Game Development

This course is designed for aspiring game developers and 3D artists who wish to gain comprehensive skills in 3D modelling and Unreal Engine development. Students will explore the history, theories, and technical skills necessary to create immersive game environments and interactive gameplay mechanics. The course is divided into two main roles: 3D Modeller and Unreal Engine Developer, allowing students to specialise in their area of interest.

Course Content:

• Historical and Theoretical Exploration: Study the evolution of game development, key theories, and milestones that have shaped contemporary game design and technology.

• Idea Development and Iterative Problem Solving: Learn to develop game concepts through iterative problem-solving techniques, including research, prototyping, testing, and stakeholder feedback.

• Technical Skills in 3D Modelling: Create detailed 3D models of characters, environments, and objects using industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya.

• Unreal Engine Development: Develop gameplay mechanics and interactive elements using Unreal Engine’s blueprint system, focusing on creating engaging puzzles and character interactions.

• Professional Knowledge and Practices: Understand the professional roles, relationships, ethics, and project management practices within the game development sector.

• Communication Techniques and Media: Develop skills to effectively communicate game concepts to diverse audiences using various media and formats.

Group Projects

• Freelance Project (Group Project): Work in small groups to create a new and innovative mobile game concept. Develop a detailed game design document and a playable prototype.

• Final Major Project (Collaboration Project): Collaborate on a third-person adventure game set in a post-apocalyptic world. Conduct thorough research, develop creative solutions, and produce a comprehensive game prototype. Present your project through a written report and a practical project outcome.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the historical context and theoretical foundations of game development.

• Develop and refine game concepts through iterative processes.

• Demonstrate proficiency in 3D modelling and Unreal Engine development.

• Create a digital portfolio showcasing technical skills and creative projects.

• Gain insights into professional practices within the game development industry.

• Communicate game concepts effectively to diverse audiences.

• Collaborate effectively on large-scale game development projects.

Assessment

• Digital portfolio with annotated examples of 3D models or Unreal Engine blueprints.

• Research report on historical and theoretical aspects of game development.

• Game concept proposal and documentation of the development process.

• Reflective essay on professional roles and practices.

• Group project presentation and playable prototype.

• Written report and practical project outcome for the final major project.

Additional Requirements
Students are required to bring or purchase external hard drives for storing their projects and portfolios.

Recommended Resources:

• Autodesk Maya for 3D modelling and animation.

• Adobe Substance Painter 3D texturing.

• Unreal Engine documentation and online learning resources.

• Books such as "The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell and "Game Design Workshop" by Tracy Fullerton.