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Ian Schreiber
The conceptualization, development, and implementation of all the elements that make up an entire game constitutes game design. It includes gameplay, art, sound, and storytelling.
The field of game design has grown significantly in recent years, as video games have become a major form of entertainment with an estimated 3 billion users worldwide.
Embark on an exciting journey into the dynamic realm of game design through this comprehensive course from HP. Remember to obtain your certification for free by using referral code 6FJGJOTX7MFH5M2H
Why learn from us:
Read more
The conceptualization, development, and implementation of all the elements that make up an entire game constitutes game design. It includes gameplay, art, sound, and storytelling.
The field of game design has grown significantly in recent years, as video games have become a major form of entertainment with an estimated 3 billion users worldwide.
Embark on an exciting journey into the dynamic realm of game design through this comprehensive course from HP. Remember to obtain your certification for free by using referral code 6FJGJOTX7MFH5M2H
Why learn from us:
Read more
The conceptualization, development, and implementation of all the elements that make up an entire game constitutes game design. It includes gameplay, art, sound, and storytelling.
The field of game design has grown significantly in recent years, as video games have become a major form of entertainment with an estimated 3 billion users worldwide.
Embark on an exciting journey into the dynamic realm of game design through this comprehensive course from HP. Remember to obtain your certification for free by using referral code 6FJGJOTX7MFH5M2H
Why learn from us:
- HP’s Esports Management and Game Development program – ‘HP Gaming Garage’ – blend’s HP’s technology and innovation heritage with leading academia’s subject matter expertise
- One of the most comprehensive education programs on Esports and Gaming that takes the learner on a complete journey from development to management
- Easy to follow modules with many real-life industry examples and references
- Worldwide recognition and acceptance through verifiable certification on successful completion of each course
- Certification provided free-of-cost through a reference voucher code available on each course page
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/wsbyu4/a
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Course introduction: get introduced to the world of game design and understand the course structure. look at the different tasks required to make a video game and what role game designers play in the same
- Design concepts:delve into the fundamental principles of game design, exploring concepts like aesthetics, dynamics, and mechanics along with processes and vocabulary used in the field
- History of games: trace the evolution of games and learn about gaming as we know it today. also, understand how to research past games relevant to your current project
- Game analysis:learn to dissect and critically analyze existing games, deciphering their mechanics, design elements, and storytelling techniques. get the most value from your play time and learn as much as possible (about what to do and what not to do) from those who have made games before us
- Defining "fun": uncover the elusive nature of "fun" in gaming with the help of a conceptual tool called the mda (mechanics-dynamics-aesthetics) framework. it will help you get answers to questions such as: what is fun, where does fun come from, and why do we find certain things fun (or not fun), in a way that is useful when actually designing games
- Linear storytelling:explore the art of linear storytelling in games, where narrative unfolds in a predetermined sequence
- Nonlinear storytelling: dive into nonlinear storytelling techniques, enabling you to create interactive narratives where player choices influence the unfolding plot
- Dynamics and feedback loops: understand the dynamic interactions within games and how feedback loops contribute to player engagement and progression. the module delves into the intriguing occurrences during gameplay and explores strategies for game designers to craft unforgettable experiences
- Decision-making: learn how to design meaningful decision-making moments that empower players to shape the course of the game. a lot of the "fun" of games comes from these decisions. but what makes these decisions interesting, and how you can make these interactions with players even more engaging is what will be covered in this module
- Kinds of fun/player types:discover different player types and the diverse forms of fun they seek, allowing you to tailor experiences to various audiences
- Level design (pve): one of the most well-known specializations within game design is level design. master the art of crafting captivating single-player levels that challenge, entertain, and immerse players in the game world
- Level design (pvp): explore the intricacies of player versus player (pvp) level design. here, the focus is on creating interesting moments of tension between the players themselves, rather than between players and the game
- Ui/ux design:gain insights into user interface (ui) and user experience (ux) design, optimizing player interaction and ensuring the gameplay experience is intuitive and seamless
- Playtesting: where do you find testers? how do you organize a playtest session to get the most value in the least amount of time? what is the process for running optimal playtest sessions? learn all about the importance of playtesting and how to gather valuable feedback to refine and enhance your game's design
- Game balance: uncover the secrets of game balance, what it is, how it's affected by game designers, and the process designers use to balance their games
- Rapid prototyping: harness the power of rapid prototyping to swiftly iterate and refine game ideas. this helps answer design questions through playtesting before spending considerable resources on creating the final game
- Design documentation: examine the different kinds of documentation writing that designers can be involved with, and learn some tips and tricks about how (and when) to write each kind
- Rules writing: master the art of writing clear and concise game rules that guide players through their journey
- Team communication: learn effective communication techniques to collaborate seamlessly with fellow designers, programmers, and other team members. this is essential because a game designer is the keeper and champion of the vision of the game, and it is their responsibility to engage with the rest of the team and achieve the best output
