Module Descriptors
GAMES DESIGN LIVE BRIEF - LEVELS
GDEV60045
Key Facts
Digital, Technology, Innovation and Business
Level 6
30 credits
Contact
Leader: Daniel Bond
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 72
Independent Study Hours: 228
Total Learning Hours: 300
Assessment
  • INDUSTRY LIVE BRIEF PROJECT weighted at 80% - Learning outcome(s) assessed: 1,2
  • ANIMATION PORTFOLIO - VIDEO DEMONSTRATION (10 MINS MAX) 1200 WORDS weighted at 20% - Learning outcome(s) assessed: 3,4
Module Details
INDICATIVE CONTENT
Understanding of industry approaches to level design.

Advanced level design tools.

Application of narrative within level design.

Puzzle design within levels.

Real-world spatial design principles.

Industry interview expectations

Design tests

Portfolio preparation.
ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT DETAILS
Assessment 1 - Industry Live Brief Level Design Project 80%:

A Level Design project artefact which responds to the requirements of the provided Live Brief.

Assessment 2 – Level Design Portfolio 20%:

A portfolio showcasing the created artefact containing:
A video demonstration of the completed project (max. 10 minutes).
Design and development documentation detailing how the brief has been addressed (1200 words)
This is to be presented as a creative online portfolio suitable for employment/freelance work/enterprise.
LEARNING STRATEGIES
Learning and teaching activities will be delivered through a structured blend of scheduled and independent study designed to support a clear learning journey. Scheduled sessions will typically include lectures that introduce theoretical concepts and provide workshop activities that allow students to research games and engage in facilitated discussions. Independent study will involve recommended reading, tasks, and ongoing development of project work supported by the resources provided. Support sessions will also be provided for lecturer engagement and catch-up opportunities.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Demonstrate the ability to interpret and respond to a professional level design brief, producing work that meets design and technical requirements.

Application & Problem-Solving

2. Reflect upon the implementation and development process of the level artefact, informed by collaborative testing practices.

Critical Reasoning and Collaboration
Reflection

3. Communicate the alignment of the created artefact to the provided industry brief clearly using industry-standard documentation and video demonstration.

Communication

4. Develop a level design portfolio which showcases the transferable skills and practice as a level design professional suitable for employment/freelance work/enterprise.

Personal Development & Entrepreneurship
RESOURCES
Digital Academy Forum
Digital Academy Upload
Microsoft Office
Capture Editing Software
Unreal Engine
TEXTS
Pears, M. (2020) Let’s Design: Combat. Independent Publishing. ISBN 979-8646194214.

Totten, C.W. (2019) An Architectural Approach to Level Design. 2nd edn. Boca Raton: CRC Press. ISBN 081536136X.

Frederick, M. (2007). 101 things I learned in architecture school. Cambridge, Mass.: Mit Press.

Mateu-Mestre, M. (2015). Framed ink : drawing and composition for visual storytellers. Culver City, Ca: Design Studio Press.
WEB DESCRIPTOR
In this module, you will demonstrate, apply and further your level design skills by responding to an industry provided brief. You will interpret requirements, develop ideas and create exciting, innovative levels, whilst also learning how to best present your work via an eye-catching and polished portfolio.