This module focuses on individually made, small-scale game design which can be used to develop and reinforce a theme, message, community focus or brand. The final work will demonstrate practical understanding of information design, digital illustration/video techniques and basic code for on-line interaction or immersive experiences, and should demonstrate good technical skill in some of the relevent technology and techniques. You will be asked to demonstrate your control of the medium and its elements.


You will work on a log-book and digital folder of development work, annotating your progress in:
- De-constructing and constructing games to understand key methods and features
- Immersive scripting for basic games structures and techniques
- Consistant structural graphics (for layout and gameplay)
- Vector graphics and display typography using standard software (eg Illustrator and Flash)
- Gameplay theories
- Basic use of dynamic data for on-line community

The module is based on a set of tutorials and seminars discussing and producing
1) examples of simple game-play and storylines which convey mood and concepts through interaction and participation.
2) Attending and participating in workshops and seminars covering,
Immersive scripting for basic games structures and technique
3) Undertaking theoretical study of interactive narrative in self managed research on
games and web-based interaction

Access to bookable studio space and lecture/seminar room with blackout and digital presentation hardware. Access to digital storage. Computer workshop facilities and appropriate hardware and software. Slide Library. Specialist skills 'modulettes' will be assigned to this module.

Michael, D.R. Serious Games : Games That Educate, Train, and Inform: Course Technology, Incorporated.USA 2005. ISBN: 159200-6221

Koster, R. Theory of Fun for Game Design: Paraglyph, Incorporated. USA Paraglyph; (2004) ISBN: 1932111972

You will be expected to take advantage of the extensive library facilities available within the University, keeping abreast of current developments through appropriate periodicals and software manuals

Coursework is made up of aggregated components using negotiated briefs and content to cover learning outcomes 1-4; a final assessment grade will take an holistic view of the student's achievements across all components.

You will be asked to produce a digital log-file of projects including a date-stamped written analysis and examples of your progress in set projects, and reviews of others' work. [Learning outcomes 1-4]

The log-file will show evidence of:
- appropriate analysis and design decisions that make sense
- designs that show knowledge of screen-based games,and contextual understanding of how the strengths and constraints of the format can be exploited for entertainment, communication or community
- a commitment to develop relevant production skills

The contents of log-files (digital and/or printed) will be:
- Digital captures of examples - annotated for methods of construction and for methods of digital re-interpretation
- Captures of work in progress - with technical construction notes and analysis for next iteration of the image or animation
- Highlighted and annotated tutorial/lecture/demonstration notes, indicating passages relevant to work in progress.


You will make a formal presentation which demonstrates and justifies your completed project work [Learning outcomes 1-4]