2D graphics: Introduction to image manipulation using a suitable 2D graphics package, colour models and graphical file formats, loading and rendering of 2D sprites

3D graphics: Introduction to the virtual camera/model paradigm, fundamentals of 3D graphics, 3D pipeline and transformations. Use of a suitable API such as OpenGL.

Elements of the game loop: input, movement, collision detection, graphics and sound rendering.

3D Graphics programming: asset loading and storage, input, collision detection, output

C++ programming for game development

Assessment Component 1 – (Learning outcomes 2, 3 and 4)

A 3D Graphical Environment weighted at 70% consisting of:

Development of a 3D environment using a relevant graphics API that demonstrates the ability to render, texture and light objects.


Assessment Component 2 – (Learning outcomes 1)

An Exam weighted at 30% consisting of:

A written exam that covers the theory of graphics programming.

2x 1-hour lectures per week

2x 2-hour practical tutorial sessions per week

1. Demonstrate knowledge of game and graphical concepts, along with the industry context in which games are developed.

2. Use API documentation to research the correct solution pathways for any given technical problem

3. Implement algorithms, data structures and file-handling using a high-level programming language and API to support games and graphics development.

4. Use problem solving skills to design and develop graphical environments for games.

Graphics Library for C++ (OpenGL)

Relevant development environment to support C++ (Visual Studio)

Appropriate workstation device

Version Control (GitHub, Plastic SCM or equivalent)

Digital Academy Forum

Digital Academy Upload

Guha, S (2023) Computer Graphics Through OpenGL: From Theory to Experiments ISBN: 978-1032256986


Kessenich, J (2016) OpenGL programming guide: the official guide to learning OpenGL, version 4.5 with SPIR-V ISBN: 978-0134495491


Hussain, F (2020) Learn OpenGL: Beginner’s Guide to 3D Rendering and Game Development with OpenGL and C++ ISBN: 978-1789340365


Vries, J (2020) Learn OpenGL: Learn Modern OpenGL Graphics Programming in a Step-by-step fashion ISBN: 978-9090332567


Stroustrup, B (2013) The C++ Programming Language ISBN: 978-0275967307

This module will introduce you to the fundamentals of computer graphics in games and graphical programming techniques applied to games.