Toolchain Introduction

C++ Syntax introduction

Variables and Data types in C++

Memory Pointers

Introduction to C++ in Unreal Engine

Unreal Engine Structure, gameplay framework and build tools

Exposing Variables and functions to Blueprint

Event Delegates & Interfaces

Unreal Engine Code Standards

Data Structures & Handling Data

Linking C++ and Blueprint systems

Common C++ Libraries

Optimisation, Profiling & Packaging

Assessment 1: Research and development of game mechanics and systems built using C++.

Students will evidence research and understanding of C++ by documenting the development of their own gameplay-system framework. This development documentation should include examples of research, planning, iteration, problem-solving in a variety of formats such as screenshots, summaries and short video-clips of work.

Assessment 2: A demonstration of functional C++ systems and mechanics used within a game project.

At the end of the module students will submit a game demo built using their own C++ based gameplay-system framework. This includes project files, demonstration videos and a project description suitable for an online portfolio.

Learning and teaching activities will be delivered through a series of practical demonstrations, example projects and independent study supporting students to create their own C++ gameplay systems. Scheduled sessions will typically include workshops that introduce core programming concepts, examples of C++ systems, development processes and debugging tools that allow students to create a game using C++ within an existing game engine. Students will engage with problem solving activities, project development, and testing sessions that support peer learning and feedback. Independent study will involve recommended reading, research tasks, and ongoing development of project work supported by the resources provided.

1. Plan and develop prototype systems, frameworks and mechanics for a game using a written programming language.

Digital Literacy
Research Skills

2. Apply programming principles and structured problem-solving approaches to create functional and engaging gameplay experiences.

Application & Problem-solving

3. Identify and justify suitable programming approaches to improve performance, efficiency and implementation quality for game-ready systems.

Knowledge & Understanding

4. Manage your own learning by exercising initiative, taking personal responsibility and developing new programming skills independently.

Personal Development & entrepreneurship

Unreal Engine
Visual Studio
Ryder IDE
Game Development Labs

Butler, S. (2023) Game Development Patterns with Unreal Engine 5 : Build Maintainable and Scalable Systems with C++ and Blueprint . First edition. Edited by T. Oliver and C.J. Headleand. Birmingham, England : Packt Publishing Ltd.

Dmitrovic, S. (2020) Modern C++ for Absolute Beginners: A Friendly Introduction to C++ Programming Language and C++11 to C++20 Standards. 1st Edition. Berkeley, CA: Apress L. P. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4842-6047-0.

Li, G. (2023) Unreal Engine 5 Game Development with C++ Scripting : Become a Professional Game Developer and Create Fully Functional, High-Quality Games . First edition. Edited by E.W. Roberts. Birmingham, England : Packt Publishing.

Moon, S.S. (2025) Game Development Concepts in C++ : Elevate Your Skills with Unreal Engine. 1st ed. 2025. Berkeley, CA: Apress. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1007/979-8-8688-1399-3.

Sherif, W. (2015) Learning C++ by creating games with UE4 : learn C++ programming with a fun, real-world application that allows you to create your own games! Birmingham : Packt Publishing.

Intended for students who are confident with Blueprints and want to take their first steps into C++. You will be introduced to C++ terminology, basic programming techniques, and how to seamlessly integrate Blueprints and C++ together. The aim of the module is to create simple gameplay features in C++ and build your own designer-friendly Blueprint nodes. The module provides a starting point for C++ development and encourages further learning into programming techniques, enhancing your portfolio with new skills and enabling you to work alongside programmers and technical designers more effectively.