- Careers in game design: explore potential career paths in the dynamic and evolving field of game design
- Course introduction: get introduced to the world of game design and understand the course structure. look at the different tasks required to make a video game and what role game designers play in the same
- Design concepts:delve into the fundamental principles of game design, exploring concepts like aesthetics, dynamics, and mechanics along with processes and vocabulary used in the field
- History of games: trace the evolution of games and learn about gaming as we know it today. also, understand how to research past games relevant to your current project
- Game analysis:learn to dissect and critically analyze existing games, deciphering their mechanics, design elements, and storytelling techniques. get the most value from your play time and learn as much as possible (about what to do and what not to do) from those who have made games before us
- Defining "fun": uncover the elusive nature of "fun" in gaming with the help of a conceptual tool called the mda (mechanics-dynamics-aesthetics) framework. it will help you get answers to questions such as: what is fun, where does fun come from, and why do we find certain things fun (or not fun), in a way that is useful when actually designing games
- Linear storytelling:explore the art of linear storytelling in games, where narrative unfolds in a predetermined sequence
- Nonlinear storytelling: dive into nonlinear storytelling techniques, enabling you to create interactive narratives where player choices influence the unfolding plot
- Dynamics and feedback loops: understand the dynamic interactions within games and how feedback loops contribute to player engagement and progression. the module delves into the intriguing occurrences during gameplay and explores strategies for game designers to craft unforgettable experiences
- Decision-making: learn how to design meaningful decision-making moments that empower players to shape the course of the game. a lot of the "fun" of games comes from these decisions. but what makes these decisions interesting, and how you can make these interactions with players even more engaging is what will be covered in this module
- Kinds of fun/player types:discover different player types and the diverse forms of fun they seek, allowing you to tailor experiences to various audiences
- Level design (pve): one of the most well-known specializations within game design is level design. master the art of crafting captivating single-player levels that challenge, entertain, and immerse players in the game world
- Level design (pvp): explore the intricacies of player versus player (pvp) level design. here, the focus is on creating interesting moments of tension between the players themselves, rather than between players and the game
- Ui/ux design:gain insights into user interface (ui) and user experience (ux) design, optimizing player interaction and ensuring the gameplay experience is intuitive and seamless
- Playtesting: where do you find testers? how do you organize a playtest session to get the most value in the least amount of time? what is the process for running optimal playtest sessions? learn all about the importance of playtesting and how to gather valuable feedback to refine and enhance your game's design
- Game balance: uncover the secrets of game balance, what it is, how it's affected by game designers, and the process designers use to balance their games
- Rapid prototyping: harness the power of rapid prototyping to swiftly iterate and refine game ideas. this helps answer design questions through playtesting before spending considerable resources on creating the final game
- Design documentation: examine the different kinds of documentation writing that designers can be involved with, and learn some tips and tricks about how (and when) to write each kind
- Rules writing: master the art of writing clear and concise game rules that guide players through their journey
- Team communication: learn effective communication techniques to collaborate seamlessly with fellow designers, programmers, and other team members. this is essential because a game designer is the keeper and champion of the vision of the game, and it is their responsibility to engage with the rest of the team and achieve the best output
- Careers in game design: explore potential career paths in the dynamic and evolving field of game design
Syllabus
Introduction to Game Design
Module 1: Course Intro / Summary
Playing, Analyzing and Understanding Games:
Module 2: Game Design Concepts
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Game Design
Module 1: Course Intro / Summary
Playing, Analyzing and Understanding Games:
Module 2: Game Design Concepts
Read more
Module 3: History of Games & Gaming
Module 4: Game Analysis
Module 5: The MDA Framework
Story Writing in Games
Module 6: Traditional / Linear Storytelling
Module 7: Nonlinear Storytelling
Interaction in Gaming
Module 8: Game Dynamics and Feedback Loops
Module 9: Interesting Decisions
Kinds of Fun and Players
Module 10: Kinds of Fun / Player Types
Subspecialties of Game Design:
Module 11: Level Design (PvE)
Module 12: Level Design (PvP)
User Interface and User Experience:
Module 13: UI/UX Design
Setting Up and Running a Playtest
Module 14: Playtesting
Game Balance and its Tools:
Module 15: Game Balance
Game Prototyping:
Module 16: Rapid Prototyping
Writing and Communicating Plans
Module 17: Design Documentation
Module 18: Rules Writing
Module 19: Communication within Teams
Growth in Game Design
Module 20: Careers in Game Design
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Suitable for beginners interested in learning the fundamentals of game design
Provides a comprehensive overview of game design principles, including gameplay, art, sound, and storytelling
Offers practical insights through real-life industry examples and references
Covers key concepts such as game dynamics, decision-making, and player psychology
Includes modules on level design, UI/UX design, and playtesting
Taught by instructors from HP's Esports Management and Game Development program
Save this course
Save A Complete Guide to Game Design to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
Save
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 A Complete Guide to Game Design with these
activities:
Review core game design concepts
Show steps
Revisit the building blocks of game design to gain a deeper understanding and foundation.
