Students will explore topics in the following areas:

The role of engine scripting in games

Introduction to the Unity games engine and Visual Studio

C# fundamentals:

Statements and expressions

Variables and scoping

Conditions

Control flow structures

Methods

Basics of object-orientation

Game Engine scripting fundamentals

GameObjects and Components

Callback functions in scripts

Script parameters (instance variables)

Prefabs, Instantiation and Destruction

Vectors

Object pooling

Assessment Component 1 – (Learning outcomes 1 and 2)

An implemented gameplay solution weighted at 80% consisting of:5

An implemented project which solves an identified gameplay challenge, leveraging C# scripting to build interactive in-game content.



Assessment Component 2 - (Learning outcomes 3 and 4)

Development log and reflection weighted at 20% consisting of:

A development log highlighting key stages of development, strengths and weaknesses, along with a self-reflective critique.

2 x 1-hour lecture per week, focusing on delivering core concepts and taught content.

2 x 2-hour tutorial sessions per week, including live technical demonstrations, guided teaching as well as opportunities for in-person feedback and assistance.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established concepts, principles and their development in terms of using a scripting language

2. Apply underlying concepts and principles of scripting and engine tools to create prototype gameplay mechanics.

3. Reflect critically on the technical development of scripted gameplay mechanics.

4. Analyse existing gameplay examples to support the development of novel gameplay mechanics, specifically in the context of engine scripting.

Appropriate workstation device

Relevant 3D games engine

Version Control (GitHub, Plastic SCM or equivalent)

Digital Academy Forum

Digital Academy Upload

Learning C# 7 by developing games with Unity 2017: learn C# programming by building fun and interactive games with Unity (2017). ISBN: 978-1788478922

Introduction to Game Design, Prototyping, and Development (Third edition). ISBN: 978-0136619949

Learning C# Programming with Unity 3D (Second edition). ISBN: 978-1138336810

Unity From Zero to Proficiency (Foundations) (Fourth edition). ISBN: 9781795806633

C#: A beginner’s guide (2015) ISBN: 978-0071835831

This module considers an introduction to the fundamentals of scripting in C#. Scripting is an important tool in developing interactive and fun experiences for players. You will learn how to leverage the power of C# scripting to technically design and build interactive gameplay solutions.