Description:

This course is designed for students to apply the foundations of game design and game programming to a significant original game. Students should work within a team to analyze a problem, develop and present a proposed game design document, build a demonstrable prototype of the game and develop a significant portion of the finished product. Students should also develop a project schedule and present progress information to the class. Students should also develop job search skills and both written and oral communication skills. 3 hrs. lecture, 2 hrs. lab by arrangement/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.

Textbook(s): NONE

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

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

1. Apply the techniques of business, game design, game programming, digital narrative and computer animation to the development of a complete game design document.
2. Conduct a walkthrough of the technical aspects of the game.
3. Create a working prototype to demonstrate a portion of the game.
4. Interview potential users to determine the potential for success.
5. Use the techniques of project management and time management to analyze progress and meet development time deadlines.
6. Work within a group environment to develop a working portion of a complete game.
7. Plan an organized job search effort, including a resume, letter of application, job application form, mock interview, follow-up letter, and networking plan.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Needs Analysis and Feasibility Study
   A. Interview potential users
   B. Investigate game engine alternatives
   C. Write a Project Proposal and Presentation

II. Business Management Techniques
   A. Plan the elements: tasks, resources, dependencies, milestones
   B. Assign team roles: animator, storyteller, programmer, producer
   C. Implement scheduling techniques
   D. Update and report

III. Game Concept Prototype
   A. Demonstrate the game engine 
   B. Script the game prototype
   C. Present the game prototype 

IV. New Game Development
   A. Design the game
   B. Delegate tasks to team members
   C. Design the levels
   D. Conduct progress walkthroughs
   E. Implement the game
   F. Plan for beta testers and support

V. Job Market Preparation
   A. Research local firms
   B. Prepare resume and career objectives
   C. Write cover letters and follow-ups
   D. Employ job search techniques
   E. Practice interviewing techniques

VI. Communications Skills
   A. Written Communications
   B. Verbal Communications
   C. Listening Skills
   D. Using Visual Aids

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

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

50% of grade - Completion of one semester project and Job Search
assignment  
50% of grade - Completion of two examinations 
100% - Total 

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

Caveats:

1. Be an avid player of games.

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.