Browse courses on
Gameplay
Show steps
-
Explore the course overview and introduction
-
Review key concepts in gameplay, art, and mechanics
-
Complete practice exercises on fundamental principles
Explore game design software and tools
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software and tools used in game development to enhance your practical skills.
Browse courses on
Game Development Tools
Show steps
-
Research and identify popular game engines and design tools
-
Watch tutorials and complete hands-on exercises to learn the basics of using these tools
-
Apply your knowledge to small projects or exercises
Analyze existing game mechanics
Show steps
Engage in exercises that deconstruct popular games, allowing you to closely examine and understand different mechanics and their impact on gameplay.
Browse courses on
Game Mechanics
Show steps
-
Select several games of various genres
-
Identify and analyze the core mechanics used in each game
-
Evaluate how these mechanics contribute to the overall gameplay experience
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Develop a game pitch
Show steps
Create a compelling pitch for a game idea, outlining its key features, target audience, and potential impact.
Show steps
-
Identify a unique game concept and target audience
-
Draft a game pitch document outlining the game's story, mechanics, and key selling points
-
Practice presenting and refining your pitch
Write a game design document
Show steps
Craft a comprehensive game design document that outlines the vision, mechanics, and implementation plan for your game, fostering clarity and organization.
Browse courses on
Game Design Document
Show steps
-
Gather and organize your ideas and research
-
Create a document outlining the game's purpose, story, mechanics, and visuals
-
Review and revise your document, seeking feedback from peers or mentors
Design and prototype a game level
Show steps
Embark on a hands-on project to create a game level, bringing together your understanding of game design principles and implementation techniques.
Browse courses on
Game Development
Show steps
-
Define the objectives and environment of your game level
-
Design the layout and obstacles using level design principles
-
Create a prototype of your level in a game engine or level editor
Review core game design concepts
Show steps
Revisit the building blocks of game design to gain a deeper understanding and foundation.
Browse courses on
Gameplay
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Explore the course overview and introduction
- Review key concepts in gameplay, art, and mechanics
- Complete practice exercises on fundamental principles
Explore game design software and tools
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software and tools used in game development to enhance your practical skills.
Browse courses on
Game Development Tools
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify popular game engines and design tools
- Watch tutorials and complete hands-on exercises to learn the basics of using these tools
- Apply your knowledge to small projects or exercises
Analyze existing game mechanics
Show steps
Engage in exercises that deconstruct popular games, allowing you to closely examine and understand different mechanics and their impact on gameplay.
Browse courses on
Game Mechanics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select several games of various genres
- Identify and analyze the core mechanics used in each game
- Evaluate how these mechanics contribute to the overall gameplay experience
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Develop a game pitch
Show steps
Create a compelling pitch for a game idea, outlining its key features, target audience, and potential impact.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a unique game concept and target audience
- Draft a game pitch document outlining the game's story, mechanics, and key selling points
- Practice presenting and refining your pitch
Write a game design document
Show steps
Craft a comprehensive game design document that outlines the vision, mechanics, and implementation plan for your game, fostering clarity and organization.
Browse courses on
Game Design Document
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather and organize your ideas and research
- Create a document outlining the game's purpose, story, mechanics, and visuals
- Review and revise your document, seeking feedback from peers or mentors
Design and prototype a game level
Show steps
Embark on a hands-on project to create a game level, bringing together your understanding of game design principles and implementation techniques.
