Description:

In this course, students are introduced to the business and process of game development, from the concept document to publishing. Students will learn the stages of game development within the context of the often complex relationship between developer, publisher and retailer. The course uses a participatory format emphasizing analytical thinking and problem solving, both key skills for persons seeking a career in the game development industry. 3 hrs lecture/wk.

Associated Costs: These are additional (out-of-pocket) expense considerations that students should expect in addition to the course tuition, fees, and textbooks. $20 to $50.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Prerequisites: NONE

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Describe the stages of game development.
2. Manage the development process.
3. Cite effective leadership skills.
4. Keep a productive team together.
5. Compare and contrast the relationships between the players on the team.
6. Development business plans.
7. Employ strategies for staffing.
8. Obtain financial support and market a game.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. A Brief Introduction to Game Development
   A. Summarize the history of games.
   B. Identify and describe the most important games and genres for each
decade.
   C. Show the influence that prior games have had on modern game
production.
   D. Describe the game industry as it currently stands.
      1. The process
      2. The team

II. Preproduction
   A. Outline the initial stages of game production.
      1. Working prototype
      2. Budget
      3. Timelines
   B. Describe how the preliminary idea of the game is laid out.
      1. Game narrative
      2. Key gameplay mechanics
   C. Illustrate the process of pitching the game to a publishing company
for financing.
      1. Sales sheet
      2. Design document
      3. Interactive demo
      4. Technical design document
      5. Risk analysis
      6. Project plan
      7. Cost forecasts

III. Production
   A. Define the roles of the key developers who take the game from
conception to finished product.
      1. Director
      2. Producer
      3. Level designers
      4. Programmers
      5. Artists
      6. Audio developers
      7. Writers
   B. Describe the testing process to ensure that the game is bug free
before release.

IV. Postproduction
   A. Cover the life cycle of the game after the main production phase is
over.
   B. Locate other territories in which to release the game.
   C. Plan ahead for sequels and expansions of the successful game.

V. Business and Finance
   A. Describe the marketing and public relation strategies to inform the
public of the game and how good it is.
   B. Define emerging alternative finance models.
      1. Mobile games
      2. Multiplayer online games

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be
accomplished using the following methods:

5 Assignments @ 20 points each  50% of grade
2 Examinations @ 50 points each 50% of grade
                               100% of grade

Grade Criteria:
A = 90%
B = 80%  
C = 70%  
D = 60%  
F = less than 60%    

Caveats: NONE

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.