300-1 Introduction to Game Design Course

Module 1: Introduction to Game Design

• Lesson 1.1: What is Game Design?
  • Definition and scope
  • The role of a game designer
  • Types of games and genres
• Lesson 1.2: History of Game Design
  • Evolution of games from board games to digital
  • Key milestones and influential games
• Lesson 1.3: The Game Design Process
  • Overview of design phases: conception, development, testing, and release
  • Understanding game development roles and teams

Module 2: Game Mechanics and Dynamics

• Lesson 2.1: Core Game Mechanics
  • Definition and examples (e.g., movement, combat, resource management)
  • How mechanics influence gameplay
• Lesson 2.2: Game Dynamics
  • How mechanics interact to create gameplay experiences
  • Examples of dynamic systems in games
• Lesson 2.3: Balancing and Tuning
  • Techniques for balancing game mechanics
  • Importance of playtesting and iteration

Module 3: Game Design Theory

• Lesson 3.1: Game Design Models and Frameworks
  • Overview of popular models (e.g., MDA – Mechanics, Dynamics, Aesthetics)
  • Applying theoretical frameworks to design
• Lesson 3.2: Player Psychology and Engagement
  • Understanding player motivations and behaviors
  • Designing for different types of players
• Lesson 3.3: Narrative and Storytelling
  • Incorporating story elements into game design
  • Structuring narratives for various game genres

Module 4: Prototyping and Tools

• Lesson 4.1: Creating a Game Prototype
  • The importance of prototyping
  • Techniques for low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototypes
• Lesson 4.2: Game Design Tools and Software
  • Overview of popular tools (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine, GameMaker)
  • Choosing the right tool for your project
• Lesson 4.3: Asset Creation and Integration
  • Basics of creating and integrating assets (art, sound, etc.)
  • Resources for finding or creating game assets

Module 5: Playtesting and Iteration

• Lesson 5.1: Designing Effective Playtests
  • How to set up and conduct playtesting sessions
  • Collecting and analyzing feedback
• Lesson 5.2: Iterating on Game Design
  • Techniques for refining and improving game design
  • Balancing creativity with player feedback
• Lesson 5.3: Preparing for Launch
  • Finalizing design and preparing for release
  • Marketing and community building

Module 6: Case Studies and Industry Insights

• Lesson 6.1: Analyzing Successful Games
  • In-depth case studies of popular games
  • Lessons learned from successful and unsuccessful games
• Lesson 6.2: Trends and Future of Game Design
  • Current trends in the industry
  • Predictions and emerging technologies
• Lesson 6.3: Career Paths in Game Design
  • Overview of different roles and career opportunities
  • Tips for breaking into the industry

Module 7: Capstone Project

• Lesson 7.1: Project Planning and Proposal
  • Defining the scope and objectives of your project
  • Creating a project plan
• Lesson 7.2: Development and Implementation
  • Working on your game design project
  • Regular check-ins and feedback sessions
• Lesson 7.3: Presentation and Reflection
  • Presenting your final project
  • Reflecting on the design process and lessons learned

Additional Resources

• Recommended Reading
  • Books and articles on game design
• Online Communities and Forums
  • Where to find support and network with other designers
• Tutorials and Courses
  • Additional learning resources and advanced topics

Each module can be designed to be self-contained, allowing students to progress through the course at their own pace. Interactive elements, such as quizzes, assignments, and peer reviews, can help reinforce learning and provide practical experience.