Browse courses on
Game Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the objectives and environment of your game level
- Design the layout and obstacles using level design principles
- Create a prototype of your level in a game engine or level editor
Career center
Learners who complete A Complete Guide to Game Design will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Game Designer
Game Designer
As a Game Designer, you will be charged with designing the gameplay, characters, and overall experience of a video game. You will need to have a strong understanding of the principles of game design, as well as be able to create engaging and fun experiences for players. This course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the game design process, from concept to completion. You will learn about the different elements of game design, including gameplay, art, sound, and storytelling.
Level Designer
Level Designer
As a Level Designer, you will be responsible for creating the levels and environments that players explore in a video game. You will need to have a strong understanding of game design principles, as well as be able to create visually appealing and engaging levels. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Level Designer. You will learn about the different types of level design, as well as the tools and techniques used to create them.
Game Programmer
Game Programmer
As a Game Programmer, you will be responsible for writing the code that brings a video game to life. You will need to have a strong understanding of programming languages and algorithms, as well as be able to work with other members of the development team to create a cohesive and polished product. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Game Programmer. You will learn about the different aspects of game programming, as well as the tools and techniques used to create them.
Game Artist
Game Artist
As a Game Artist, you will be responsible for creating the visual assets for a video game. You will need to have a strong understanding of art principles, as well as be able to use a variety of software tools to create high-quality graphics. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Game Artist. You will learn about the different aspects of game art, as well as the tools and techniques used to create them.
Game Producer
Game Producer
As a Game Producer, you will be responsible for overseeing the development of a video game. You will need to have a strong understanding of the game development process, as well as be able to manage a team of developers, artists, and other professionals. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Game Producer. You will learn about the different aspects of game production, as well as the tools and techniques used to manage them.
Game Tester
Game Tester
As a Game Tester, you will be responsible for playing video games to find bugs and other issues. You will need to have a strong attention to detail, as well as be able to provide clear and concise feedback to the development team. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Game Tester. You will learn about the different types of game testing, as well as the tools and techniques used to conduct them.
Game Writer
Game Writer
As a Game Writer, you will be responsible for writing the story and dialogue for a video game. You will need to have a strong understanding of storytelling techniques, as well as be able to create engaging and memorable characters. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Game Writer. You will learn about the different aspects of game writing, as well as the tools and techniques used to create them.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. Software Engineers need to have a strong understanding of computer science fundamentals, as well as be able to work with a variety of programming languages and technologies.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wsbyu4/a
Reading list
We've selected ten 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
A Complete Guide to Game Design.
Save
This journal publishes articles on game design, game development, and game culture. It good resource for anyone who wants to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in game studies.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the game design process, from concept to completion. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the art and science of game design.
This journal publishes articles on the scientific study of games. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the empirical research that is being conducted on games.
Provides a comprehensive guide to AI for games. It covers topics such as pathfinding, decision-making, and machine learning. It good book for game programmers who want to learn more about how to create AI for games.
Provides a project-based introduction to game design. It guides readers through creating a variety of games, from simple prototypes to more complex projects. It good book for beginners who want to learn how to make games.
Save
Explores the psychological principles that underlie game design. It covers topics such as motivation, emotion, and cognition. It good book for game designers who want to learn more about how to create games that are both engaging and effective.
Save
Provides a practical guide to game design, with a focus on the playcentric approach. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create innovative and engaging games.
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to level design. It covers topics such as level layout, enemy placement, and power-up placement. It good book for game designers who want to learn more about how to create levels that are both challenging and fun.
Save
Practical guide to level design, with a focus on creating engaging and challenging levels for video games. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to design levels that players will love.
Save
Classic work on game design, and it provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of game design. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the theoretical foundations of game design.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wsbyu4/a
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Effort
3 to 5 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
HP
Instructor
Ian Schreiber
Language
English
Transcripts
English
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
中文
العربية
हिंदी
Türkçe
తెలుగు
Bahasa Indonesia
Kiswahili
Good to know
Suitable for beginners interested in learning the fundamentals of game design
Provides a comprehensive overview of game design principles, including gameplay, art, sound, and storytelling
Offers practical insights through real-life industry examples and references
Covers key concepts such as game dynamics, decision-making, and player psychology
Includes modules on level design, UI/UX design, and playtesting
Taught by instructors from HP's Esports Management and Game Development program
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