This module will cover:

- File management
- GUI design
- Integration
- Problem solving
- Procedural content generation
- Project planning methodologies
- Testing methodologies
- User Interaction

Assessment Component 1 – Planning and Design Document 30% [Learning Outcomes 1 and 2]

A reflective development log that demonstrates the research, planning, development and design of the bespoke tool artefact. The development log should also highlight the skills learned throughout, and a personal reflective account of progress throughout development.

Assessment Component 2 – Bespoke Tool Artefact 70% [Learning Outcomes 3 and 4]

Working independently, you will design and develop a bespoke standalone software tool that aids in an identified area of games development. The tool will be assessed on the relevant use of programming to develop the tool, its robustness, the user experience, and its utility in aiding games development.

Learning and teaching activities will be delivered through a structured blend of scheduled and independent study designed to support a coherent learning journey. Scheduled sessions will typically include lectures that introduce core concepts and workshops that allow students to apply techniques, engage in facilitated discussions, and undertake activities focused on problem solving and peer learning. Independent study will involve, recommended reading, research tasks, and ongoing development of project work supported by the resources provided.

1. Identify a potential problem in relation to game or adjacent development and conduct research to identify a solution.

Research Skills

2. Identify appropriate project planning and design methodologies to produce development documentation.

Communication

3. Design and create a bespoke tool to aid games development.

Application & Problem Solving

4. Consider the usability of a system and cater to a target audience.

Knowledge & Understanding

Appropriate workstation device
Version Control software
Digital Academy Forum
Digital Academy Upload
Office 365
Games Lab

Ansari, M.Y. (2011) Game development tools. Boca Raton: A K Peters. ISBN: 978-1568814322

Kok, B. (2021) Beginning unity editor scripting: Create and publish your game tools. ISBN: 978-1484271667

Lightbown, D. (2015) Designing the user experience of Game Development Tools. ISBN: 978-1482240191

Stephens, R. (2019) The modern C# challenge: Become an expert C# programmer by solving interesting programming problems. ISBN: 978-1789535426

Creating tools and unique systems to help improve and streamline the games development process is vital to ensuring consistency of tasks, speed of development and the quality of the game. Tools can range from build systems, procedural content generation, asset creation and more. In this module, you will learn how to identify problems, conduct research, design a solution and ultimately create a bespoke tooling system to aid games developers.