, and other types of games. This course can help Game Writers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the writing of game content. Students will learn how to create game content that is both engaging and compelling, which can lead to improved player immersion and satisfaction.
Game Tester
Game Tester
Game Testers play video games, board games, and other types of games to find bugs and ensure that they are working properly. This course can help Game Testers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the testing of games. Students will learn how to identify and report bugs, which can lead to the release of high-quality games.
Game Designer/Programmer
Game Designer/Programmer
Game Designer/Programmers design and develop the gameplay mechanics of video games. This course can help Game Designer/Programmers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the development of game mechanics. Students will learn how to create game mechanics that are both fun and challenging, which can lead to increased player engagement and satisfaction.
Game Audio Designer
Game Audio Designer
Game Audio Designers create the sound effects and music for video games, board games, and other types of games. This course can help Game Audio Designers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the creation of game audio. Students will learn how to create game audio that is both atmospheric and engaging, which can lead to improved player immersion and satisfaction.
Game Level Designer
Game Level Designer
Game Level Designers create the levels for video games, board games, and other types of games. This course can help Game Level Designers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the creation of game levels. Students will learn how to create game levels that are both challenging and fun, which can lead to increased player engagement and satisfaction.
Game Animator
Game Animator
Game Animators create the animations for video games, board games, and other types of games. This course can help Game Animators understand the principles of game design and apply them to the creation of game animations. Students will learn how to create game animations that are both visually appealing and functional, which can lead to improved game play and increased player engagement.
Game Localization Manager
Game Localization Manager
Game Localization Managers are responsible for the localization of video games, board games, and other types of games. This course can help Game Localization Managers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the localization of games. Students will learn how to adapt games to different cultures and languages, which can lead to increased global sales and player engagement.
Game Publisher
Game Publisher
Game Publishers are responsible for the marketing and distribution of video games, board games, and other types of games. This course can help Game Publishers understand the principles of game design and apply them to the marketing and distribution of games. Students will learn how to identify and target potential customers, which can lead to increased sales and profitability.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5m1qe1/introduction
Reading list
We've selected 27 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Game Design.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of game design, covering topics such as game mechanics, player motivation, and game balance. It is an essential read for anyone who wants to understand the principles of good game design.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of game design and development, covering the fundamental concepts, processes, and tools used in the industry. It great resource for students and professionals who want to gain a solid understanding of the field.
Provides a step-by-step guide to the game design process, covering topics such as concept development, prototyping, and playtesting. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to design and develop their own games.
Offers a unique perspective on game design by exploring the different lenses through which games can be viewed, such as the lens of aesthetics, the lens of psychology, and the lens of technology. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to think more deeply about the art of game design.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the essential concepts and techniques used in game development. It great resource for students and professionals who want to gain a solid foundation in the field.
Save
Provides a practical guide to game design, offering a step-by-step process for creating innovative and engaging games. It is an ideal resource for anyone who wants to learn how to design games from scratch.
Save
Comprehensive guide to the design and implementation of game engines. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding how game engines work and how to create their own.
Provides a comprehensive overview of game architecture and design, covering the technical and creative aspects of game development. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding how games are built.
Great resource for those who want to learn the basics of coding and game development. It teaches the concepts of game design in a fun and engaging way. While it may not be as in-depth as other game design books, it great resource for those who are just getting started.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to game development using the Unity game engine.
Save
Provides a practical guide to level design, covering topics such as level layout, pacing, and enemy placement. It great resource for students who want to learn how to create levels that are fun and challenging.
Save
Explores the psychological effects of video games, covering topics such as addiction, violence, and learning. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the impact of video games on our minds and behavior.
Save
Provides an overview of the psychological principles that underlie game design, covering topics such as motivation, emotion, and learning. It valuable resource for students who want to learn how to create games that are psychologically engaging.
This in-depth book explores the technical aspects of game design, focusing on the mechanics and systems that drive gameplay.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the game design process, covering topics such as concept development, prototyping, and testing. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the practical aspects of game design.
Provides a philosophical perspective on game design, exploring topics such as the nature of games, the role of players, and the ethical implications of game design. It valuable resource for students who want to think more deeply about the nature of games.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the game design process, covering topics such as game concept development, level design, and playtesting. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the entire game development process.
This deck of cards provides a quick and easy way to learn about the different lenses through which games can be viewed. It great resource for anyone who wants to think more deeply about the art of game design.
Provides a practical guide to the lean startup methodology, which process for developing and testing new products or services. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the iterative development process and the importance of customer feedback.
Explores the challenges that established companies face when they try to innovate. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the challenges of game design and the importance of innovation.
Save
Provides a practical guide to game design, covering topics such as game mechanics, level design, and storytelling. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the art and science of game design.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of game design, covering topics such as game mechanics, player psychology, and level design. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the core concepts of game design.
This technical book provides an in-depth look at the architecture of game engines, exploring the fundamental concepts and design principles.
Provides a comprehensive glossary of terms used in game design. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the language of game design.
Provides a collection of essays on game design from one of the industry's leading experts. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the philosophy and practice of game design.
Save
Explores the power of intention and how it can be used to create positive change in your life. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the power of the mind and the importance of setting goals.
Collection of essays on game design from a variety of perspectives. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history and theory of game design.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5m1qe1/introduction
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Effort
4 weeks, 2-3 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
California Institute of the Arts
Instructor
Fran Krause
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
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Italiano
中文
العربية
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日本語
हिंदी
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آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Game Design: Art and Concepts. It's comprised of five courses:
- Character Design for Video Games
- Introduction to Game Design (viewing)
- Story and Narrative Development for Video Games
- World Design for Video Games
- Game Design Document: Define the Art & Concepts
Good to know
A good introduction to the fundamental principles and concepts of gaming and how they impact player interactions
Well-structured course with clear learning objectives and a logical progression of topics
Suitable for beginners who have an interest in understanding the mechanics and elements that make games engaging
The course's focus on conceptual underpinnings and its lack of programming requirements makes it accessible to individuals with diverse backgrounds
Provides a solid foundation for further exploration and understanding of game design and development
Taught by experienced instructors with a strong understanding of game design and principles
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